Secrets Magazine - Issue 48 - Winter 2016 by Norma Morton

ISSUE 48 WINTER 2016 PRICELESS

Delicious all day grazing in the enchanted Botanic Gardens on Wombat Hill, Daylesford..

Cover - La Gerche Walk- Suzanne Cooke

CONTENTS 5 7 8 9 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 19 22 25

This Farmer’s Wife Is Making An Impact Alpacas At The Centre Of The Universe Your Health In Your Hands Prani Glow Massage Reflexology For Face And Feet Feldekrais & Bowen Therapy Hard To Find, But Worth The Effort! Creswick’s Own Healing Centre Good Health Services - And The Right Community Attitude How Old Is Too Old For A Tree Change? A Retirement Plan Gone Remarkably Right A Healthy Break Away Body Origami And Aromatherapy For Wellbeing Simply Tomatoes, Simply Delicious The Cri Is Back! Upcoming Exhibitions At Ballarat Art Gallery

27 29 30 32 33 33 34 35 35

Coming Up At Post Office Gallery Bendigo Writers Festival Celebrates Five Years An Alternative Departure Maldon Comes Into It’s Own In Winter Christmas And Dining In An Historic Landmark Restored B&B In Dunolly Discover A Wombat On These New Discovery Tours Secrets Women’s Business Expo – 2017 An Insightful Forester

Regulars 20 36 38

Town On A Plate Winter Astrology Markets

FROM THE EDITOR It doesn’t seem three months since our last issue, or that we have reached the middle of the year. June sees the winter solstice that heralds the lengthening of the days and even though we have only just stepped into winter, warmer days aren’t all that far away. Time has this habit of rushing past us and when we have the chance to catch breath we ask, “well what have we done?” Here at Secrets we have had an interesting three months. I spent a few days in hospital for knee surgery, which has been extremely successful, but a couple of setbacks due to an infection and a virus meant that I was out of action for longer than I had planned. Nevertheless, we have managed to produce another issue and hopefully within that you’ll find some interesting reading. My experience of the hospital system has been thought provoking and I can only sing the praises of our talented and dedicated medical professionals. We are well served in our regional centres and enjoy a health system in Australia that is one of the best in the world and one that needs to be preserved. We also have access to a plethora of complimentary therapy practitioners who – as the word

says – compliment the services provided by our mainstream practices. In fact, 82% of Australians use alternative therapists on a regular basis. In this issue we look at some of the modalities on offer and the therapists who provide excellent services. Amelia James has looked at health care available in our region and her article appears in this issue as does Noelene Gration’s piece about aged care, especially the questions that need to be asked for those thinking of making a tree change, but who have to consider elderly parents and their care. On page 35 you will find some information about an expo that Secrets Magazine will be presenting in 2017 – venue and dates to be confirmed, but more about that later. We hope you enjoy reading our winter edition and look forward to greeting you in spring. Stay safe, stay warm. Sincerely Norma Morton

ISSUE 48 WINTER 2016 Published by

Secrets Magazine ABN 35 535 679 949

Mailing Address Phone Email Web

PO Box 356 Creswick VIC 3363 03 5345 7260 info@secretsmagazine.com.au www.secretsmagazine.com.au

Editor Artwork & Layout Business Development Photography & Administration Contributors

Norma Morton Nick Morton Kerry Mitchell Suzanne Cooke, Geoff Palmer Lyndall McQuinn, Amelia James, Noelene Gration

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.

THIS FARMER’S WIFE IS MAKING AN IMPACT On Melbourne Cup Day 2015 the streetscape of Creswick was given a chic, elegant facelift with the introduction of a gorgeous store bearing the unusual name of The Farmer’s Wife. The brainchild of Bec Mason, this store with its range of stylish women’s fashion wear, men’s and children’s clothing and home wares has brought a new and exciting element to this town that has been experiencing a renaissance over the past few years. John Lennon wrote “Life is what happens to us when we’re making other plans”, not quite Bec’s story as although she knew she wanted to move out of corporate life, she wasn’t sure to what. She was feeling a twinge of empty nest syndrome as her son and daughter had both left home and realised that taking a bit of a risk wouldn’t affect them.

she saw a sign in the window of the dress shop that the owner was retiring – that was it. Bec was still working and living full time in Melbourne, but decided to spend a week in the town to see how she felt about it as a future home. It only took a week. The move was made and she has now happily become a ‘local’.

She and partner John had been visiting Creswick for awhile, but with no real plans to move, however they did set up a small bed and breakfast. While all this was happening (hark back to John Lennon’s words) Bec was finding Creswick people really interesting and she was fascinated by a dress shop that was looking rather sad. Further questions showed that rents were very affordable and when

As she develops the store, she is gaining more confidence in her sense of what will work and gets excited by the responses she receives from customers who come from Melbourne, Ballarat and further afield and has been warmly embraced by the town. Without too much effort, Bec and John, who still commutes to Melbourne for work, have designed a life the envy of many.

Originally, Bec had planned to install a manager, but within a short time of opening, realised she needed to commit fully, so goodbye corporate life, hello country trader. This was a huge shift for someone who had been fully involved in a busy, let’s say frenetic city life, but when asked how she felt driving up the highway, she said smiling “Like I’d just been set free”.

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ALPACAS AT THE CENTRE OF THE UNIVERSE When visiting Daylesford’s Alpaca Passion store you would be forgiven for thinking that the owners were long standing fashionistas, but you would be wrong. Owners and founders of Alpaca Passion are farmers. Keith Wadsworth and partner Liz Robinson are passionate about breeding the highest quality alpacas in Australia. They work extremely hard at breeding animals with ultra fine fleece, which they present at the many agricultural shows around the country. It’s a huge buzz for them when their hard work is rewarded with many of the top prizes. Their lives revolve around these very cute alpacas – the breeding programs, shows and their obsession with the fashion side, interspersed with regular trips to Peru, the home of the alpaca and where the garments are designed and manufactured. Keith and Liz also have a firm hand in influencing the designs for their garments

primarily to suit the Australian physique. According to Keith “Australians have long arms and we have to make sure our garments fit.” In trying to keep abreast with everything they were doing, Liz felt that they were falling short on some aspects, so they ‘head hunted’ their daughter Cassie. After working for David Lawrence Fashion, Cassie moved into merchandising and according to Keith “has an instinctive ability to understand fashion trends.” Daylesford is the ideal location for Alpaca Passion. Keith said “It’s cold and sometimes seems like the centre of the universe. We have people travelling from Melbourne and other areas just to come to the store”. It seems it’s never too early to plan and prepare in the fashion industry and Keith, Liz and Cassie are already preparing for winter 2017. Alpaca Passion is the perfect reason to visit Daylesford.

YOUR HEALTH IN YOUR HANDS At some time or another we all need the services of a GP, practice nurse, hospital and other health professional. Australia’s healthcare system is a multi-faceted web of public and private providers, settings, participants and supporting mechanisms including rehabilitation and palliative care. Our system is vast and expensive and in Australia we are very fortunate to enjoy a health system that is one of the best in the world and needs to be preserved.

the modalities to consider are: Acupuncture/ Acupressure (China 4,000 years), Ayurvedic Medicine (India 4000 years), Homeopathy, (Germany 200 years) traditional Chinese Medicine (4000 years), Massage, Reflexology and Kinesiology, Chiropractic (ancient Egypt), Energetic Therapies, Reiki, Qi Gong, MindBody: includes guided imagery, meditation, relaxation techniques, biofeedback, and hypnosis, Western Herbalism and much more. Many of these complimentary therapies have origins that go back for centuries and in this feature we take a very brief look at only a few of the modalities available and the practitioners who provide them.

However, many Australians, 82% of us in fact, enlist the services of complimentary health providers as an adjunct to traditional medicine. These too involve a plethora of different modalities, but all with the same aim – to assist people to good health. Some of

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PRANI GLOW MASSAGE Before becoming a massage therapist, Bangkok born and raised Mannie worked in advertising until moving to Australia with her Aussie husband five years ago. After working in various Day Spas, Mannie realised her dream of opening her own spa and introducing a new way of pampering and healing with Prani Glow. The word prani is taken from the Sanskrit Prana meaning life force. Mannie uses a variety of locally sourced and Thai herbs in an interesting way by forming the herbs into a ball, placing them into muslin cloth that is then steamed, releasing the oils and aromas that are then rubbed over the client to promote healing and relaxation. Mannie is delighted with the acceptance of the herbal remedies and says she also offers body rubs of sea salt and pink Himalayan salt.

very conscious that she and her assistants offer clients a very personalised and caring service. Leaving Melbourne and moving to Hepburn and now Glenlyon, Mannie says she is now living her dream in a great community in a beautiful country. Long term she sees her practice developing into a retreat and she is constantly working toward her target. Prani Glow Dayspa is on the DaylesfordMalmsbury Road, Glenlyon. For more information visit praniglowdayspa.com.au

Mannie constantly researches the latest techniques in Prani massage and being very hands on, meets the growers who produce the herbs she uses in her practice. She is also

REFLEXOLOGY FOR FACE AND FEET For more than 20 years Maureen Wilson has been passionate about Complimentary Health and to take it to the next level from just participating she has put it into practise. Her main focus is Reflexology along with Facial Reflexology. This modality has been practised as far back as the Egyptians and Chinese many thousands of years ago. There are hieroglyphics in some of the pyramids showing them working on each otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s feet. After completing a Diploma in Reflexology and just recently a Diploma in Facial Reflexology, Maureen has set up a home based business in Woodend. The other modalities that Maureen offers are: Crystal Facial Massage, Energy Balance Massage, Auricular therapy (Ear Candling), Tarot Readings, Liquid Crystal

Therapy, Schuessler Tissue Salts Practitioner. What is Reflexology? It is a holistic, noninvasive treatment that involves the application of pressure using soothing techniques that focuses on reflex points on the feet, hands and face, working on the theory that these reflex points correspond to organs and reflex points in other parts of the body. It can help to relieve stress and tension, improve nerve and blood supply, release energy blocks, help nature achieve balance in the body, counteract fatigue, soothe nervous anxiety and fear, bring about deep relaxation and boost the lymphatic function. For further information or to make a booking contact Maureen on 0427 355 525.

FELDEKRAIS & BOWEN THERAPY FELDENKRAIS METHOD Named after its creator Moshe Feldenkrais (1904 – 1984). The method is a form of somatic education that uses gentle movement and directed attention to improve movement and enhance human function. Because the movements are slow and repetitive you have opportunity firstly to notice how you move and what your habitual patterns are and secondly you have an opportunity to explore other possibilities and make choices about how movement can be improved. The motor cortex part of the brain can integrate the new information which is then absorbed into the whole nervous system. It expresses itself in two forms – the first is through Awareness Through Movement (ATMs) lessons undertaken through group classes and the second is through Functional Integration (FI) as a personal consultation with a practitioner. In an ATM the teacher verbally directs a group of students through a movement sequence. During a one hour lesson attention is directed to the process of each movement and the sensations that are invoked. In this way the Feldenkrais method can enhance coordination and balance, develop more flexibility and does wonders for a persons self image. The one on one nature of FI is a more personally intense

form of ATM. It is a hands-on form of tactile communication where the lesson is tailored to the unique configuration of the individual. BOWEN THERAPY Tom Bowen (1903 – 1982) devoted most of his life to developing and refining his gentle and dynamic modality in Geelong. He had an extraordinary ability to recognise dysfunction in the human body. Bowen therapy consists of controlled movement of soft tissue that stimulates the body to respond. This sequence of moves targets individual needs and when done accurately is gentle and painless and is non invasive, treating the muscles, organs and nerve tissue. It balances and stimulates the body’s energy flow resulting in a sense of overall relaxation and healing. WHO IS NORMAN BESHARA Norman Beshara lives and works in Creswick and has been working in the field of natural therapies since 1990 starting with remedial massage and Bowen therapy in 1992. From 1998 to 2008 he was the director of teaching at the Central Highlands School of Massage. In 2005 he attended a four year course in the Feldenkrais method which opened up new pathways into the understanding of function.

NORMAN BESHARA

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By Amelia James

HARD TO FIND, BUT WORTH THE EFFORT! There are many pressures in modern life; to perform well at work, look after families, maintain beautiful homes and even use leisure time in exciting and meaningful ways. On top of that we are constantly bombarded by images, sounds, information and technology, and are so busy just ‘keeping up’ that it is little wonder many people feel simply worn out. Time away from our everyday lives can help to recharge the batteries, but for many real and lasting improvements require something more. Hidden in the hills of the Wombat State Forest near Daylesford, the Rocklyn Yoga Ashram could be the answer. The yoga retreat began in the 1980’s when an old farmhouse was purchased with a vision of creating an ashram environment dedicated to service and bringing yoga to the community. Today the Rocklyn Ashram is a testament to that vision, offering a range of programs that enable visitors to rediscover inner balance and peace. A collection of purpose built structures sit within a beautiful natural setting alongside an abundant organic garden. It’s simple, peaceful and inviting, and visitors can choose from day visits or retreats that run for a few days, weeks, or even months. For example Yoga Nidra - relaxation and lunch is offered daily, weekend retreats of 1 or 2 nights are offered throughout the year and Mindful Yoga Lifestyle retreats can be booked for anywhere between 5 days and 4 weeks. All Grace Kelly Exhibition

are affordably priced making courses literally available to everyone. Swami Atmamuktananda (Atma), Rocklyn Ashram’s Director, says that visitors come from around the world and all have different needs, but stress and fatigue were the most significant factors. In a time poor world it’s not always easy for people to find time to nurture themselves, or make choices that will lead to a calmer life. The Ashram provides this unique opportunity, to follow the yogic lifestyle and develop mindfulness in a supportive environment. Surrounded by nature and nourished by delicious organic meals, visitors take part in daily yoga practices that encourage a non-judgmental kindness to self, bringing about deep relaxation and reducing negative impacts on mental, physical, emotional and spiritual health. According to Atma the experience is uniquely different from the nearby spa world and some find slowing down and being immersed in peace and quiet to be extremely confronting. The grounds are declared a mobile free zone (it’s conveniently out of range for most providers) and while some can find the digital detox difficult it’s important to experience an authentic retreat from everyday life, inviting yourself to let go and reaping the restorative benefits of the complete Ashram experience. For more information about the Ashram and the courses, visit www.yogavic.org.au

CRESWICKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S OWN HEALING CENTRE Pyramid Connection Healing Centre is dedicated to helping people heal and see the beauty of who they truly are. Located in the main street of Creswick, Pyramid Connection offers many healing services, crystals, jewellery, essential oils, salt-lamps and books. It is a shop that encourages customers to stay longer than usual taking in the aromas and peaceful atmosphere. Owner Cheryl Burridge has a 20 year nursing background and is devoted to assisting the healing journey of her valued clients. Highly regarded for her Remedial Massage, Cheryl also offers Spiritual Healing, Reiki, Regression Therapy and others. A range of psychic and clairvoyant services are available by appointment, including Angel Intuitive

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Readings, Tarot, Psychometry and Palm readings. Beautiful jewellery and crystals light up the Healing Centre and essential oils bring peace and harmony while you browse, or chat with the friendly staff. Pyramid Connection Healing Centre is a perfect starting point to explore the various tools available for a sense of health and well being. Whether you wish to feel better physically, emotionally or spiritually; or you simply LOVE crystals and all things spiritual, Pyramid Connection Healing Centre welcomes you and looks forward to being of service.

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By Amelia James

GOOD HEALTH SERVICES - AND THE RIGHT COMMUNITY ATTITUDE Beyond the gourmet foods, cafe culture and vibrant tourism, the Central Highlands are well known for espousing good health. It is an attitude that pervades the region, where locals value its importance in everyday living and a supportive network of services help to keep communities healthy and humming. At the big end of the health picture recent developments have seen a world class cancer treatment centre added to the Ballarat Base Hospital, along with the addition of a potentially life saving helipad. In nearby Bendigo the $630 Million hospital redevelopment project is due for completion at the end of 2016, promising to provide one of the best regional hospitals in Australia. These projects head up a range of improvements to the region’s health sector where, Federal Member for Ballarat, Catherine King, works hard to ensure that the government keeps its commitments for the area. Being the Shadow Minister for Health is an added bonus, and Catherine is well known for being out and about in her electorate, talking with her constituents and listening to concerns - which often focus on matters of health and wellbeing. While specialist care is predictably concentrated in the largest towns, primary

health care is readily available throughout the region via a string of health centres that provide access to GP’s and other trained medical staff. It is here, at the community level, that the idea of wellbeing really comes into it’s own, with an added focus on prevention and lifestyle as being integral to a well rounded approach to health. Classes in yoga, pilates and tai chi are available under the umbrella of community health, as are art classes, music groups and family story workshops. Pole walking, a Nordic exercise developed as summer training for skiers, is another popular activity. Neighbourhood houses also offer an array of classes, from basketmaking to beekeeping, and everything in between! It’s no secret that being connected and involved in creative and physical activities is immeasurably good for us, but sometimes it can seem like the real secret is finding out just what’s on offer in a local community. The next time you’re searching for something different and engaging to do why not investigate the local community health centre or neighbourhood house and sign up for an activity – it may be the boost to your wellbeing that you have been looking for.

“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

HOW OLD IS TOO OLD FOR A TREE CHANGE? Australia is getting older. No more noticeable than in country areas, compared to the city. The youth drain of young people moving to the city to pursue work and study opposes the shift of many older people relocating to the sea or country for the lifestyle. So what happens to city based elderly parents when the tree changers make the move? Do you organise care from a distance or are there opportunities for them to relocate too? There are aged care rural options for mum and dad, although there is no doubt that most rural areas have fewer options than are available in the city. There are a lot of questions to think about before making a decision. For those who need community care in the home If parents require community care in the home, what services are available locally? Are there alternatives available? If buying or renting a home to live in, what needs to be done to make it accessible? Of these, what modifications can be funded by Government? Are there doctors or a hospital close by? For those who need to live in an Aged Care Facility Is there a waiting list? How long is it? A waiting list often means that someone has to die before the next person is able to move in and this may take quite some time. How far is it to the next available facility? What kind of afterhours medical care is available in the community? Is the older person digital savvy? Make sure that they can access Wi-Fi in the facility in question. You might be surprised at how many older people use a device of some sort or equally surprised at how close you can be to a big city and not have access to a network. Is the country or coastal town accessible by train or bus? Friends still living in the city might be thinking about giving up the car, or no longer drive. Taking a country train trip to visit their friends now in an Aged Care facility can be a fabulous experience for the person in care and for the visitors exploring new scenery.

Does the facility have a leisure/activities co-ordinator? What sort of activities do they have? Metropolitan facilities have a world of experience at their fingertips. That may not be true of a rural facility, or they might have many activities including some associated to the region of great benefit and interest to older people recently moved into the area. What about the family? How much time would be taken up travelling to town to visit your aged family compared to a quick trip down the road? Is it likely that you will need to visit more as time goes on? Would that mean that it is best to spend more quality time with them in the city or in a place you love? A great place to start finding these answers is the My Aged Care website, which was established by the Australian Government to help navigate the aged care system. Visit www.myagedcare.gov.au

A RETIREMENT PLAN GONE REMARKABLY RIGHT When Ian and Merilyn Woodhouse retired from dairy farming just over 10 years ago they were looking for a new challenge. Alpacas, grapes and emu farming were quickly eliminated and they were contemplating growing wildflowers when they saw a program on Black Perigord Truffles, a sought after culinary fungus that grows on the roots of oak and walnut trees. The more they investigated the more convinced they were to give it a try. They settled on Gordon as an ideal location and when they were able to purchase the site of the original Presbytery and Convent, 20 acres right in the town, Oak Hill Truffles was off and running. The property offered the potential climate, soil conditions, drainage and irrigation essential for this notoriously elusive crop but, as Ian explains, the neglected land was covered in blackberries so it was quite a job to transform it into the picturesque truffière that exists today. Remarkably, the couple harvested their first truffles within 5 years, with success continuing every year after. Black Perigord Truffles are counted amongst the world’s most prized delicacies, selling for an extraordinary $2,5003000 per kilo! It sounds a bit like finding gold, however annual yields are relatively modest as it can take quite a few small truffles to make a kilo. Lovers of this gourmet delight

are no doubt relieved that a little goes a long way. Just 20-25 grams is ample to ‘truffle’ an omelet, a cheese and some butter, which will put you out of pocket for about the same amount as a nice bottle of wine. Truffle farming is far from a get rich quick scheme and Ian admits they are still playing catch up on their investment, but their retirement choice has been rewarding in so many ways. They sing the praises of Gordon, a lovely Goldfields town within reach of Melbourne, and say that befriending other truffle farmers in the region has been wonderful. They have travelled to Italy and France to visit truffières and have met hundreds of truffle enthusiasts through cellar door sales, hunts and other truffle events. They even run a B&B at the property, which is booked almost every weekend. To top things off Ian and Merilyn trained a rescue dog, Sally, to help locate the ripened truffles. The black lab cross is now a much loved member of the family and has been recently joined by the newest ‘truffler in training’, Max. The new recruit has a way to go yet to fill Sally’s big truffle hunting paw prints – but with the smell of truffles in the air he is giving it a good go. Discover more about Oak Hill Truffles and their upcoming Truffle Hunt oakhilltruffles.com.au

A HEALTHY BREAK AWAY

Often all you need for a healthy boost in life is a break away - a few days in a different environment where peace and quiet abounds. Perricoota Vines Retreat in Moama provides

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

just that with their exquisite resort where the cares of the world are forgotten with all the accoutrements on hand for health and healing including spas, massage, either in house or at one of the recommended local day spas and beauty salons. At Perricoota Vines regular wellness retreats are offered and to round out the sense of being totally pampered, you can order gourmet deli foods direct to your door. And where is your door? Opening into your own private villa in the 18 acres of lush, landscaped gardens with lakeside views. In spring Perricoota Vines is offering a “spring clean yoga retreat” including two nights’ accommodation, vegetarian meals and snacks, yoga and meditation and even cooking classes. Keep an eye on their website for further details www.perricootavines.com

BODY ORIGAMI AND AROMATHERAPY FOR WELLBEING From a delightful studio nestled in a little arts precinct in the heart of Daylesford is Body Origami. Sandi Jones, a holistic therapist for ten years is the owner and operator of this uniquely named practice. Sandi is an intuitive therapist who utilises aromatherapy to determine what her clients need when they arrive for a treatment. Using essential oils Sandi tunes into her clients needs simply by assessing which aromas appeal to them. When each client arrives, they are asked what they hope to gain from their session and how they want to feel when they walk out the door. Often she senses their needs differ significantly from what they tell her. By offering different oils to smell and choose gives Sandi the indication of what is right for them. Everyone has their own way of working, but using aromatherapy as an indicator is a method that works for her. Origami is a

symbol of peace and an ancient art form that is practiced with patience, detail, intention and awareness and this philosophy Sandi uses both in her work and her life, so naming her practice Body Origami was not a hard choice. As a holistic therapy, Body Origami integrates massage, mindfulness, movement and cleansing to unblock energy, create flow and improve overall wellbeing. With a natural curiosity, Sandi is always studying the body, movement and modalities to enhance health and wellbeing and her innate yearning to explore and experience ways of living gently and in rhythm creates a life of being kind to others as well as herself. Body Origami is at 39 Albert Street, Daylesford Ph: 0423 469 572 www.bodyorigami.com.au

Go Food & Wine Fossicking in the Bendigo Region Make sure you pick up your Food and Wine Fossicking map to discover the best wineries, cider makers, growers, producers, restaurants and cafes from Heathcote to Castlemaine, Maryborough to Boort and everywhere in between.

This map is your perfect tool for exploring the Bendigo Region and includes detailed business listings, touring routes, location markers and a distance legend. For further details on food, wine and tourism experiences throughout the region please visit www.bendigoregion.com Available at the Visitor Centres throughout the Bendigo Region.

SIMPLY TOMATOES, SIMPLY DELICIOUS Tomatoes find their way onto everyone’s table summer and winter. They come in many varieties and are used in very many ways. However, there is a farm in Boort, northern Victoria that has taken the humble tomato to a new level.

are gluten free, have no artificial colour, flavour or preservatives and can maintain a 24-month shelf life. The green tomatoes are hand picked, washed and pickled in salt and vinegar, then marinated in extra virgin olive oil, garlic and oregano.

Starting in 2001, Simply Tomatoes, owned by Marilyn and Ian Lanyon, lifelong farmers in the region began growing tomatoes from a suggestion made by a neighbour who believed the soil and the climate in the area was perfect for growing the delicious fruit. Originally using broad acre to grow red tomatoes for the local canneries, they discovered that with the development of farming technology, one acre of tomatoes grown with chemical free drip irrigation using 30% less water than flood irrigation, they could produce 40 to 60 tonnes of viable tomatoes per acre.

Marketing Manager, Annie Meadows said “the family is very proud that their product is grown and processed on the farm using local workers and sourcing all their oil and other ingredients from the region.” Adding, “all our growing, packaging and marketing is all done at our own farm gate and the product can be purchased at the farm shop.” Simply Tomatoes are also available from Bendigo outlets including Bendigo Wholefoods and is regularly utilised in local restaurants such as the Corner Store Café, Woodhouse, Masons and Mr. Beebe’s. The product is also available online at www.simplytomatoes.com.au

Marilyn and Ian began producing Roma tomatoes, that were picked green for longevity providing a steady supply to the food service industry. When an Italian friend of the family suggested a recipe to Marilyn for tomato preserves, the ensuing experimentation resulted in a range of tomato products that

Simply Tomatoes is also a Tourist Accredited destination where visitors can enjoy a tour of the farm, manufacturing operations and their other product Aussie Wool Quilts. Visitors can also enjoy lunch and afternoon tea to enhance their tour.

TOWN ON A PLATE: THE CRITERION HOTEL The recent renovations at the Criterion Hotel have brought a whole new feel to the venue and town as well as new menu sensations. The food choices will be inspired by award winning Chef Brunno who oversees all of the menus that are part of the Tombstone Hotel Group. Understudy Chef Paul Murphy has worked with Brunno for the last 2 years at the Railway Hotel. Whilst the Railway Hotel offers refined style dining, the Criterion Hotel features pub-style meals with an American twist and Mexican flavours. There are two dining areas at the hotel, a dining room with seating for 100 people with a lovely and private outdoor Beer Garden that seats an additional 50 people.

1 POUND NEW ORLEANS SMOKED BBQ BEEF SHORT RIBS FOR THE MEAT

Salt and Pepper

When the ribs have finished cooking, remove them from the water and cut open the package. Separate the ribs from the juices they left behind.

2 Tbsp Olive oil

FOR THE SAUCE

1 side of short ribs

Cut the short ribs between ribs to create six different large cubes of beef, all with a bone at the centre. Season them heavily with salt and pepper or a simple seasoning of your choice. In a very hot frying pan seal each short ribs.

Place the leftover rib juices in a sauce pan and heat to medium high. Add shallots and thyme, then reduce it for 2-3 minutes or until sticky. Serve with a few radish slices, a silky 50/50 (50% butter/50%potato) mash potato and crispy onion rings.

After that smoke them with apple wood using a food smoking gun for 1 hr. Place them individually in vacuum seal bags. Before sealing add one chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spoon of beef jus (approx. 3Â˝ tbsp.) to each bag. Seal the bag.

The recipe was chosen as it reflects the look and feel of the New Criterion Hotel which is a Castlemaine Icon that has been resurrected to truly reflect the personality of Castlemaine as fun and a bit quirky.

Cook sous vide (in water with a precise temperature) at 63 degrees. Leave for 72 hours.

THE CRI IS BACK! The return of the Criterion Hotel - a local Castlemaine icon - in late March, has proven extremely popular with locals. The venue dates back to 1853 and experienced central Victorian hoteliers Peter and Jacqueline Griffin have restored and updated the venue with two large bar areas, an expansive dining area and beer garden. “We have returned the pub back to its former glory and offer a fun, social and local hotel experience” Mr. Griffin said. “People fondly call this pub ‘The Cri’ and we have been amazed at the level of support from a wide range of age groups. Many have come back to enjoy the memories of younger days and we are attracting a younger audience as well with our two expansive bar areas. The popularity of the pool table, TV screens, deer heads, beer towers, a massive range of the most popular beers on tap and daiquiri machine together with the low and high tables, couches and benches has provided a great space for a drink after work or catch up with friends. There are also interesting food options with pub style meals with an American twist and also some Mexican flavours. Patrons can enjoy some unique flavours in our burger range and street food options in our dining room and beer garden”.

Renovations to the bottom floor of the hotel are complete. Mr. Griffin said that the upstairs areas will also be updated in the future and will house some expansive spaces for a cocktail lounge, functions and conferences. There will also be a Board Room set up that people can hire out for meetings. Mr. Griffin added “We are committed to the Castlemaine area and believe it is a thriving community. We are pleased to offer two unique pub venue options in town with our sister hotel, the Railway Hotel. We hope people will come in and taste for themselves what we have to offer”.

163 Barker Street Castlemaine VIC 3450 I Phone 03 5470 5311 www.criterionhotelcastlemaine.com.au I criterionhotelcastlemaine Closed Mondays to Wednesdays

Pam Hallandal watching Saturday 25 June â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Sunday 14 August

Image: Pam Hallandal The Outsider (detail) 1993 charcoal, pastel and ink on paper. Courtesy of the artist An Art Gallery of Ballarat exhibition

Art Gallery of Ballarat | 40 Lydiard Street North Free entry | Open 10am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5pm | artgalleryofballarat.com.au

The Ultimate Liqueur Experience

Herbal Lore Liqueurs

Visit us on your next trip to Daylesford Complimentary tastings available The Old Butter Factory, Lot 2 Railway Crescent, Daylesford 0438 069 771 - www.herballoreliqueurs.com

UPCOMING EXHIBITIONS – BALLARAT ART GALLERY Pam Hallandal Watching 25 June to 14 August The Last of England: Emigration In Prints 25 june to 14 August Rick Amor Drawing Prize 2016 9 July to 2 October Visitors to the Art Gallery of Ballarat this winter will have the opportunity to see three very different temporary exhibitions, which explore different aspects of Australian culture and society. Pam Hallandal’s early ambition was to be a sculptor, and she established an impressive reputation for her work in sculpture and ceramics, but she decided to make drawing her chief focus from the mid-1960s, and she championed the position of drawing within Melbourne’s training colleges, but her background in sculpture gave her a strong interest in exploring form, space and structure. While better-known for her drawings, Hallandal also produced woodcuts and linocuts, and these are included in this review exhibition. The nineteenth century saw one of the largest mass movements of people in history,

as emigrants flooded out of Europe to seek a better life in the colonies. The Last of England explores how that experience was recorded and reflected in popular prints and illustrated newspapers. The exhibition covers all stages of the experience of those who left their homes, mostly never to return the departure, the rigours of the voyage, the hardships of life for new colonists coming to terms with isolation, and poor communications with those in the old country. Rick Amor, one of Australia’s leading contemporary artists, has sponsored an acquisitive prize for small drawings at the Art Gallery of Ballarat. In sponsoring the prize, Amor says “I hope that this prize gives people one more reason to keep drawing on paper… the most direct and intimate expression of an artist’s sensibility”. The exhibition of shortlisted works includes works by sixty-five artists from across the country.

E X C L U S I V E FA S H I O N

54 Mostyn st | Castlemaine | 3450 | Vic | 03 5470 6014 | www.rike-design.com |

| 25

PITCHA MAKIN FELLAS blackface (realface)

Indigenous faces of Ballarat 29 Jun - 23 Jul 2016 Opening by Tom Mosby, CEO, Koori Heritage Trust, Melb. Tue 5 Jul @ 2.30, for 3pm

BENCHMARK16 27 JUL - 28 AUG 2016 Opening 28 Jul @ 5.30, for 6pm

Heather Shimmen Pretty Boy, 2015 linocut with letter stamp on paper 28 x 38cm

cnr Sturt & Lydiard St Ballarat VIC 3350 Wed to Sat 12-5pm Mon/Tue by appointment federation.edu.au/pogallery +61 (0)3 5327 8615

Jan Stickland Nest I, 2016 drypoint etching Unique State Print 29 x 26cm Courtesy the artist

Arts Academy Undergraduate Visual Arts

COMING UP AT POST OFFICE GALLERY DELVE 16 UNTIL 25 JUN 2016 DELVE 16 showcases recent work by Masters and PhD research candidates in the Faculty of Education and Arts, Federation University Australia. With candidates at varying stages of their research, this exhibition reflects diverse ideas and bold approaches to the students’ individual field of enquiry. This exhibition is also an indicator of the continuing long and proud history of Federation University and predecessor institutions’ Creative Arts programs dating back to the early 1900s. PITCHA MAKIN FELLAS 29 JUN – 23 JUL 2016 blackface (realface): Indigenous faces of Ballarat Myles Walsh, Ted Laxton, Adrian Rigney, Joe Lee, Thomas Marks and Peter-Shane Rotumah, known as the Pitcha Makin Fellas have worked on diverse projects from local schoolhouses, to the Koorie Heritage Trust and to Bunjilaka at the Melbourne Museum. Meeting for the first time in 2013, the group started collaborating on paintings, gradually building relationships with each other and developing a unique style of working. With many impressive achievements, including solo exhibitions, their work has been collected by private and public institutions, including the National Gallery of Victoria. Interested in stories and a range of different issues, from friendship, food, family, country, mystery, politics, football and nature, painting for the Pitcha Makin Fellas is a way to help encourage and develop fine, strong men who work constructively, creatively and carefully for community. Always keen to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Indigenous Australians, for the Pitcha Makin Fellas, the new exhibition at FedUni’s Post Office Gallery, is an opportunity to recognise people from their community and the contributions they make to our country and our society.

BENCHMARK16 27 JUL – 28 AUG 2016 Undergraduate Arts Academy Visual Arts Showcasing new work by our next hot crop of visual artists and designers, this important Arts Academy annual undergraduate exhibition reflects the breadth and diversity of students’ interests, ideas and areas of enquiry, as well as the in-depth levels of their medium and material investigations within a broad range of disciplines, including drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics and design. VIN RYAN: SIGNS OF STRUGGLE 31 AUG - 24 SEP 2016 Vin Ryan works in a variety of media including drawing, photography, video and installation. His work has been described as an attempt at ‘charting his neighbourhood surrounds and airing some of our ‘dirty laundry’. His work is often a very personal attempt to make sense of the urban environments that most of us live in. Interested in ‘accidental aesthetics’, Vin Ryan is drawn to raw materials and often the banal minor details of everyday existence of what he encounters whilst living in the suburbs of Melbourne - street signs, nature strip trees, footpaths, graffiti, found hand written notes or dirty dishes. Vin Ryan’s exhibition and recent work constitute the visual outcomes emerging from a practice-led research project for a Doctoral Award at the Arts Academy, Faculty of Education and Arts, Federation University Australia.

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interviews

BENDIGOWRITERSFESTIVAL.COM.AU

BENDIGOWRITERSFESTIVAL.COM.AU PROUDLY PRESENTED BY

PROUDLY PRESENTED BY

BENDIGO WRITERS FESTIVAL CELEBRATES FIVE YEARS It’s Bendigo Writers Festival’s fifth birthday this year, and they are celebrating by making “much ado about everything.” “It’s also 400 years since Shakespeare died, and that’s a huge milestone, so the fanciful slogan is a nod to the greatest writer ever,” festival director Rosemary Sorensen says. “Storytelling is the festival’s core business, so we’re bringing brilliant story-tellers to town, such as Di Morrissey and Helen Garner, poet Samuel Wagan Watson and Mireille Juchau. “We have grown just a little, by extending the program to a Friday afternoon start, but we know that it’s the friendliness and accessibility of our regional festival that people love, so we’ve tried hard to keep that atmosphere this year too.” The headline event is a live videolink with Julian Assange, who will appear on the big screen at Ulumbarra Theatre on Saturday August 13, to talk with La Trobe University professor Robert Manne. Everyone has an opinion about this very famous Australian founder of Wikileaks, so it’s set to be a big night for Bendigo. The opening night is a lively panel discussion featuring Cheryl Strayed, the author of the American hit memoir Wild. She is joined by Family Law author, Benjamin Law and word guru David Astle to talk about creative risktaking. Ms Sorensen says other new features this year include a Sunday Festival Breakfast

with a buffet and panel discussion about “what makes a good restaurant”, and a closing concert with international singer Noemi Nadelmann making her Australian debut with music theatre classics from Summertime to Sound of Music. “We’re also very pleased that we will be introducing Sam the Story Tram to Bendigo’s famous heritage tram fleet,” she says. “Sam will be taking our youngest readers on a ride through Bendigo, with storyteller Narelle Stone, and lots of picture books to enjoy along the way.” There’s an exhibition of the bird photographs by Newstead blogger Geoff Park on show at The Capital and on Friday evening, before the opening event, there’s a free cabaret-style discussion about new writing. “Our workshops are being run by three well-known writers, Cate Kennedy, Mark Dapin and Benjamin Law, so we’re expecting those to be popular this year,” Ms Sorensen says. “it’s wonderful that so many writers agree to come to Bendigo for our winter weekend, and brilliant that the City of Greater Bendigo, and La Trobe University, are so supportive. “Central Victoria is such a creative region, and this festival certainly confirms that.” More information at www.bendigowritersfestival.com.au

AN ALTERNATIVE DEPARTURE The subject of death is one that 90% of Australians think about, but only 30% talk about, especially with family and friends – the ones who really matter. This was something that concerned Libby Moloney who believed that there was a more holistic approach needed when it came to that final goodbye to loved ones. An accountant for almost twenty years Libby was dreaming of a new career. It had to be one where she was serving others, but still unsure what it would be. The path became clear when she shared with a family a less than satisfactory passing of their loved one. Believing there was a better way, Libby began a pursuit of knowledge about death and dying and discovered there was a huge gap in terms of what was available overseas compared to Australia. It seemed that no one was bringing it all together into one offering – home based death care, natural death care and real

Serving Central Victoria

Holistic Funeral Directors Call 5427 3112 visit NaturalGrace.com.au 30

choices of sustainable products. Simply out of a practical response to a deeply human issue, Natural Grace Holistic Funeral Directors was born. Natural Grace are active in the establishment of natural choices at end of life including advocating for a natural burial ground at Carlsruhe Cemetery, pioneering Victoria’s first shrouded cremation and co-founding the Natural Death Advocacy Network. Libby says; “In general, people have a sense that there are natural options, but there is a lack of awareness about what is possible and without a responsible body where the public can gain this information, they are often left in the dark”. Libby, her partners and staff have created a supportive, integrated, caring service for their clients at one of the most stressful, challenging times of their lives. For more information and to learn of all the services provided by Natural Grace, visit the website www.naturalgrace.com.au

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 FUDGE & ICE CREAMERY

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 11 - 5pm

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 31

MALDON COMES INTO IT’S OWN IN WINTER Maldon is a town to visit at any time of the year, but in winter it comes into it’s own with the Maldon In Winter Festival. With a series of events that can be enjoyed with family and friends during the coldest part of the year, including steam train rides, the Maldon Art show, the Maldon Market, story tellings, knitting demonstrations, craft for the children along with gold mine tours, music, dance, historic walks, Christmas dinners and lunches, a town-wide bonfire and some wonderful mulled wine. These are only just some of the activities to entertain and inform. Maldon boasts one of the best eighteenth century streetscapes in the country with the main commercial centre rich in boutique shops that offer a great opportunity for some

A festival of events to enjoy with family and friends during the coldest part of the year. With steam train rides, Art show, Maldon Market, story tellings, knitting demos, craft for children, gold mine tours, music, dance, historic walks, Christmas food, a town-wide bonfire and wonderful mulled wine.

For further details, contact the Maldon Visitor Information Centre 5475 2569 or www.maldon.org.au

www.maldon.org.au Enquiries 03 5475 2569

For all things Christmas and more!

Open all year round Wednesday to Sunday and most public holidays. Online shopping and laybys welcome.

Grab a coat and hit the road for Maldon. Warm fires, old cottages, great food, specialty shops and much more.

JUNE - JULY

Vanilla Spice

www.vanillaspice.com.au

serious retail therapy. Visit for a day or stay for a weekend – there’s plenty to enjoy in this beautiful old gold rush town. There are plenty of bed and breakfast and other accommodation available to make a stopover even more enticing. Don’t let the winter chills keep you away from this delightful town and especially during the festival.

Wicked Temptations Café / Wine Bar Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Gourmet Coffee & Cakes Open Wednesday to Sunday

Royal Hotel Complex - 18 High Street Maldon

www.wickedtemptations.net.au

CHRISTMAS AND DINING IN AN HISTORIC LANDMARK Rated as one of Victoria’s most historically and architecturally important buildings emerging from the gold rush era of the 1850s, the former Royal Hotel and Theatre in Maldon holds a significant place in the history of Victoria and is now home to two of the town’s favourite businesses. The theatre and hall section of The Royal is home to Vanilla Spice – Maldon’s Christmas shop. This shop defies all logic as it is kept busy the whole year by the demands of “Christmas Collectors”. The entire space is chock-a-block with Christmas paraphernalia from larger than life sculpted characters to the tiniest stars and people come from all around the country to buy. Occupying the hotel section of the building is Wicked Temptations Café & Wine Bar, bringing their excellent meals, wide selection of wines, pastries and all things yummy to satisfy the most demanding diner. The large space allows for more

dining area and is a vast improvement on their former café – just across the road, which was lovely and cosy, but small. Visitors to both Wicked Temptations and Vanilla Spice can interact between the two through the connecting doors from the hotel area to the theatre, this allows freedom of movement to be able to take in and appreciate the craftsmanship of the building’s architects. Relatively few of these significant structures have survived, so to see this building renewed in such a way warms the cockles of your heart.

RESTORED B&B IN DUNOLLY When you visit Dunolly – as you should – you’ll need a place to stay. Right in the heart of town is a restored two bedroom, two-bathroom cottage for self-contained accommodation, with comfortable sitting room and fullyequipped kitchen. Guests are welcomed with quality, locallysourced makings for a delicious breakfast, plus fresh coffee, leaf tea, Jonesy’s milk and rainwater straight from the tank. Of course being at the rear of Wright on Broadway, you can always pop in for a

great coffee, lunch, glass of wine or maybe something for dinner. Elizabeth Cottages is named in honour of Elizabeth Bell, the first “lady of the house”, who arrived as a very young woman in 1857 in the chaotic days of the Dunolly Rush, with her husband James and their first daughter. Together they established a successful general store, grain business and bank in what is now Wright on Broadway. You can catch a glimpse of the young Bell family outside their store in the photo taken in 1861. James made his mark in the political and economic development of the colony of Victoria, with the family roots firmly planted in Dunolly. From local mayor to a minister of the Crown, James left a significant political and business legacy on his retirement from public life after Federation.

DISCOVER A WOMBAT ON THESE NEW DISCOVERY TOURS Have you seen a Wombat in the Wild? This unique tour is a must if you love our wildlife, the bush and just getting out and immersing yourself in the regions amazing forests. Most Australian native animals are nocturnal so if you love looking at wild animals in their natural habitat, this is the tour for you. Join in this fun, informative tour in The Wombat State Forest. Your Guide will pick you up around 8pm (7.30pm in winter) from your accommodation in the Trentham, Lyonville and Daylesford region, then you will drive in a custom 4x4 bus through the forest looking not only for common nosed wombats, but possums, kangaroos, wallabies and owls. This is a great way to spend a Saturday night after dinner and can take a maximum of 11 passengers keeping the tour nice and personal.

WOMBAT DISCOVERY TOURS

Have you seen a wombat? Try our Nocturnal Tours of the Wombat State Forest Pick-up around Daylesford on Saturdays at 8:30PM, return at 10:30PM.

Winter times - 7.30pm to 10pm Price $35 adults $20 children 0484 792 212 www.wombatdiscoverytours.com.au 34

You wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be just sitting back relaxing in the bus, passengers have the job to spot animals from the side of the bus looking for that distinctive flash from their eyes, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a short night walk and weather permitting, amazing Star Gazing. Your guide Scott loves being able to show you these amazing animals and combine this with local history and stories. Every tour is different, and you never know what you will see. Priced at $35 for Adults and $20 for children this fun 2.5hr tour leaves most Saturday nights and you can book online www.wombatdiscoverytours.com.au or call 0484 792 212. Check out and like the Facebook page for recent photos and see the tally of animals found on the last tour.

SECRETS WOMEN’S BUSINESS EXPO – 2017 Secrets Magazine is expanding its horizons. In March 2017 we will be presenting an informative, interactive and intuitive expo for regional women. Secrets Women’s Business – is an expo for regional women and we will be bringing together speakers, presenters and practitioners to offer interactive workshops, lectures and practical tools to help regional women who are looking for answers in today’s hectic world. The expo will also appeal to those who just want to gather with their sisters to enjoy a weekend of trying, tasting and even buying. Regional women walk a different path to their city cousins and the aim of the expo is to bring awareness of difficulties that may affect regional women due to less opportunities, the tyranny of

distance and isolation and other impediments to women finding their full potential. However, in some areas, regional women do have advantages and these will also be explored. Employment, superannuation, health, personal development, housing, working toward retirement (or not) and so much more. Watch this space and our website for ongoing information and updates. We are inviting Expressions of Interest from people who would like to present a talk, workshop or apply for display stand space to promote their products or service. Call 0427 103 217 or email secrets@knowersark.com.au

AN INSIGHTFUL FORESTER The La Gerche Walking Track in the Creswick Regional Park is more than a charming twokilometre ramble through picturesque Sawpit Gully. It is a lesson in reclaiming a degraded landscape and a celebration of the life of littleknown forester John La Gerche. Until recently, few people knew of the quiet, dedicated man who worked in the Ballarat Creswick State Forest between 1882-1897. At the beginning of the La Gerche Walk it is possible to imagine the foothills and gullies of the forest in the early 1880s, ravaged by mining practices. Some way into the forest, the track passes the remains of a 25-kilometre water race built by an elderly Chinese miner in the 1860s. John Le Gerche almost single handedly planted over 100,000 trees, established the first forest nursery and yet saw himself as just a public servant doing his job. Along the way he attracted the ire of officialdom and some towns people, but thankfully he persevered and today we can enjoy the very fruits of his labour.

By Lyndall McQuinn

WINTER ASTROLOGY Winter begins with a T Square in the mutable signs. The make-up of this square is Saturn in Sagittarius, Jupiter in Virgo and Neptune in Pisces. This means all these planets are affecting each other and causing chaos and mayhem in the stories of our lives. This is a time when the bizarre and unlikely blend in an inner dance that leaves us wondering where the boundaries are for our sanity. So expect the unexpected and yes that crazy hunch you have about the circumstances in your life is most likely correct. Saturn and Neptune will continue united until the end of winter and in traditional astrology they can signify anxiety as our boundaries continually continue to dissolve; however they can also signify disciplining your dreams. Jupiter will unhook from this interplay and join forces with Pluto in Capricorn by the end of June and beginning of July. These two: Jupiter and Pluto, are usually indicative of power so this is a chance to empower your dreams and visions in ways that did not seem possible. Both of these planets are in earth signs so there is a chance of hitting the ground and re-establishing situations that seem to be destroyed. All this with winter’s backdrop makes for a challenging period. The most affected signs will be the mutable signs, Gemini, Sagittarius, Pisces and Virgo and the earth signs Capricorn, Virgo and Taurus.

PISCES; this year has been tough and will remain a challenge, but offers opportunities to organize and structure fabulous possibilities if you can hold the focus on your path and not get swept up in the improbable paths of others. Always look for the undercurrent. Question of winter is: So what is going on here? Is it fact or fiction? VIRGO; life is fast and frisky, with confusion at the start of winter and strength and solidity by the end. In fact this could be a time when you feel stronger than you have felt in a

long time as the season goes on. Your saying is; Ground the dream. Sort fact from fantasy. SAGITTARIUS; you seem to be caught up in the establishment and the duty and routines of the humdrum world which is not your favourite place. However, the longer you stay put the more gets built even though it can make you anxious that your life has become limited. GEMINI; you have the back wash of all these energies and as long as you remain dexterous and light of foot you may well be able to dance through the winter taking a piece from everywhere, a new spiritual belief, new structures and a sense of empowerment. Good luck. Dark Moon in Gemini on June 5 is a good time to discard and clear ready for the new. CAPRICORN; the connection of the depth of Pluto to Jupiter is a blast for your sign. It allows you to expand and climb strongly which is what you love to do. You may have a renewed approach to life, but the climbing has never left, so goats, back on the trail and let’s see how far we ascend this winter. Remember it’s not always wise to leave your cards on the table. Look forward to your full moon on July 20th to give you a glimpse through the clouds. CANCER; winter is always your time, as most of the personal planets spend a moment in Cancer over winter. So refresh your communication skills, your beautiful looks and check to see if your heart is in your life especially on dark moon July 4th. Three planets flow into your sign from other water signs this winter, Mars, Neptune and Chiron so be ready to listen to energy levels. Those long lie-ins may be a message from the psychic.

ARIES; is still in the washing machine, with Uranus sprucing up and redecorating your life all rather quickly, but Saturn in Sagittarius can be providing the stability you need for a minute. It could also be the authority figures that keep putting in the blocks to slow you down and remind you that planet Earth is actually your space at present. LIBRA; all seems well except for the unexpected changes that come from others that leave you altering your plans and discombobulated. If left to your own devices, life is great; when dealing with others life is uncertain. Lesson: take your own wise counsel. TAURUS; well you are one of the earth signs with a flow on from Jupiter and Pluto so this allows you to plow on powerfully especially in the business arena. This is a time when you can make an impact and empower the empire. Capricorns Full Moon on July 20 may be a pinnacle point.

LEO; you have the flow of fire energy coming from both Uranus in Aries and Sagittarius Saturn. This allows you to stay in your happy land and use the Uranus to innovate and the Saturn to structure. August 3 dark moon is a review time for you. AQUARIUS; your full moon is at the end of winter, and you are managing to duck the difficult energies of the outer planets. You can use Saturn to help you ground and discipline and Pluto next door to empower, or you can reach into Pisces to rest and heal. Lots of options for your winter break.

Enjoy and blessings ÂŠ Lyndall McQuinn

SCORPIO; a revisit from Mars in your sign through most of winter is a recap of things begun in summer and early autumn. This can give you a lot of energy to push forward on projects or it can bring back conflicts that you thought you had dealt with, but here they are again. I think it might be wise for you also to take a second look at situations to determine just exactly what is lying underneath.

MARKETS

STANHOPE MONSTER GARAGE SALE

Second Sunday of the month from 8.30am Birdwood Avenue, Stanhope Phone 5857 2866 or 5857 2415

A project of Stanhope & District Development Committee

BENDIGO COMMUNITY FARMERS MARKET

WESLEY HILL COMMUNITY MARKET Every Saturday from 7.30am until 1.00pm 149 Pyrenees Hwy, Castlemaine 70+ stalls include a range of food, beverages, clothes, bric-a-brac, and fruit & veggies

Second Saturday of every month - 9am to 1pm

Sidney Myer Place, off Pall Mall, Bendigo. Phone 0498 186 491 www.bcfm.org.au Farmers | Growing | Community | Market CRESWICK MAKERS – ARTISANS IN THE FOREST First Saturday of the month - 9am to 2pm RSL Hall, 60 Albert Street, Creswick, 3363 Phone Sandy 0405 717321 or Deanne 0433 571 689 Showcasing makers, artisans and crafters from Creswick and surrounding areas.

WOODEND COMMUNITY FARMERS MARKET High Street, Woodend 1st Saturday of the month 9am - 1pm Phone 0487 444 090 Call us on 5345 7260 to get your market listed here.

GISBORNE OLDE TIME MARKET

First Sunday of every month 9am to 2pm

Aitken & Hamilton Street Service Roads, Gisborne Over 280 stalls of quality goods. 0431 563 566 info@gisborneoldetimemarket.org.au www.gisborneoldetimemarket.org.au MARYBOROUGH STATION DOMAIN MARKET Fourth Sunday of the month - 8am to 2pm Cnr. Burns & Nolan Streets, Maryborough Phone 0427 326 166 www.facebook.com/StationDomainMarket

Every 4th Saturday of the month. Enquiries: 0407 860 320 38

Second Sunday of every month 9 - 2pm Fountain St & Shire Gardens, Maldon one of Victoria’s most beautiful and historic towns, 1.5 hours from Melbourne.

Facebook.com/maldonmarket www.maldonnc.org.au

Junction is an over 18 venue

Where the rustic charm of colonial days and the comfort of contemporary culture meet.