Touristnews YARRA VALLEY, THE DANDENONGS AND THE RANGES
SUMMER 2013/14
Summer FUN IN THE VALLEY
FREE
1099128-SL50-13
1097506-SL50-13
Australia's Favourite Steam Train Puffing Billy travels through the magnificent forests and fern gullies of the Dandenong Ranges from Belgrave, only east of Melbourne everyday except Christmas Day. one hour ea o H Hang l your legs over the side of the carriage aboard the ttraditional E Excursion Train, or travel first class in our luxury, f l enclosed dining carriages. The daily fu fully ‘St ‘Steam & Cuisine Luncheon Train offers a choice of savouring the three course menu or grazing of ov the Natter Platter. over Bo Bookings are essential for the ‘Steam & Cuisine Lu Luncheon Train’. Pu Puffing Billy is easily accessible by fast electric tra from Melbourne. Tours are offered by all train ma major day tour operators.
1 Old Mon Monbulk Road, Belgrave, VIC 3160 (Melway Ref. Map 75,F10) email: info@pbr.org.au
Telephone: (03) 9757 0700 www.puffingbilly.com.au/touristnews 2 SUMMER 2013
Touristnews
CONTENTS
contents
Days of wine and romance
Accommodation Calendar
51
Cellar Door
EVERYONE has had their summer romance, and mine is spending the hot days and warm nights in the breathtaking Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges. There is no better time of year to drive along the winding roads and look over the sun-kissed vineyards, and even stopping for a cheeky, cold, crisp glass of the sweet stuff. In this edition of Tourist News we discover five reasons to visit Marysville, the tasty delights on offer in Olinda and Sassafras and everything else this beautiful region has to offer in the warmer months. You would have noticed our front cover - and many wouldn’t be surprised that the Yarra Ranges area is one of the fastest growing regions for cycling tourists. The Lilydale to Warburton Trail is one of the country’s most iconic rail trails. The 38km recreation trail for walkers, cyclists and horse riders follows the path of the historical railway line which was established in the 1900s to service the agricultural industry of the time. Those who take the time to enjoy the spectacular views of the Yarra Ranges National Park, pass through beautiful bushland, wineries and farmlands often find themselves coming back again and again. There’s summer concerts, festivals and fetes - so many reasons to visit this wonderful region in summer. We love it here, and hope you do too.
10
48, 50
Dining
24-25
Eltham
21
Fresh From The Farm
34-38
Galleries
49-50
Healesville
31
Markets
43-45
Marysville
6-7
Tourist News Directory
26-27
Yarra Glen
16
32
Touristnews YARRA VALLEY, THE DANDENONGS AND THE RANGES
SUMMER 2013/14
24 Summer FUN IN THE VALLEY
39
Melissa Meehan Editor
EDITOR Melissa Meehan Mail Newspaper Group Phone: 9751 9300 Email: editor@yvnews.com.au ADVERTISING MANAGER Cameron McKenzie Mail Newspaper Group Phone: 5957 3700 Fax: 5957 3777 Email: cameron.mckenzie@yvnews.com.au MANAGING DIRECTOR Paul Thomas Touristnews
46-47
FREE
cover: Taken at the Warburton Trail, Mount Evelyn. PHOTO: KIM CARTMELL ADVERTISING Lynn Dalgleish Phone: 0407 345 958 Email: lynn.dalgliesh@yvnews.com.au DESIGN Mark Dinnie, Sami Lewis Star News Group Creative Services Department Cnr Princes Hwy & Army Rd, Pakenham 3810 Phone: 5945 0666 PUBLISHED BY Yarra Valley Newspapers Pty Ltd 244 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville 3777 PO Box 470 SUMMER 2013 3
WINNER of Tourism Ministers Award
Alowyn Gardens
1097511-BM47-13
2013
a garden for all seasons
Summer at Alowyn brings Roses,Lilliums, Sunflowers and fresh produce from our edible gardens. Open 10.00 – 5.00pm weekends and public holidays (closed Christmas & Boxing Day) or by appointment. Admission fee applies.
1100828-SL50-13
1210 Melba Hwy, Yarra Glen. Melways 267 G9 Phone (03) 9730 2400 Check website for special events: www.alowyngardens.com.au
att H Healesville l illl Greyhound G h d Racing R i Club Cl b Healesville has the perfect set up for a day at the races with plenty of tables, chairs & umbrellas. Contact the club to book one of our great value BBQ packs starting from $50, pick it up on arrival and cook at your leisure. Bigger packs available for larger groups.
EVERY SUNDAY FROM
17 NOVEMBER – 23 FEBRUARY 2014 BOOK NOW: 03 5962 2420 Healesville Sports Complex, Cnr Don & Donald Roads, Healesville VIC 3777
4 SUMMER 2013
E: healesville@grv.org.au www.grv.org.au/healesville
FUN FOR WHOL
E FAMILY
GREAT GREYHOUND RACING
Touristnews
HOSPITALITY, DELICIOUS FOOD & STATE
R E S TAU R A N T
2011 WINNER "ROOMS
OF THE
ART VENUE
OF THE
R E S O RT M OT E L
AND
RON GODING AWARD
FOR
BUSINESS EXCELLENCE
ARE EXCEPTIONALLY CLEAN, RESTAURANT & RECEPTION IS BUILT LIKE A BANQUET HALL" The Age Editorial “THE BEST RESORT MOTEL IN HEALESVILLE & THE YARRA VALLEY” The Telegraph Newspapers editorial
FINE CHEFS - A LA CARTE, KIDS
AND VEGETARIAN
5962 5148
MENUS
❦ Special Wedding Packages Available
• 24 high standard accommodation units - 3.5 and 4 star. • Catering for memorable occasions, weddings, birthdays and conferences, with menus to suit your taste and budget. • Special Seniors Day Show every last Thursday of the month, 2 course lunch and live entertainment.
Celebrating 12 years of great hospitality under the same family management.
BOOK NOW for our Famous Christmas Lunch with live entertainment from the great Andrew Portelli.
SPECIAL
W BOOK NO R U O Y R FO GROUP AS CHRISTM S N FUNCTIO
RATES FOR GROUPS, ORGANISATIONS BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL
&
COMMUNITY CLUBS
326 Badger Creek Road, HEALESVILLE e: info@sanctuaryhouse.com.au www.sanctuaryhouse.com.au SERVING TOURISM & THE COMMUNITY
1096582-BM53-13
5962 5148
MARYSVILLE
5 Reasons to visit Marysville
Spots of
beauty BY JESSE GRAHAM
1 Steavenson Falls... Take a walk and visit one of the tallest waterfalls in Victoria. With a total height of 122 metres, Steavenson Falls is a captivating sight night or day, with lights installed around the area, powered by the waterfall itself. Named after an assistant commissioner of Roads and Bridges John Steavenson, the falls are illuminated until 11pm by floodlights. Take a drive down Falls Road from Murchison Street and continue until the road ends with a car park and public toilets. There are paths that lead to scenic spots at the bottom and the top of the falls, with the latter taking around half an hour each direction.
2 Gallipoli Park... Looking for a place to let the kids loose? Gallipoli Park, which underwent a $1.8 million redevelopment after the 2009 bushfires, is the perfect place for kids to explore and play, with a state-of-the-art children’s playground. Slides, a sandpit, roundabout, rope-climbing net and flying foxes are just some of the treats that will be found at the park, which also includes a reflective garden for those after a quieter day out. A gazebo is available for some shade away from the summer sun and the New Life Sculpture, created by artist Bruno Torfs, is a sight all of its own.
6 SUMMER 2013
Touristnews
MARYSVILLE
3 Fraga’s Café... No visit to Marysville, or any town for that matter, would be complete without a good cup of coffee. Fraga’s Cafe make use of Great Divide Coffee beans, which is roasted in Buxton, for that timeless beverage, which will set you back $3.80 a cup. Heavily involved in the town in recent years, Fraga’s Cafe was badly damaged in the 2009 bushfires and has been rebuilt to provide a colourful, warm and friendly environment. James Fraga, who owns the cafe with his wife Jane, said the cafe makes all food fresh on-premises from scratch, using local produce where possible. The cafe is at 19 Murchison Street, Marysville, and is open from 9am-4pm weekdays and 9am-4.30pm weekends. Call 5963 3216.
4 Bruno’s Art and Sculpture Garden... For a sensory feast and an arty experience, visitors to Marysville would be wise to stop in at Bruno’s Art and Sculpture Garden. Starting out with 15 terracotta sculptures, the garden, based on Falls Road, today features over 115 pieces by Bruno Torfs, set among gardens that accentuate each piece’s beauty. The garden is open from 10am-5pm every day, with entry to the gardens during the week costing $5 for visitors over the age of 10, $10 for entry to the garden and the gallery for those over 16 years old and $5 for under-16s on weekends. Children under 10 receive free entry. For more information, visit www.brunosart.com.
Marysville and District Historical Society...
5
See Marysville in a different way to the current day – the Marysville and District Historical Society has a thousands of items donated from around the world, that tell the story of the town’s 150-year history. The Historical Society’s new home at 39 Darwin Street houses the historical items, which includes numerous photographs, pieces of furniture and even the original clock from Keppel’s Hotel, which measures the time, the day of the week and the date. Mary Kenealy, who helped to gather items after the collection’s destruction in 2009 with her husband Reg, said the motto of the historical society is “we are here and the story will still be told”. For opening hours, email regken@bigpond.com or call 0417 596 433.
Touristnews
SUMMER 2013 7
Warburton
Licensed Cafe
Victoria’s BEST BACON
Function Centre
Victoria’s BEST SAUSAGES 2011-2012
2005-2012
Top Butcher
best kept ictoria’s V ly ib s s Po cret! golfing se
Steve & Shane Tel: 5962 5071
1100822-SL50-13
Treat yourself this summer...
Open for Dinner every Thursday. Tourists, friends families are always welcome. PH: 03 5966 2306 E:warbygolf@bigpond.com www.warburtongolf.com.au
1052599-SH49-12
Play 9 or 18 holes of inspiring golf, then relax inside with great food, Yarra Valley wines and local organic ‘Silva coffee’! The golfing is always great at Warburton. The hills, the streams, the tees and greens make every hole a treat to play. Carts and clubs available for hire.
Victoria’s BEST CABANA 2009-2010 1012193-SH48-11
GOLF. CLUB
Winner State Championship 209 Maroondah Hwy For Best Bacon & Sausages 2005, 2009, 2011 & 2012 Healesville Vic. 3777
art at lindengate Contemporary art gallery Paintings, prints, sculptures, photographs 899 Healesville Yarra Glen Road, Yarra Glen Vic 3775 Open Friday - Monday 10-5pm Tel: 03 9730 1861 www.artatlindengate.com
artatlindengate@gmail.com
8 SUMMER 2013
1097359-SL50-13
Choose from our huge range of deliciously fresh products - any time of the day
Touristnews
RAIL TRAILS
Happy trails BY REBECCA BILLS SUMMER is a chance to emerge from the indoors and explore the great outdoors that is the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges. One great way to sightsee the picturesque area is by getting out the mountain bike or the walking shoes and exploring one of the many trails weaving through the region. For a dose of history and beauty, the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail is a ride that will not disappoint. Travel through Yarra Valley farmland, vineyards, forests and bush, with leafy canopy soaring overhead. The 39-kilometre recreation trail is a great place for walkers, cyclists and horse riders to enjoy over summer, stopping off for a bite to eat or refreshment at one of the many country pubs or historic sites along the way. Make your way along the same route passengers in the 1800s would have taken and meander past the remnants of the former station platforms and be sure to stop in at the original 1882 railway station now known as the Upper Yarra Museum. Or why not explore the Dandenong Ranges on two wheels at Lysterfield Lake, the site of the 2006 Commonwealth Games mountain biking event. Traverse your way through 20 kilometres of various trails that are suitable for riders of all abilities, with more technical trails available for the more confident riders and smooth trails around the lake and parkland perfect for families. No matter what your age or ability, there is a trail around here that will take your breath away.
Stephen Bills, Adrian Binkert and Adrian Garvey enjoying the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail. Picture: KIM CARTMELL.
Watchers on the wing
From top: Yarra Glen wetlands. Budding bird-watchers can get up close at some reserves and parks. A shimmering Darter. Pictures: KATH GANNAWAY 10 {SEASON YEAR}
Touristnews
BY KATH GANNAWAY BIRDS have a good life in the diverse habitats of the Yarra Ranges region and beyond - and that means so, too, do bird watchers. From open farmlands to rainforests, and spoilt for choice when it comes to established parks and reserves, Badger Weir out of Healesville, the Rhododendron Gardens at Olinda and the appropriately named Birdsland at Lysterfield, to name only very few, bird-watching is not only enjoyable, it is immensely accessible. Tourist News went to two of the Yarra Valley’s top bird watchers, Glen Mawson, convener of Birdlife Australia’s Yarra Valley Branch, and renowned bird expert and co-author of Field Guide to the Birds of Australia, Ken Simpson, to find out where the very best spots are to spot birds - and how to go about it. If you are introducing kids to the past-time, Ken says Healesville Sanctuary is a great place to start the conversation. “With a good field guide, it’s where kids can learn their birds,” he said. For Glen, it’s Lillydale Lake, with its bird hides and walkways over the wetlands, and the lake itself a drawcard for all types of water birds. “There’s nowhere better to see a good variety of birds in one spot; lots of water birds, big numbers of moorhens and purple swamp hens, you can often see a darter shimmering in the sunlight,” he said. Maroondah Dam in Healesville, Badger Weir in Badger Creek and Grants Picnic Ground at Kallista are places where kids can get up close to rosellas and perhaps catch a glimpse of a lyrebird scratching away in the leaflitter in the damper parts of the forests. Ken does quarterly bird walks through Yarra Junction Library and has introduced hundreds of people of all ages to the skills and joys of bird-watching over the years. The Warburton Trail is one of his favourite spots with the stretch between Seville and Killara getting a special mention for its wide range of bush and farmland birds including the rare eastern shrike-tit, eastern whipbird and more common summer migrants, the rufous whistler, dusky woodswallow, and different types of honeyeaters, among many others. The walk between Millgrove into Warburton as another favourite, taking you into the tall wet forest as the Yarra Valley narrows. The spotted pardalote and the white-throated treecreeper are among possible ‘finds’ here. “Having got there, walk the river circuit from the main large bridge to the suspension footbridge, cross over to complete your circuit ... and fall into a cafe and have lunch,” is Ken’s recipe for a complete bird-watching experience. Other areas are the Dandenong Ranges including Sherbrooke Forest and Kallista where there’s a chance of a superb lyrebird. One of Glen’s favourite spots - apart from looking out his window in Chum Creek, is the Cathedral Ranges State Park out of Marysville which he says is a great place for birds of prey including wedge-tailed eagles and the chance of a peregrine falcon. Birdlife Australia Yarra Valley Branch puts out very comprehensive brochure listing around 250 birds, their status and birding locations. A pair of binoculars and a good field guide are essential equipment, and be sure to take along a notebook to write down your ‘finds’ and record descriptions for those birds that don’t seem to match up. Two excellent books are ‘Birds of the Yarra Catchment And where to find them’ by Peter Mason and ‘Simpson and Day Field Guide to the Birds of Australia’ published by Penguin Books. Most of all, set out with a great sense of adventure and anticipation - you never know what you’ll find and you’ll be surprised at just how much fun bird-watching can be. Touristnews
From top: Sneak up on a lorrikeet. Farmlands or bush - Kookaburras love being around people. {SEASON YEAR} 11
On the road as part of the Remembrance Cruise. 109587 Pictures: KATH GANNAWAY
Passion of the horsepower BY KATH GANNAWAY IF THE glint of sunlight flashing off the chrome of a classic Chrysler gets your motor revving, the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges region has plenty of horse-power on show over summer. Car and bike shows, along with car club rallies, bring thousands of people into the region every year and while there’s a lot of under the bonnet turbo gazing, spit and polish, and swapping stories of piston passion at these events, visitors don’t have to be rev-heads to enjoy a summer car show. Spectacular hot rods, classic, custom and vintage cars and bikes are the star attractions but these shows, which are run by locals to benefit local community groups, are geared to appeal to a broad demographic - particularly families. ‘Family friendly’ means everyone from toddlers to granddads with row after row of magnificent machines, music, children’s entertainment and activities, and fantastic food on offer. The Wandin Car and Bike Show draws huge crowds from October through to March at the Wandin East Reserve. The event is held on the third Wednesday of the month and the locals embrace it as a chance to get together, appreciate the colour and spectacle of the main attraction, have a bite to eat and kick back to a band as the sun slowly disappears below the tree-line. For visitors, it’s a charming taste of country hospitality. The annual Mountain District Car and Bike Show, now in its eighth year, is a turbo-powered one-day event which is held each March in Healesville.
The mechanics of it Wandin Car and Bike Show Wandin East Reserve Wednesdays - 18 December, 15 January, 19 February and 19 March 6pm - 9pm. Contact: Cindy 0423 354 217 Black Saturday Remembrance Cruise Lilydale to Healesville Railway Precinct Saturday 1 February 3pm from Lilydale/4pm at Healesville. Contact: Stacey 0421 321 203 or visit bsrcruise@yahoo.com.au. Mountain District Car and Bike Show Don Road Sporting Complex, Healesville Sunday 16 March - 10am-4pm Contact: Jacqueline 9737 9660 or visit www.mdcbs.com. Monbulk Late Night Shopping Cruise Main Street, Monbulk Wednesdays - 11 December, 8 January, 12 February and 12 March. 6pm-9pm Contact: Jacqueline 9737 9660
The amphitheatre at the Don Road Sporting Complex is an ideal exhibition space for the swarms of vehicles with plenty of room for the live music, food, market stalls and children’s activities. The organisers of this event also run the Monbulk Late Night Shopping Cruise bringing the main street to life on the second Wednesday each month through until March. Stroll, browse, buy and drool (and that’s just the cars)! The local RSL is open on the night with a live band. A very different type of car show, also growing in popularity, is the Black Saturday Remembrance Cruise in February. Join the cruise from Lilydale or go along to view the cars at the Healesville Historic Railway precinct. Live music, train rides and food and drink are also on offer, with a pause for the Remembrance Ceremony at 5.30pm.
Black duco, red upholstery - a head-turner in the crowd.
Join the
Embrace the magic of the Yarra Valley’s affair with wine. Insets: Jimmy Barnes will be an entertainment headliner at Grape Grazing 2014.
grape escape BY KATH GANNAWAY GRAPE Grazing is back. The iconic Yarra Valley food and wine Grape Grazing Festival will return in February after a five-year break due to the devastating Black Saturday bushfires. The festival is set to return in a re-invigorated three-day format showcasing the best of Yarra Valley food producers, restaurants, cider, beer and ale producers, as well as accommodation providers and wineries. Considered the leading regional food, wine and tourism festival in Australia, it regularly attracted more than 20,000 visitors annually. With more than 50 events taking place across the three days, February 14, 15 and 16, throughout the region it should be a fantastic summer weekend in the valley. Plans include balloon flights, wine and food events including a masterclass and degustation dinner, picnic hampers, wood-fired pizzas, live music and much, much more. A highlight will be the Grape Grazing A Day On The Green concert headlined by Jimmy Barnes. Grape Grazing is the best way for people to experience the best of what the Yarra Valley has to offer - with so many local operators showcasing their unique gourmet produce - the fun, welcoming atmosphere making this an ideal festival for people of all ages. The three-day festival takes in Valentine’s Day and there will be plenty of options for foodie lovers to engage in special, romantic dinners and events. On the Saturday Healesville Memorial Hall will host the Small Producers’ Exhibit - where more than 15 winemakers will share their product from 11am to 7pm - a great place to start or finish a day in the Yarra Valley visiting other participating wineries and eateries. The festivities continue into Sunday with an international flavour permeating throughout the valley. The hardest thing about Grape Grazing 2014 will be choosing which of the many fantastic venues to visit. Graze for more information at www.grapegrazing.com.au .
Touristnews
SUMMER 2013 13
Looking for a Totally UNIQUE and FUN Experience?
BUXTON NURSERY 3 ACRES OF TUBES AND ESTABLISHED PLANTS
Come along and join the Segway team & experience all the delights of gliding among the grapevines at the stunning Rochford winery located in the heart of the Yarra Valley. Our experienced guides will provide you with full training & before you know it you’ll be cruising effortlessly while enjoying the unique freedom that a Segway provides. Once you’re confident on the machine you can test your Segway skills on Rochford’s awesome all-terrain track! Finish your experience with a relaxing meal in the Rochford Restaurant. It’s the most fun you can have standing up!
1035401-KG29-12
Available weekends, public holidays and groups by appointment.
1300 112 147 www.segwayvictoria.com.au
TOURS
14 SUMMER 2013
RS HE UC LE! O T V AB GIF VAIL A
No Ordinary Nursery CAFE OPEN DAILY 2600 Maroondah Hwy, Buxton Vic 3711
Ph 5774 7345 (4km from Buxton)
1097516-SL50-13
Touristnews
Warratina Lavender Farm Lavender Time: November to February
Warratina
HARVEST SEASON NOVEMBER - JANUARY
• Lavender harvest time: November to January • Lavender processing: December to February • Christmas parties. Bookings required • Wide range Xmas gifts available • Garden walks • Tea Room daily specials • New Summer menu • Catering for Special occassions
Come and see the breathtaking fields of blooming lavender! See traditional harvesting methods, visit the lavender drying shed, and take a stroll through the beautiful gardens. Visit the Lavender Cottage Tea Rooms & enjoy lavender scones plus lavender iceǦcream!
Enquiries: Ph 03 5964 4650 www.warratinalavender.com.au 105 Quayle Road, Wandin Yallock, Mel ref: 121 F1
1057586-SH10-13
1081246-JL37-13
Open: 9am to 4pm. Closed Tuesdays only.
• Wedding Packages Available •
105 Quayle Road, Wandin Yallock 3139 All enquiries please call 03 5964 4650
www.warratinalavender.com.au
A VISIT to Grants on Sherbrooke is always a pleasure. Located in the Dandenong Ranges this well known refreshment icon has catered to tourists and locals since the 1950s. Owner/operators, Cheryl and Geoff Campbell completed refurbishments late in 2005 doubling the size of the original building. Grants specialise in Australian seasonal cooking and guests can dine in air conditioned comfort indoors or by the cosy log fire in winter. In summer, guests can dine alfresco among the natural bush setting.
Browse in the Gift Shop, which has one of the largest ranges of quality Australiana Gifts and Souvenirs east of Melbourne.
Our services include: • New Menu • Licensed Café • Functions - from 15 to 120 guests • Devonshire Tea
Warratina Lavender Farm
The floor to ceiling windows in the restaurant allow patrons to view the natural Australian bushland with rosellas, kookaburras, lyrebirds, cockatoos, wallabies and even the occasional echidna wandering around. Grants is the only place in Victoria where visitors are permitted to hand feed the native birds. 9am to 5pm in feeding area only.
• Extensive Range of Gifts & Australiana Souvenirs • Light Meals • Cosy Log Fire • Take-Away Food • Indoor and Alfresco Dining
• Events • Disabled Facilities and Access • Open 7 days 9am to 5pm • Evenings by arrangement
Grants Picnic Ground • 70 Monbulk Road, Kallista • Phone 9755 2888 Melways Ref 75K4 www.grantsonsherbrooke.com.au Touristnews
SUMMER 2013 15
Make tracks to the races BY KATH GANNAWAY THEY’RE off! At the gallops, the trots and the dogs. If a day at the races is part of your summer holiday plans, the Yarra Valley has three very different venues - and three very different racing experiences on offer. You can have a flutter trackside every week over summer with Yarra Valley Racing (YVR) in Yarra Glen, Healesville Amateur Racing Club (HARC) and Healesville Greyhound Racing Club (HGRC) running a total of 32 meetings from December through to March. The days are long gone when the race track was a bit like the local pub, or the snooker hall - a bit shady; definitely not somewhere you’d want to take the family. At Healesville races, the biggest field is in the Kids Stakes where the prize pool is a huge basket of lolly bags and the punters (aka parents, uncles, aunts and friends) cheer the runners on as if their favourite was 100-1 long-shot with a real chance. Yarra Glen and Healesville Greyhound tracks are also geared up for families, and they show it with entertainment, games, well-equipped playgrounds and an emphasis on providing facilities and spaces where families can enjoy a relaxing day out with plenty to keep everyone happy and entertained. It’s not all about the kids however and each track offers great dining and marquee packages for young people, family, community and corporate groups, as well as lots of lawned areas for picnics. And, then there’s the horses! For the more serious punters, there are TAB facilities along with the on-course bookies who provide betting on local and other meetings, as well as adding to the race day atmosphere. Don’t limit yourself this summer. Be adventurous. Try all the codes and enjoy the unique features each track offers - Healesville Greyhound’s straight sand track, for instance; the magnificent pin-oaks at Healesville, and the incredible views from the grandstand at Yarra Glen - just for starters!
Make a Race Date Healesville Greyhounds: Every Sunday. Healesville Races: Saturdays - 14 December, r, 11 January, 1 February and 5 April. Yarra Glen Races: Fridays 13 and 20 December; er; ays 26 January and Tuesday 7 January, Thursday 16 January, Sundays 16 February, Monday 24 February, Saturday 1 March, Wednesday 12 March, Sunday 16 March and Monday, 31 March. Want to know more? Healesville Greyhounds: www.grv.org.au/healesville Healesville Races: www.healesvilleraces.com.au Yarra Glen Races: www.yarravalleyracing.com.au
Get close to the action in the Yarra Valley. 110177_03
Anita Mariniello won Best Hat in Fashions on the Field. 109778_20
From left, Linda Murphy (Ringwood), Keith Behm (Healesville), Doe Deakin (from The United Kingdom) and her daughter-in-law Jo Deakin (Croydon Hills)
They’re off - in the Kids’ Stakes at Healesville. Photos: ROB CAREW 16 SUMMER 2013
Touristnews
Memorials mark
black day
Artist Ernst Fries with his model of the Yarra Glen Black Saturday Memorial’s glass screen.
Ali Griffin with her design for Healesville’s Black Saturday Memorial Bench. Pictures: DONNA OATES.
BY JESSE GRAHAM
extent of the fire in the Yarra Ranges, along with a brief description of the event. In Healesville, a memorial of a different kind has been constructed by artist Ali Griffin. A bench has been erected in Queens Park, etched with the words and stories of those in the community who were affected by the fires. Ms Griffin said the bench is a way of showing many people’s different memories and points-of-view and aims to to capture the community’s sentiments about the tragedy that struck the area in 2009. Both memorials were completed in November and other memorials have also been constructed in Chum Creek, Steels Creek, Dixons Creek and Kinglake National Park. The fifth anniversary of Black Saturday will fall on Friday 7 February 2014. In 2009, the Black Saturday bushfires killed 173 people, injured 414 people, destroyed 2100 homes and displaced 7562 people. For more information, visit www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au.
THE fifth anniversary of the tragic Black Saturday Bushfires will be marked with the opening of memorials across the Yarra Valley which will pay tribute to those who died and to the resilient and rebuilt communities. Black Saturday memorials in Healesville and Yarra Glen will be unveiled this summer in the lead up to the fifth anniversary of the fires Local artists have been at the helm of the monuments’ design. In Yarra Glen, artist Ernst Fries has created a piece in McKenzie Reserve that he said is more of a quiet area for reflection and meditation than a sad memorial space. With a three-panel screen constructed with transparent, faceted, coloured glass depicting the ferocity of the bushfires, the recovery after the event and the hope for the future in the aftermath, the sheltered piece is lit at night for visitors. The lights at the memorial commemorate those who lost their lives and a bronze plaque mounted on a rock in the space will show the Touristnews
SUMMER 2013 17
SWIMMING POOLS
Much to like at the BY REBECCA BILLS SPLISH splash, summer is upon us. And as the sun heats up, visitors and locals can enjoy a wade of relief at water spots throughout the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges. One spot that is a particular favourite among locals and visitors is Emerald Lake Park for its wide variety of parklands, lake activities and a unique wading pool which is open throughout the summer. Lake Nobelius and Treganowan are the two glorious lakes situated at Emerald Lake Park with the wading pool located on the edge of Lake Treganowan offering scenic views over the parklands. For the more adventurous visitors, paddles boats are available to reminisce about days gone by. With plenty of space to explore the lake, paddlers can leisurely paddle around or mix things up with a race with friends, darting across the lake.
The nursery employed 80 people and produced up to three million trees and shrubs on part of what is now the park area and when the nursery was no longer viable, a processing mill at the park was installed to prepare raw fibre for transporting rope between 1913 and 1926. After Mr Nobelius’ death in 1921, the park area was sold to William Treganowan who was encouraged to establish the area as a park. Between 1934 and 1940 Lake Treganowan was created by the Ferntree Gully Shire Council to form the 3.4 acre lake, which lead to the park being what it is today. Visitors now get to experience the beauty and tranquillity of the Emerald surrounds with top facilities around the park making it an easy, relaxed place to bring the family to enjoy long summer days in the hills. Emerald Lake Park is located on Emerald Lake Road, Emerald. For more information call 1300 131 683.
As the ducks cool off diving in and out, why not try your luck with some fishing on the lake’s edge. No matter what your age or whether you are an avid angler looking for a peaceful, cool location or a first timer everyone is welcome. Lake Treganowan is restocked twice a year with regular rainbow trout, which you can fish freely in. After a paddle, a fish and a frolic in the wading pool, the leafy canopy over the parklands provides the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic lunch with loved ones relaxing on one of the many picnic tables scattered throughout the park. Or why not cook up your catch on one of the free to use barbecues making it a memorable day for all. According to the Emerald Museum, Emerald Lake Park was purchased during the late 1880s by Carl Axel Nobelius to form part of his plant nursery holdings. 1101156-SL50-13
Gym Swim Shop Relax Monbulk Aquatic Centre 26 Baynes Park Road 03 9756 6227 www.monbulkaquatic.com.au 18 SUMMER 2013
Touristnews
1108015-SL50-13
Melbourne’s Best Cinema Prices for Mainstream & Arthouse Movies
AD DULTS $12 CHIL LDREN & CONC CESSIO ONS $9 SE ENIO ORS $7 FAMIL LY TICKETS $36
ALL CIN NEMAS ARE LICENSED Level 1, 3-5 Hewish Road, Croydon www.croydoncinemas.com.au
9725 6544 like us on facebook
MEKONG RIVER
HOME FASHION JEWELLERY FURNITURE
SOAPS & CANDLES KIDS NOVELTIES TOYS ORGANIC FOOD
Shop 5/240 Yarra Street, Warrandyte, Vic 3113
9844 4224 www.quirkgiftsandlifestyle.com.au www.facebook.com/quirkgifts 1100839-JL50-13
TRADING COMPANY Quality handcrafted ware from across Asia and beyond.
1097731-SL50-13
• Lacquerware • Jewellery • Silks
Touristnews
• Handbags • Designer and Bamboo Clothing
• Furniture • Unique Petrified Wood Stone Tables
sales@mekongrivertradingcompany.com.au www.mekongrivertradingcompany.com.au Shop 1, 222 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville 3777 | P: 5962 6729 | M: 0438 190 162 SUMMER 2013 19
Free fun for everyone! The annual Eltham Jazz, Food & Wine Festival is taking place on the 22nd & 23rd February 2014. This year we have an entertaining and exciting musical line-up of jazz, swing and blues artists performing on three stages across Eltham town centre. Come along and enjoy a wide range of music, tantalising food and wine, fantastic local shopping, activities for the kids and lots more‌
See www.elthamjazz.com for further information.
ELTHAM
History and arts in the mix BY MELISSA MEEHAN ELTHAM is a perfect example of where the city meets the country. Only half an hour from Melbourne, Eltham provides a quirky arts town full of cafes, book shops and other interesting nooks and crannies to get a meal or watch the world go by. More and more funky, quirky and interesting cafes and restaurants are popping up providing so much choice for visitors and locals alike. It also has an important piece of history, Eltham’s granite war memorial (unveiled in 1919) has now been protected for future generations and visitors after the government officially recognised it as of local heritage significance. The granite war memorial was first unveiled by the Lieutenant Governor of Victoria Sir William Irvine on 3 August 1919, on the northwest corner of the intersection of Main Road and Bridge Street, Eltham. The cenotaph bears the names of 27 locals who died in World War I, and 11 more who lost their lives in World War II. The cenotaph was moved to the Eltham Returned and Services League of Australia (RSL) building in the 1950s and was once again relocated last year following the amalgamation of the Eltham and Montmorency RSLs and subsequent sale of the Eltham RSL. Touristnews
SUMMER 2013 21
1086258-JL37-13
Come to Warrandyte - a great place to visit
1037069-CR36-12
Enjoy our unique shops, walk, relax and explore all that Warrandyte has to offer.
61 – 63 Yarra Street, Warrandyte Phone: 9844 0365 Come and relax in this unique tranquil bush garden cafe SEASONAL MENU AND FULLY LICENSED (specialising in wines sourced from local Australian wineries) EXTENSIVE DELICIOUS BREAKFAST MENU (Eggs Benedict our most popular) GOURMET LUNCHES (Specials board changes often) Large selection of Herbal Teas & Devonshire Teas available THE BEST EVER COFFEE Open 7 Days a Week 8.00am – 5.00pm Rear on-site car park ample room for buses
Intimate Weddings & Cocktail Parties up to 60 22 SUMMER 2013
Touristnews
WARRANDYTE
A secret pleasure BY MELISSA MEEHAN AT THE gateway of the Yarra Valley lays Warrandyte - located along the banks of the Yarra River, this sleepy town is abuzz when summer hits. Not only will you find families enjoying the tasty treats this town has to offer, but you will hear the splash and laughter of children cooling down as they dip their feet in the Yarra or even take a swim. But one of the best kept secrets, known by only locals, is where to get the best ice-cream - just out of town at the Warrandyte Strawberry Farm. This family-owned establishment doesn’t look like much from the road, just a small food van and a gravel car park - but in summer you will notice the car park filled and people lining up in wait for the best ice-cream they have ever tasted. But it’s not all about the ice-cream - it’s the locally grown strawberries and homemade strawberry sauce that makes this summer treat so special. They, too, make their own strawberry ice-cream, chocolate dipped strawberries and have even started making their own blueberry sauce. There are no seats, so grab a patch of grass or eat standing - it’s well worth it. So now you know a local secret - do you keep it to yourself or share it with the world?
Warrandyte’s best kept secret. Picture: MELISSA MEEHAN Touristnews
SUMMER 2013 23
DINING DI DIN D IN NIN ING NG N G
Casual cuisine BY JESSE GRAHAM A CASUAL environment with breathtaking views is just a taste of the many tantalising features at Yarra Glen’s Zonzo restaurant. The restaurant, which opened six years ago in a converted milking shed, is set on 45 acres in the Train Trak Vineyard, just three kilometres from Yarra Glen’s main street. Boasting spacious lawns for children to play, and for adults to relax on, the key attraction to the restaurant is its emphasis on the Italian custom of the ‘shared table’. The shared table custom features food placed in the centre of the table, allowing friends and family to enjoy a more casual experience with their meal. Chef and owner at Zonzo Roderick Micallef said that Zonzo had dedicated its venue to cater for both small and large groups. “Our approach is to offer a casual environment with a passion for food and service,” he said.
Open Tue-Sun from 12noon
“We have found the right blend of family entertainment with the menu.” The restaurant is highly acclaimed, being featured in this year’s edition of The Age’s Good Food Guide and scooping consecutive awards for the best Restaurant Reception as part of the Bridal Industry Awards - in 2011, 2012 and 2013. Zonzo can host private functions, catering for up to 120 sit-down guests or 150 in a cocktail-style function, and can also host weddings and ceremonies. Offering food for special needs, such as gluten-free, lactose-free, vegans and vegetarians, there is something for everyone at the restaurant. Zonzo is located at 957 Healesville-Yarra Glen Road in Yarra Glen and is open for lunch on Wednesdays and Thursdays and lunch and dinner on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. For more information, visit www.zonzo. com.au, email info@zonzo.com.au or call 9730 2500.
The team at Zonzo is friendly and able to accommodate small and large groups.
www.nikos.com.au www.nikos.com.au Licensed BYO wine only
specialising in gourmet potato food Catering for up to 250 people. Live Greek music. Provide your guests with a great night out at a very competitive price. Dancing the Zorba & Plate Smashing
TAKE AWAY AVAILABLE
520655-SAH22-11
Greek Cuisine, Charcoal Grill & Seafood GROUP BOOKINGS & FUNCTIONS * Weddings * Birthday Parties * Christenings * Engagements * Casual Lunch & Dinner BOOK NOW!
$11.00 LUNCH SPECIAL $ MONDAY - THURSDAY
1097460-SL50-13
190 Mount Dandenong Road Ringwood East Tel: 9870 0554 24 SUMMER 2013
Touristnews
WINERY
OLIVE GROVE
DISTILLERY
CUCINA
VENUE
Welcome to Olivigna, your great Italian escape.
1100028-SL50-13
Set over eight inspired hectares ignite your senses with breath taking views over vines, olive & lemon groves whilst enjoying authentic hospitality. Located only twenty three kilometres from the heart of Melbourne, Olivigna offers a truly unique environment to enjoy relaxed dinning or special occasion. 54-56 Brumbys Road Warrandyte South | Email: info@olivigna.com.au
Ph: 9844 4676
www.olivigna.com.au 1100827-SL50-13
Boasting one of the best views in the valley, Zonzo is situated at the Train Trak vineyard set amongst forty- five acres of vines and large areas of luscious lawns for kids to run wild and for adults to relax. We cater for Lunch, Dinner, Weddings, Christenings, Corporate and other special occasions. Takeaway is available. Located on Train Trak Winery 957 Healesville - Yarra Glen Road, Yarra Glen VIC 3775
• 9730 2500 • info@zonzo.com.au • www.zonzo.com.au 1100838-SL50-13
oolangi avern
1390 Myers Creek Road, Toolangi Phone: 5962 9398 • www.toolangitavern.com.au Touristnews
Come in and enjoy the beautiful mountain views... Eat in or take away. All your favourites available. TAKING YOUR WEDDING OR FUNCTION BOOKINGS
• Friendly Service • Family Friendly • Great Views SUMMER 2013 25
OLINDA / SASSAFRAS
Twice the
Some mouth watering cheese sourced from around Sassafrass and Olinda. Picture: KIM CARTMELL
BY REBECCA BILLS WHEN looking for delectable treats and delicate boutique stores the neighbouring towns of Sassafras and Olinda have it all. In the quaint, tree-lined streets, crisp summer days can be enjoyed just meandering, stopping in at mouthwatering Devonshire tea outlets, browsing the antique shops, niche boutiques and various nurseries. This melting pot of fine foods has 16 restaurants situated within a two kilometre radius - with six iconic Parks Victoria Properties all within five kilometres, including William Rickets Sanctuary, the National Rhododendron Gardens and Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens. Whether you want to indulge your sweet tooth at the Olinda Sweet Company or step back in time and feel like Agatha Christie devouring a brilliant afternoon tea at Miss Marples Tea Room or explore the gourmet pantry of Cream at Sassafras your tastebuds will be tantalised no matter what.
treat You can eat and drink until your heart is truly content, with Ripe, Sassafras also nestled among the petite shops and eateries there are various tea rooms scattered about. Just 45 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD, Sassafrass and Olinda are both metres from the top of the Dandenong Ranges ridgeline and possess rich history in the tourism industry of this area. The town of Olinda was originally a logging settlement, however as more land was made available for horticulture in the early 1900s growth within the town was substantial. Berry farming, dairying and flower growing became the main industries in the area with tourism flourishing. Iconic eateries like The Cuckoo Restaurant, which has been attracting visitors for over 55 years, the Pig and Whistle Tavern and Pie in the Sky all have played a part in establishing the area in presenting a unique and entertaining dining experience that highlight what the area has to offer.
1100852-JL50-13
The Loft in the Mill is Boutique Accommodation, located in the heart of the Olinda village. A blue stone replica of a 19th century English Flour Mill and an adjacent bluestone Carriage House provides beautifully appointed private entrance suites, featuring double spas in luxurious bathrooms, crackling log fires, and four poster beds to suit all styles & budgets. 28 SUMMER 2103
A truly luxurious intimate and romantic place to make magical memories
The Loft In The Mill, 1602 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road,Olinda, Victoria, Australia, 3788 Phone: 9751 1700 E: info@loftinthemill.com.au W: www.loftinthemill.com.au Touristnews
OLINDA / SASSAFRAS 1101038-SL50-13
Elle Naturale olinda massage, facials & body scrubs Here you can indulge yourself with a relaxing, therapeutic, sports, pregnancy or couples massage. Expect to feel the healing benefits of Manuka honey and avocado face masks, Celtic sea salt, lemon rind and cold pressed virgin olive oil hand & foot scrubs and organic ground coffee and orange rind body scrubs. Our therapists are all passionate about healing and giving you the best possible treatment. Also available at Elle Naturale Olinda is Bowen Therapy and Reiki as well as locally made skin products for you to buy.
Some of the delectable treats on offer at Cream at Sassafras.
Centrally located in the Olinda Village, our rooms are cosy, warm and candlelit.
ph: 9751 0199 text: 0411 622 445
email: info@ellenaturaleolinda.com.au web: www.ellenaturaleolinda.com.au
Exceptional food from people who are the best at what they do, wherever they are in Australia. Selected personally by us - we only stock food when we’ve seen it grown / made and meet to the people behind it. Taste all Food in store - every day
No wonder we’re Melbourne’s Foodies Store And then there’s our catering, our hampers, our dinners - our weddings!! WOW!!
Contact Mark 9755 2338 or 0488 111 106 www.creamatsassafras.com.au Touristnews
1101039-BM50-13
SUMMER 2013 29
Passion makes light work of growing ‘hobby’ BY KATH GANNAWAY WHEN Anne-Marie Manders started Warratina Lavender Farm in Wandin Yallock 22 years ago it was an enjoyable hobby. It’s still enjoyable, but it’s anything but a hobby now. The farm has grown into a hallmark Yarra Valley tourist attraction expanding into the production of handmade lavender products, initially in the laundry and expanding into a drying shed, gorgeous tea rooms and a gift shop - all with a lavender flavour ... and aroma. Anne-Marie was given special recognition in October when the Yarra Valley Regional Tourism Association awarded her the inaugural Margaret Baker Annual Shield. The award, in fact, gave recognition not only to Anne-Marie, but to Margaret who is also something of a ‘tourism legend’ in the valley having served with the Tourist Information Centre in Healesville for 19 years - first as a volunteer, then as a co-ordinator. The shield recognises outstanding promotion of, and dedication to, regional tourism. Margaret said she chose Anne-Marie for the inaugural award because of her great passion and innovation in her own businesses and for promoting the region. Warratina attracts thousands of visitors each year, including many international visitors and the farm
also hosts numerous local charity events including open gardens and art and quilt shows. Anne-Marie said she started initially going to markets and garden shows, including the International Flower and Garden Show in Melbourne which she did for 14 years winning seven Bronze Medals for the Warratina landscape designs. Margaret said everywhere Anne-Marie went, to shows and exhibitions locally, throughout Victoria and interstate, she took along boxes of brochures to promote the region. “It’s that enthusiasm and not only thinking of your own business but spreading the word about where you live that makes her such a great ambassador for us all,” she said. Over summer, lavender harvest time, Warratina offers tours of the drying shed on weekends, and the tea rooms and gift shop always offer a special taste of lavender. You’ll find Warratina Lavender Farm at 105 Quayle Road in Wandin Yallock. Phone 5964 4650. Top right: Warratina Lavender Farm’s Anne-Marie Manders, right, with Margaret Baker two women at the forefront of local tourism.
Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead in the Yarra Valley
Gardens | Museum | Gallery | Giftshop | Restaurant | Weddings Blacksmithing | Woodturning | Vintage Machinery
Upwey/Belgrave RSL 1 Mast Gully Road UPWEY 3158 www.upweybelgraversl.org.au
BAR OPERATING HOURS: Wednesday-Monday 2pm till late Tuesday 2pm till 7pm
BISTRO OPERATING HOURS: Dinner Wednesday-Monday 6pm till 8pm
RUNNING RABBIT’S MILITARY MUSEUM: Wood Steel & Steam Festival 22nd & 23rd February 2014 | 10am – 4pm Saturday & Sunday Woodturning, French polishing, Vintage machinery, Basket weaving, Blacksmiths, Chainsaw carving, Live music, Food and Drinks available.
Country Market Held every 2nd Saturday during February to May then September to December 9.00 to 1.00pm Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday 10.00am – 4.30pm Tours on Monday and Tuesday can be arranged 71 Wellington Road, Wandin North 3139 Phone: (03) 5964 2088 | Email: info@montdelancey.org.au 1100824-SL50-13
30 SUMMER 2013
www.montdelancey.org.au
Open - Thursday 10.00 to Noon and Sunday 10.30 to 2.30 Other times by appointment Mention this ad the first time you visit and have a beer or wine on us. We welcome families and visitors, bookings are recommended for the bistro. We have many regular events for members and guests, please phone for more details.
9754 3665
or visit www.upweybelgraversl.org.au 1083507-BM35-13
Touristnews
HEALESVILLE
Hats off to
Healesville BY REBECCA BILLS IT IS a hub of continual success boasting great food, wine and entertainment with the accolades just rolling in. After the 2009 bushfires, the town and neighbouring towns of Healesville found it hard to find their feet again after the devastation that was caused. The Healesville Hotel earlier this year showed it was back in the game after receiving one of the top honours in the state. The hotel was awarded the Best Regional Restaurant of the Year for the Age’s Good Food Guide 2014 and reinstated their prestigious onechef’s-hat status. Healesville Hotel co-owner Kelly Balharrie said that after the fires the hotel lost their one-chef’s-hat status after things slowed down in the area but said it is nice to see their hard work being recognised. “We’ve always done pretty well with awards but after the bushfires we slowed things down,” she said. “Having this title is a really great
achievement for the whole team and it means a lot to our wonderful chef. “It’s a pretty big deal and we are really blown away.” Ms Balharrie said the hotel had held onto a one-chef’s-hat status for eight years before losing it in the 2010 edition of the guide - the 2014 edition will mark the return of their chef’s hat. “So many businesses, shops and wineries in the area have said what a positive it is for us to have this award not only for the town but the whole region,” she said. “It is great retribution for all the shops and wineries in the area for us to be doing so well.” It has not just been the Healesville Hotel that has done exceptionally well, Belle Vedere just down the road continues to retain their one-chef’shat status showing that the Yarra Valley can really hold its own in the Good Food Guide. Only 21 restaurants in Regional Victoria currently have chef’s hat ratings in the Good Food Guide with 17 having a one-chef’s-hat rating.
Healesville Hotel owners Michael Kennedy and Kylie Balharrie. Picture: JESSE GRAHAM
Fairly Cambodian
Light Lunches & Devonshire Teas
Only Fair and Ethically traded Cambodian products Because poverty is NOT ok
Also Catering for Intimate Weddings
1086313-JL37-13
P: 03 5962 1112 Shop 2, 222 Maroondah Hwy, HEALESVILLE Open Daily 10.30am – 5.00pm
www.fairlycambodian.com Touristnews
Open Thursday – Monday & Public Holidays For your Christmas functions book NOW! 10am-5pm (except Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Good Friday, All of August) (Monday 10am-2.00pm) Group Bookings of 10 or more accepted everyday Roast Lunch on Sunday BYO Licensed.
1097513-SL50-13
Live, Love, Act and Buy Ethically
CASH ONLY
1694 Main Road, Toolangi
Ph: 03 5962 9282
Email: jansinginggardens@bigpond.com (Route C724) Parking Available. Jan & Vic Williams Welcome You.
SUMMER 2013 31
YARRA GLEN
Treasures of the Glen Yarra Valley Antique Centre’s Graham McKernan.
The Yarra Valley Grand Hotel is just one of the many places you can visit for a drink or a meal while adventuring through town.
BY JESSE GRAHAM WHETHER the day is set for shopping, exploring or relaxing with a cold drink in hand, Yarra Glen has plenty of attractions for the young, old and curious. There’s no shortage of choice for shoppers of all tastes around town. For the more art-inclined, ACME et al at 17 Bell Street has books, art supplies and even vintage Polaroid cameras. Artworks are regularly displayed in the gallery at ACME, which is open from 10am-5pm Thursday to Sunday. Unique and quirky gifts are never far away, with stores such as Yarra Valley Gifts offering a number of local, hand-made and often organic gift ideas. For unique items with deep history, there are a number of antique shops scattered along Bell Street, with untold treasures available for those willing to seek them. Graham McKernan from Yarra Valley Antique Centre said his shop stocks just about anything. “If you can’t find it here, it probably doesn’t exist,” he said. For those feeling adventurous, the playground at McKenzie Reserve can
provide hours of entertainment for families and children and a classic day out. Yarra Glen’s historic Gulf Station will be re-opening to the public on 1 January 2014, accompanied by the opening of Australia’s largest maize-maze on its grounds. Families and adventurers alike will be able to take a break at the ‘Corn-er Store’ shop at Gulf Station, while children can take part in a who-dunit style game, called FSI: Farm Scene Investigation. After a refreshment or a bite to eat after a long day on the town? Hargreaves Hill Brewing Company and the Yarra Valley Grand Hotel both offer a place to sit out of (or in the) the sun and enjoy some good food or a cool drink. The Yarra Glen Grand will have live performers every Friday and Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon throughout December and January. For more information and for the hotel’s gig guide, visit www.yarravalleygrand. com.au. For more information on restaurants, accommodation and shops around Yarra Glen, visit www.yarraglen.com.
1100833-SL50-13
32 SUMMER 2013
Touristnews
YARRA GLEN
frizz
DEN OF ANTIQUITIES
CLOTHING
Dorothy & Mike Winter
Ladies Clothing & Accessories Put some FRIZZ in your fashion! All sizes catered for.
Like us on Facebook www.frizzclothing.com.au
marsala
Café Catering Gelateria and Giftware
1098720-SL50-13
CLOSED TUESDAYS
Ph: 9730 2031 Shop 2/14 Bell Street, Yarra Glen
1071315-BM53-13
25a Bell Street, Yarra Glen 3775 Fax & Phone: 9730 2111 Dorothy Mobile: 0413 454 966 Mike Mobile: 0414 934 363 Email: denofantiqities@gmail.com
1019126-SH10-12
Buyers and Sellers of Antiques
Specialising in locally produced Art, Gifts, Homewares, Jewellery, Personal Care & Produce
YVG
Yarra Valley Gifts
Touristnews
Yarra Valley Gifts 22 Bell Street, Yarra Glen e-mail: shop@yarravalleygifts.com.au Ph: 03 97301134
1097508-SL50-13
Nestled in the heart of Yarra Glen Marsala Cafe and Giftware is a cafe with a twist, doubling as a gift and homewares store you’re sure to find a special keepsake to remind you of your visit. Whether you drop in for a cup of their specialty coffee or to sample a delicious dish from their Italian inspired menu you will not be disappointed. Open for breakfast and lunch 7 days a week Marsala is a stop on the trail not to be missed.
• Artisan • Natural Ingredients • Less Fat • Local Ingredients • Gluten Free Option • Real Fruit Sorbet
Marsala’s Café is Now Serving Dairy Gelato & Sorbet in 18 Flavours
Shop 3, 38 – 40 Bell Street Yarra Glen
Phone: 9730 1114 Visit us on Facebook Marsala Café Catering and Giftware. SUMMER 2013 33
FRESH FROM THE FARM
Season’s sweet treat BY REBECCA BILLS SWEET, juicy, plump cherries are always a sign that summer is upon us. Tucked away in the Yarra Rages is Wandin Valley Farms offering the highest quality cherries in Victoria. Recent 2013 Governor of Victoria Regional Export winners, Wandin Valley farms are known world-wide for exceptional produce. Opening its doors in 1984, the focus of the farm is producing the highest quality grade of cherries that exhibit rich colour, flavour and size. Owned by the Sebire family, one of the major pioneering families to first settle in the area, the farm has a long and successful history of extraordinary orchard management for delicious, high quality fruit growing. Fifth generation family member Alison Jones (nee Sebire) said it is a truly special farm which is rich in history. “I have grown up living and working on the property and I am very, very proud of our family business,” she said. “We are still on the original land where cherries were grown back in the early 1890s. “Unfortunately, due to soil condition we now grow our cherries at our two orchards in Boweya, North of Melbourne, and Rosegarland in Tasmania.”
Mrs Jones said the fresh produce is delivered daily to be packed in Wandin. “We sell a range of different sizes ranging from two kilogram back to five kilogram bags and sometimes specialty one kilogram boxes,” she said. “Our business has grown and grown over the years with our seasons starting late October and running through to the middle of January.” With a strong focus on the environment and care for the land that harvest their produce, Wandin Valley Farms has a strong belief that environmental sustainability extremely important. Some of the juicy varieties on offer include merchant, Chelan, Rons Seedling, Bing, Sylvia, Sweetheart and Sweet Georgia, to name a few, all offering a unique and satisfying taste. Mrs Jones said coming into summer, cherries are a guilt-free treat that the whole family can enjoy. “Whether it is a pip spitting contest or using cherries as Christmas decorations it is fun for the whole family,” Mrs Jones said. “They are just a fantastic, healthy snack that can be consumed anywhere at any time.” Wandin Valley Farms is located at 75 Wellington Road, Wandin North. For more information, visit www. wandinvalleyfarms.com.au or phone 5964 4669.
Alison Jones showing off some of the juicy cherries on offer this season. Picture: KIM CARTMELL
34 SUMMER 2013
That
golden touch BURSTING with flavour and awards is the family-owned and operated Kookaberry Strawberry Farm. This year the farm has been awarded a gold medal for their Raspberry Vinegar at the 2013 Sydney Fine Food Awards and another gold medal for their Loganberry Syrup at the 2013 Royal Hobart Fine Food Awards. Kookaberry’s notable produce is not shy of ongoing success with numerous other accolades and awards to their name dating back to 2008. From mouth-watering strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, boysenberries and loganberries, all produce is grown and made on the farm to ensure the taste and texture is just right. Owners Frances and Toni Calteri offer more than 35 years of experience in the industry and produce is offered through farm gate sales and sold as fresh as possible. Open seven days a week over summer, this delectable farm is also part of the Yarra Valley Regional Food Group trail. For more information on Kookaberry and all their success, visit www.kookaberry.com.au. Touristnews
FRESH FROM THE FARM
• Homemade Morning and Afternoon Teas • Delicious Berry Pancakes • Selection of sweet fruit wines - Tastings available • Frozen Berries all year round - Fresh Berries available Dec to Feb • Homemade Berry Jam • Blueberry Plants
423057-SH48-10
FR AV ES A H IL F A RU BL I E T
11 Garnook Grove Badger Creek, HEALESVILLE 3777 Melways 278 HD
OPENING HOURS: THURSDAY - MONDAY 10AM-5PM CLOSED TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY www.blueberrywinery.com.au PHONE: 5962 1601 Touristnews
SUMMER 2013 35
FRESH FROM THE FARM
VICTORIAN STRAWBERRY FIELDS FRUIT
VEGETABLES
JAMS
SAUCES
Naturally Sweetened Sugar Free Jams using ‘Stevia plant’ Fresh Berries & Cherries available
A family owned and run business for over 30 years. It’s all about the taste! You won’t find a sweeter strawberry! Open 7 days from 9am – 5pm
451 Warrandyte-Ringwood Road, Warrandyte South, 3134, VIC, AUSTRALIA Ph: 0409 411 402
Frozen Berries available all year.
WELCOME to our fresh fruit farm, W where all our Berries, Figs, Jams & Sauces are home grown and bottled super fresh. Wide range of Jams, Relishes, sauces and much much more.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.
162 MONBULK ROAD, SILVAN 3796 PH (03) 9737 9549 www.victorianstrawberryfields.com.au
1010935-BM53-13
• Fresh strawberries • Award winning strawberry jam and strawberry sauce • Delicious homemade strawberry ice-cream, pure strawberry milkshakes & smoothies • Locally produced chutney, honey, oil and condiments • Other berries available when in season and plenty more local produce.
WANDIN VALLEY FARMS FRESH AUSTRALIAN
Cherries Growers / Packers / Marketers of the finest Victorian and Tasmanian Cherries
Come and buy your fresh cherries direct from the packing shed door! 1098825-SL50-13
Export Quality and Seconds available Small, Medium, Large and Extra Large cherries available from 500grams to 5kg cases
Shop Sales
Open 7 days 8am to 5pm
Closed Xmas Day and New Years Day Check www.wandinvalleyfarms.com.au for any updates on shop opening times and days Tel: 0359 644 669 | Fax: 03 59 642 103 | Email: admin@wandinvalleyfarms.com.au
36 SUMMER 2013
Touristnews
KOOKABERRY STRAWBERRY FARM T. & F. Caltieri
Fresh & Frozen Berries - Now available
NOW AVAILABLE THAT SPECIAL GIFT FOR YOU! WEDDING BOMBONIERES.
BULK ORDERS AVAILABLE FOR CAFES AND TEA ROOMS, GOURMET HAMPERS AVAILABLE, HOME MADE JAMS, SYRUPS & VINEGARS.
Award winning products. 2013 SYDNEY FINE FOOD AWARDS FOR RASPBERRY VINEGAR AND CHAMPION SAVORY PRODUCT. CHAMPION REGIONAL FOOD EXHIBIT
25 Lewis Road, Wandin. Ph: 9737 9586, 0415 768 222 email: natcal@iprimus.com.au www. www.kookaberry.com.au
1097433-BM47-13
FRESH FROM THE FARM
FRESH FROM THE FARM 1097502-SL50-13
CHERRIES RASPBERRIES BLACKBERRIES STRAWBERRIES KRIMSONBERRIES HOME MADE JAMS U-Pick or Buy Fresh on the farm Open 7 days Ph: 9737 9534 www.upick.com.au
TRACTOR FRUIT TASTINGS TOURS RUNNING ALL SUMMER. Lots of Fruit varieties. Stone fruit available all Summer and into Autumn! 10 - 12 varieties of Fruit for tasting on tours running December - September. Peach cafe serving snacks, Lunches and Devonshire Teas 7 days, open till 5pm over Summer. Lunch & Tour specials for groups.
TOURS ALL YEAR ROUND IN 2014
New varieties of fruit produce available in our shop, jams, relishes, bottled fruit, fruit leathers, fruit pies and new season stone fruit
5964 7654 Cafe open 7 days throughout the year 60 Schoolhouse Rd, Woori Yallock
www.raynerstonefruit.com.au
1100815-SL50-13
1101037-JL50-13
Fresh from the Farm…
Fresh Frozen U-Pick • ‘Pick Your Own’ or buy fresh picked berries and cherries from the farm gate • Berry Lane Café open during season times • Homemade berry jams • See our website for season times and latest information • Just 1 hour’s drive from Melbourne • We hope you enjoy your day! U Pick Cherries 30 Chapman Road, Silvan www.upickcherries.com.au U Pick Berries & Fresh Fruit Sales, 27 Parker Road, Silvan. www.upickberries.com.au
PH: 9737 9400 38 SUMMER 2013
Touristnews
FASHION
Fashionable finds
BY KATH GANNAWAY WARBURTON may be at the end of the line ... but it’s absolutely in line when it comes to boutique shopping for one-of-a-kind summer fashion and accessories. The charm of Warburton is in its historic buildings, many of them now cafes that have opened their back doors to take in views of the magnificent Yarra River. Strip shopping in central Warburton and in the intriguingly named ‘LaLa’ end of town offers quaint book shops, artisan clothing and jewellery, along with opportunities to grab something uniquely ‘retro’ for a bargain price. Anita Easson from the sweetsmelling Sassy Soaps, went exploring for an outfit that shouts “summer style”. “I started with the dress which I think really speaks of summer with bright, happy colours, and light easy-to wear cotton that makes it so versatile. “I chose the bag because it picks up the magenta in the dress, adds a splash of colour and, again is versatile in that you can sling it over your shoulder to leave you hands-free. The shoes are a really comfortable and quality leather pump and were an absolute bargain. The necklace really suits the era of the dress and I thought the lovely detail of the little flower on the side was quite unusual. I chose the bracelet and earrings complement the necklace without competing too much.”
Dress Red Mud Hut
$139 Shoes Vinnies
$3.50 Bag Red Mud Hut
$79 Necklace Earth Bazaar
$75 Bracelet Vinnies
$2 Earrings Living Element
$11.95 Sunglasses Tony Bianco Living Element
$95
Touristnews
SUMMER 2013 39
Feel at your best BY REBECCA BILLS THE lead-up to Christmas can often be extremely stressful. Christmas function after Christmas function, end of school recitals, finishing up at work for the year, organising Christmas, the list goes on. But taking the time out to indulge in some TLC can be just what the doctor ordered to keep you feeling fresh and happy throughout these busy summer months. Be it a facial to clear the pores, a full-body massage to release all the built up aches and pains or a relaxing manicure and pedicure, indulging in some ‘me’ time can be just the thing to get your through. Although some may think the Yarra Valley is all about the food and wine, it is home to some of the most prestigious and well regarded day spas in the region. Named Top Spa of the World by Conde Nast Traveler Magazine, Natskin flagship site situated at Balgownie Vineyard Resort and Spa is one of the best when it comes to skin care treatments in the area. Liz Montgomery from Natskin, said going into the summer months keep your skin look happy and healthy is key. A day spa experience does not have to be a solo experience, it is a chance to get the girls together for a day of pampering or bring your partner for a more romantic experience. The serenity and tranquillity of your mini-escape will take you far away from the hustle and bustle of life leaving you feeling invigorated and ready to tackle summer. And to make the most of your day spa experience, make sure you arrive on time. Mention Tourist News when you make your booking to receive a 15 per cent discount when you book an appointment Monday to Friday or if you book with a friend receive a 25 per cent discount before 25 December. Natskin Spa Retreat is at the Balgownie Estate, 1309 Melba Highway, Yarra Glen. For more information, visit www.natskin.com or call 9730 2866. 40 SUMMER 2013
Indulge in an underwater massage at Natskin. Picture: CONTRIBUTED
Touristnews
Natskin Spa Retreat No visit to the yarra valley is complete without Natskin. The spa retreat in the vineyards is perfect for: Massage & Spa Therapy Facials Waxing & Grooming Group Get Aways Bridal Parties Couples Make-up & Nail Care Christmas Gift Vouchers
Visit our website for our gorgeous Christmas & Summer packages www.natskin.com Natskin Spa Retreat at Balgownie Resort 1309 Melba Highway, Yarra Glen 03 9730 2866
Fun, Natural, Candid ‘Unique’ Portrait & Wedding Photography!
Nine Grangehair & beauty
1098717-BM53-13
1097523-SL50-13
Ph: 0400 182 245 www.kmackphotography.com studio@kmackphotography.com
1089129-SL45-13
Nine Grange Hair and Beauty specialise in hair up styling and make up artistry. We offer a 24 hours 7 days a week service. We understand the importance of your Wedding Day. We offer on-site or Full salon service.
Ph: 9730 2570 Shop 9, 38-40 Bell Street, Yarra Glen Touristnews
SUMMER 2013 41
1098724-BM53-13
PELLEGRINO’S
FRESH FRUITS RETAIL WAREHOUSE
8 SUNSET AVE OLINDA. (ACROSS FROM MT DANDY HOTEL BEHIND THE SHOPS)
OPEN WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY 9AM-5PM
PRODUCTS INCLUDE: • Fresh fruit and veg locally grown at • • • •
• Range of pet food horses, cats, dogs, rabbits, chickens etc wholesale prices • Firewood Grass fed beef, free range chicken Lamb, gourmet sausages fresh meat • Mushroom mulch department • Soil Fresh deli with over 60 types of • Chicken manure cheeses • Sheep manure etc Gourmet groceries local and All products are sold retail and wholesale imported
ALSO SERVICING THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY WITH WHOLSALE FRESH FRUIT AND VEGETABLES • Hotels • Nursing homes • Hospitals • Cafes (no order too large or too small)
Contacts Paul: 0417 593 253 Tony: 0417 105 154
42 SUMMER 2013
Warehouse: 9751 0525 Offices: 9879 0160 Fax: 9879 0564
Touristnews
MARKETS
The grower’s
The Ferntree Gully market - located at the foothills of Mount Dandenong at the Upper Ferntree Gully Railway Station on the Burwood Highway - has been running for over 40 years. The Gully Market offers a number of stalls, including local fruit shop Pellegrino’s Fresh Fruit. Head down and pick up a special item or two from over 30 different stalls. It’s open every Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 3pm except public holidays.
3rd SUNDAY FEB - OCT 1st & 3rd SUNDAYS NOV - DEC 8.30am - 1.00pm
Alistair Knox Park, Panther Place, Eltham (Melways Reference 21-J5)
Email: elthammarket25@gmail.com Mobile: 0401 288 027 Pictures: KIM CARTMELL AND GREG CARRICK Touristnews
1097445-SL50-13
Sunday 1 December 2013 Sunday 15 December 2013 Sunday 16 February 2014 Sunday 16 March 2014
visit www.elthammarket.com.au for more information SUMMER 2013 43
MARKETS
Every 9.00am to 3.00pm S A T U R D A Y & S Association Inc. A00 350 76K U The little market with a BIG reputation at the gateway to the hills N D olders Welcome lh al St ay nd Su ew N crafts A of plants, soaps, jewelery and quality iety var e wid a ls, stal d foo hot Fruit & vegies, Y s for Sundays -
The Gully Market
- Special rate
1098816-SL50-13
Railway carpark, Burwood Highway Upper Ferntree Gully (Opposite Royal Hotel)
All enquiries 0417 599 466 www.gullymarket.com | http/facebook.com/gullymarket
Every 4th Sunday of the month December 22nd, January 26th, February 23rd
• Fruit, Vegies • Bric-a-brac • Free Recycled Clothing • Flowers, plants, Herbs • Recycled Metal Pizza Ovens • Cakes, Preservative Free Breads • Local Wine, Hot food, Drinks • Arts & Crafts • Pet Treats Enquiries: 0437 664 121 Melway 312 K10 Pakenham, Emerald 15 minutes gembrookmarket.com.au
1096600-SL50-13
Gembrook Market
Puffing Billy Station, Gembrook Market Day 9am-2pm•
Yarra Valley Regional Farmers’ Market Market held on the 3rd Sunday each month at: The Barn at Yering Station, 38 Melba Highway, Yarra Glen, Victoria Buy direct from the grower, producer or maker. Producers offer the best local, fresh, seasonal fruits, vegetables and other goods. Join in the fun of a traditional indoor village market. Take home some delicious surprises for your family and friends.
1086410-JL37-13
Sunday December 15th (Father Christmas appearing) Sunday January 19th, 2014 Sunday Febuary 16th, 2014
Live Music
Market Hours 9.00am to 2.00pm. Free Parking and Entry. For further information on Yarra Valley Regional Farmers’ Market phone 9739 0122
w w w. y a r r a v a l l e y f o o d . c o m . a u 44 SUMMER 2013
e: info@yarravalleyfood.com.au Touristnews
MARKETS
Kallista Community Market 1st Saturday of the month 9am-1pm, 2 Church Street Enjoy the vibrant village atmosphere and visit our market nestled in the Hills for handmade, homemade, homegrown, recycled, food and great coffee. UPCOMING MARKET DATES...
1037097-CR36-12
1097448-SL50-13
December 7th • December 21st February 1st • March 1st Bookings and Inquiries: Amy 0402 012 247
The Rotary Clubs of Montrose and District, Lilydale and Chirnside Park invite you to the
Drop by for the freshest º`g\pa jp`m b]\ jXpm! 435 Monbulk Rd, Monbulk – under the elm tree. /theroadstall to see our weekly specials. Open 7 days. Ph. 0409 991 173 1036633-KG32-12
Lilydale Farmers Fresh Produce Market The market is held on the first Sunday each month from 8.00am to 1.00pm at Bellbird Park, Swansea Road, Lilydale (next to Lillydale Lake). Lots of fresh produce, lots of parking. Any queries please ring Rotarian Lynn Whelan 0409 938 694. Proceeds go to local and international Rotary projects.
Emerald Craft & Produce Market
The Emerald Market includes outdoor stalls and also indoor stalls at the Community House. You will find everything you need including heritage fruit trees, certified organic fresh produce, wines, plants and flowers, herbs, homemade jams, chutneys, olives and oils, natural soaps, detergents, skin care, jewellery, handcrafts, knits and clothing, toys and novelties, pottery, cards, cakes, giftware, dog friendly as well as yummy take-away food . . .
Indoor
Emerald Community House Old Hall & Child Care 354 Main Emerald ain Rd, Em
Dates for 2013: December 15 Dates for 2014: February 16 March 17 3rd Sunday of each month 9am–3pm 1097434-SL5-13
2 IN ONE MARKET
Outdoor td d
1 Kilvington Dve Cnr of Main Rd, Emerald
Enquiries: echmarket@iinet.net.au
5968 3881, 0419 345 750
www.emeraldcommunityhouse.org.au
Plastic bag free
Touristnews
SUMMER 2013 45
ACCOMMODATION
In time for luxury living BY REBECCA BILLS NESTLED in the winding roads of Mount Dandenong is the jewel of Dandenongs accommodation. Loft in The Mill Boutique Accommodation brings to life 19th century luxury living in the picturesque surrounds of Olinda. This little piece of heaven ensures visitors leave feeling rested and revitalised after indulging in long baths in large double spas while being treated to decadent and delicious foods or pampered by inroom massage treatments. Each room is self-contained with romantic four-poster beds, private courtyards and the Garden of Eden boasting its own fountain to aid relaxation. With the four and a half star property’s eight privately entranced suites adorned with uniquely decorations, guests are taken back in time against the romantic backdrop of castle like buildings. For those wanting a premium experience, the Hathaway and King Arthur suites provide all modern luxuries with a medieval feel. Guests on a smaller budget have the option of the Tudor or Victorian suites which both provide intimate and romantic, cosy rooms in which they can snuggle up with their loved one.
In the evenings, deer and kangaroos graze in the gardens wandering up from the adjacent Dandenong Ranges National Park. The Loft in the Mill was built 24 years ago out of 150-year-old convict cut bluestone and is a replica 19th century stagecoach stop with each stone individually cut to fit its space and carefully tapped into place. As the mortar between the stones was setting, stonemasons raked and brushed to create the professional stonework that is on show today. The solid masonry structures of the buildings with the de-constructed walls are a signature of the property and create individuality that provides uniqueness in each room through size and décor. In 2007 the property changed hands and underwent four years of renovations, room by room, to ensure the elegance and distinctiveness of each room was maintained. The Loft in The Mill has been the recipient of many awards including the Victorian Tourism Award for Best Hosted Accommodation Venue and continues to wow guests. This is a place where beautiful memories will be made. The Loft in the Mill is located at 1602 Mount Dandenong Tourist Road, Olinda. For more information, phone 9751 1700 or visit www.loftinthemill.com.au.
One of the suites at The Loft in The Mill ready for you to visit. Inset: The Loft in The Mill Hathaway Suite.
Lit
candles
1095356-BM53-13
Marysville’s Tower Motel is situated in the heart of town, providing clean, quiet accommodation. A private courtyard and with an indoor sitting room & seperate dining area. Walking distance to major attractions, cafes and retail shops. It is the perfect base for your stay in Marysville.
& beyond
Picture: KIM CARTMELL Picture: CONTRIBUTED
18 Murchison st, Marysville, VIC 3779 M: 0422239754 www.lit.com.au
Lit
candles
the tower MOTEL Marysville 33 Murchison St, MARYSVILLE, VIC 3779 Ph: 03 5963 3225 www.towermotel.com.au
46 SUMMER 2013
lit candles lit & beyond
Wholesale/Retail Touristnews
ACCOMMODATION
Apple Porch Cottage
WarburtonLODGE
Apple Porch Cottage, Yarra Glen, Vic. 3775
Mobile 0413 605 237
www.appleporchcottage.com.au
18 Park Rd, Warburton 3777 Ph 5966 2037 www.warburtonlodge.com.au
Sites, Cabins and Lodge on the banks of the Yarra River surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery. Enjoy walking or cycling the trails. Bring your canoe or just relax and go fishing. Situated close to Mt Donna Buang and Upper Yarra Dam. Central for exploring the Upper Yarra Valley and Yarra Ranges National Park.
Phone 5966 2277
1072982-SL19-13
Warburton Caravan Park 1073652-SL20-13
Warburton Lodge is a motel which has wonderful facilities (tennis court, conference centre, BBQ areas, etc.) and is wonderfully located to take advantage of the sites and views of the Yarra Valley. If you are looking for a place to stay in Warburton, then choose the motel with atmosphere and heritage; Warburton Lodge, a wonderful motel in the Yarra Valley.
• Private Self Contained Suites • Spa • Open Fire • Close to all scenic drives etc. in the Yarra Valley
1072995-SL19-13
Romantic Old World Accommodation
Situated in the most scenic part of Warburton with spectacular views of Mt Victoria, Mt Donna Buang and the Yarra Ranges National Park. Warburton Lodge is a relaxing hotel for a quiet time or as a base from which to explore and discover this very special environmental wonderland.
Located at the base of the Dandenong foothills, the Dorset Gardens Hotel is the perfect place to stay. Whether you’re on business, attending a conference or looking for a place to relax and stay, our motel accommodation caters for all needs with a variety of room types available. Located adjacent to the Hotel complex, guests can also enjoy the convenience of all the Hotel facilities in close proximity.
Our helpful and friendly staff are on hand and look forward to making sure your stay is a relaxing & comfortable experience.
Other facilities the venue offers: * Family Bistro * Conference & Function Facilities * Night Club * Sports Bar & Beer Garden * TAB Lounge * Drive Thru bottle shop * Courtesy Bus
445032-SH22-11
Our 3.5 star motel accommodation provides spacious rooms with all the amenities guests require. The property offers 45 motel style rooms including 2 family rooms, double & twin and a newly refurbished 5 bedroom apartment with private courtyard.
For more information on all our motel/hotel and functions facilities please contact us on 03 9725 6211 or visit our web site on www.dorsetgardenshotel.com.au 335 Dorset Rd Croydon 3136 Touristnews
SUMMER 2013 47
CELLAR DOOR
BY REBECCA BILLS WHEN visiting the Yarra Valley, good food and good wine is always on the agenda. With a wealth of real style and character, Kellybrook Winery is one of only a handful of wineries in the area that is still owed by the original family. This wine oasis located in the old Yarra Valley orchard belt is a scene where old meets new with delectable food, wine and cider. Founded in 1962 by Darren and Farley Kelly who made still and sparkling cider from apples grown in their orchard, the winery has now evolved into a food and dining focal point on the Yarra Valley Cider and Ale trail. Darren Kelly said Kellybrook was the first licensed winery in the Yarra Valley opening to the public in 1970. Mr Kelly said that what makes their winery different from the rest in the region is the modest building visitors are greeted with that shows a family organisation that has come up over a long period of 43 years of hard work. Mr Kelly said coming into summer cider should be the drink of choice.
wine oasis “The Kelly Brothers apple cider is a nice medium dry cider whereas the pear cider is somewhat sweeter and appeals to people who are starting to enjoy the different sorts of ciders available,” he said. “Another summer favourite, which is not one you would have every day but is more interesting, is the cider we started with in 1969, our champagne cider. “It is bottle fermented in the same way as French champagne and is the top of the range as far as our ciders go.” The restaurant is able to cater to up to 90 people for a seated function or 120 for a cocktail style event. Kellybrook Winery and Restaurant is located on Fulford Road, Wonga Park, and is the closest Yarra Valley winery to the city. The cellar door is open Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sunday 11am to 5pm with the restaurant open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from noon for lunch and Friday and Saturday from 6.30pm for dinner. For more information on Kellybrook or to book, visit www. kellybrookwinery.com.au or call 9722 1304.
YILEENA PARK
Enjoy a 2012 Kellybrook Rose in the garden.
A selection of cider’s available at Kellybrook. Pictures: KIM CARTMELL
Giverny
FAMILY OWNED BOUTIQUE CELLAR DOOR
Estate
Hand crafted Award Winning Wines
We are only a one hour drive from Melbourne, so why not visit Giverny Estate and sample our wines, after a leisurely drive through the Yarra Valley.
of Yarra Valley
Premium Boutique Wines
OPENING THURSDAY - MONDAY 11am - 5pm 271 Steels Creek Road, Yarra Glen, 3775 Phone 9730 1977 or 9730 2922 www.yileenapark.com.au
Giverny Estate
Magnificent Views • Cheese platters available
1081186-SL35-13
Orchard belt
KIWI FRUIT WINE & CIDER Open Friday, Saturday and Sunday and Public Holidays 10am to 4pm Sample our wines and cider 69 Cherry Lane, Toolangi Phone: (03) 5962 9421 Fax: (03) 5962 9180 www.givernyestate.com
1017015-SH10-12
48 SUMMER 2013
Touristnews
GALLERIES
The Hut at the heart of art BY REBECCA BILLS IT IS one of the oldest and most active arts societies in Melbourne and it is gearing up to celebrate 70 years of art in 2014. The Ferntree Gully Arts Society’s The Hut is a hub full of diligently crafted works of art by local artists, both well-known and emerging. First opening its doors in 1944, The Ferntree Gully Arts Society began after a letter by local potter Allan Lowe. In the letter Mr Lowe suggested that an art exhibition should be held to develop the cultural and appreciative level of residents with the money raised to be donated to the Red Cross to aid fighting men. History tells that after a fruitful exhibition showcasing works by Australian art personalities including Arthur Streeton, Louis Buvelot, William Rickets, Merrick Boyd and Albert Namatjira, the society was formed - and so too was the gallery that is still going strong today. It was then in 1951 that the Tuesday night Sketch Club was formed which became a staple to the society’s calendar and was very popular with artists from the ‘big smoke’ who travelled from the city to the little hut by train to get involved. Volunteer at The Hut Gallery Betty Vella said it is one of the oldest organisations in Ferntree Gully and stands as an icon through its rich cultural heritage. “The Hut building oozes history,” she said.
Touristnews
“In 1947, soon after the arts society was formed, an old army hut was moved from Darley, near Bacchus Marsh, to the Underwood Road site. “Over the years the building has been added to, modified, painted several times and re-roofed.” The not-for-profit organisation is run by members who all volunteer their time. To celebrate 70 years of The Hut Gallery, a month long exhibition of artwork from their historic collection will be displayed in conjunction with two high tea afternoons with music and discussion. More information in regards to the events will be available early next year. The community gallery and studio is now home to various weekly classes and workshops in painting, drawing, printmaking as well as weekly life drawing sessions, and continues to host regular exhibitions of local artists from around the Dandenongs. Over February the gallery will be holding a portrait exhibition called ‘Let’s Face It’, followed by the ‘Pen and Paint’ exhibition where artists interpret poems from a poetry group. The Hut Gallery is at 157 Underwood Road, Ferntree Gully, and is open every Sunday from 11am to 4pm. For more information visit thehutgallery.wordpress.com or phone 9758 8955.
SUMMER 2013 49
LISTINGS
gallery, market & cellar door listings GALLERY LISTINGS ACME ET AL 17 Bell Street Yarra Glen Phone: 9730 1552 Open: Thurs– Sun 10am–5pm Mon – Wed by appointment www.acme-etal.com ART AT LINDEN GATE 899 Healesville Yarra Glen Road, Yarra Glen Open Fri – Mon 10am–5 pm Every day during School Holidays ARTE ON YARRA STUDIO Silk Art Healesville Phone: 0439 137 212 Rochford Market Open by appointment BRUNO’S SCULPTURE GARDEN 51 Falls Road, Marysville Phone: 5963 3513 www.brunosart.com DEN OF ANTIQUITIES 25A Bell Street, Yarra Glen Open: Wed – Mon 10.30am–5pm Phone: 9730 2111, 0413 454 966 DENISE SMITH ARTIST ‘WRENDALE WILDLIFE STUDIO’ 3 Anderson Road, Healesville 10am–5pm every 3rd weekend of the month or by appointment Phone: 0408 351 700 Email: densarts@tadaust.org.au www.denisesmith.com.au DI KING GALLERY 32 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville Open by appointment Phone: 5962 2557, 0414 404 798 www.diking.com.au
THE HUT GALLERY 157 Underwood Road, Ferntree Gully Open Sundays 11am–4pm Phone: 9758 8955 www.vicnet.net.au/~thehut WAREHOUSE ANTICS 242 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville Open; Thurs – Mon 11am – 4pm WARRANTINA LAVENDER FARM 105 Quayle Road, Wandin Yallock Open: Wed – Sun 10am–4pm Phone: 5964 4650 www.warratinalavender.com.au YARRA VALLEY GIFTS 24 Bell Street, Yarra Glen Email:shop@yarravalleygifts.com.au Phone: 03 9730 1134
SUMMER MARKET LISTINGS ELTHAM COMMUNITY CRAFT & PRODUCE MARKET Panther Place, Eltham. 3rd Sunday of month , 8.30am–1pm Phone: 0401 288 027 EMERALD CRAFT AND PRODUCE MARKET Indoor: Emerald Community House 354 Main Road Emerald Outdoor: 1 Kilvington Drive Emerald 3rd Sunday of each month Email: echmarket@iinet.net.au Phone: 59683881or 0419345750 www.elthammarket.com.au
LITTLE YARRA MARKET 205 Little Yarra Road, Yarra Junction Every 3rd Sat of the month 8am–2pm Phone 0414 258 490 enquiries@littleyarramarket.com
BULONG ESTATE WINERY, CELLAR DOOR & RESTAURANT 70 Summerhill Road, Yarra Junction Cellar Door ,Open 7 days. Restaurant Open Fri –Sun Phone: 5967 1358 www.bulongestate.com.au
http://littleyarramarket.com/ LILYDALE FARMERS’ FRESH PRODUCE MARKET Bellbird Park, Swansea Rd, Lilydale (next to Lillydale Lake) 1st Sun of each month 8am–1pm
COLDSTREAM HILLS 31 Maddens Lane, Coldstream Open: 10am–5pm daily Phone: 5960 7000 www.coldstreamhills.com.au
MONT DE LANCEY COUNTRY MARKET 71 Wellington Rd, Wandin North 2nd Sat of month 9am–1pm Phone: 5964 2088 www.montdelancey.org.au TESSELAAR GARDENING & PLANTS EXPO 357 Monbulk Road Silvan (Melway Ref 123B5) 5th and 6th April 2014 phone; 9737 7777 WARRANDYTE MARKET Stiggants Reserve Yarra St, Warrandyte First Sat of month 9am– 1pm Phone: 9844 4495 www.warrandytemarket.com.au YARRA JUNCTION MARKET Warburton Highway at the Football Reserve, Yarra Junction 2nd & 4th Saturday of the month 9am-1pm Feb-Dec Phone 9844 4495 YARRA VALLEY REGIONAL FOOD GROUP FARMERS’ MARKET The Barn, Yering Station Winery 38 Melba Hwy, Yarra Glen 3rd Sun of each month 9am–2pm Phone: 9739 0122 or 0415 768 222 www.yarravalleyfood.com.au
HEALESVILLE JEWELLERS 197a Maroondah Hwy, Healesville Open: 10am–5pm 7 days Phone: 5962 5195 www.healesvillejewellers.com.au
GEMBROOK MARKET Puffing Billy Station Main St, Gembrook 4th Sun of month 9am ands 3pm Phone: 0437 664 121 www.gembrookmarket.com.au
MONT DE LANCEY 71 Wellington Road, Wandin Open: Wed – Sun 10am–5pm Group Bookings available Phone: 5964 2088 www.montdelancy.org.au
GULLY MARKET UFTG Railway Station Car Park Burwood Hwy, Ferntree Gully Every Sat & Sun 9am–3pm Phone: 0417 599 466
THROUGH THE CELLAR DOOR
HEALESVILLE COMMUNITY MARKET River Street Car Park, Healesville 1st Sun of month 8am–1.30pm Phone: 0488 445 112
BADGER CREEK BLUEBERRY FARM 11 Garnook Grove, Badger Creek Open: 10am–5pm Thurs – Mon Phone: 5962 1601 www.blueberrywinery.com.au
SHERBROOKE ART SOCIETY GALLERY 62 Monbulk Road, Belgrave Open: 11am–4pm (closed Tues) Phone: 9754 4264 Gallery Manager www.sherbrookartsociety.com
HEALESVILLE SENIOR CITIZENS CRAFT MARKET Cnr Green & River Street, Healesville 1st Sun of each month Phone: 0419 697 022
BALGOWNIE ESTATE Cnr Melba Highway & Gulf Road, Yarra Glen Open 10am–5pm daily Phone 9730 0785 www.balgownieestate.com.au
SILVERMIST STUDIO 136 Maroondah Highway, Healesville Open: Thurs – Sun 10am–5pm incl. Public holidays Phone: 5962 5470 www.silvermiststudio.com.au
KALLISTA COMMUNITY MARKET Church Street, Kallista 1st Sat of each month 9am–1pm Handmade, Handgrown & Recycled Phone: 9754 4930
REDGUM GALLERY Shop 3, 47-53 Olinda Monbulk Rd, Olinda Weekdays 11am–4pm, Weekends 10am–5pm Closed Tuesdays Phone: 9751 2526
50 SUMMER 2013
GIVERNY ESTATE 69 Cherrys Lane, Toolangi Open: 10am–4pm Weekends Phone: 5962 9421 www.givernyestate.com KILLARA ESTATE VINEYARD & CELLAR DOOR Cnr Warburton Hwy & Sunnyside Road, Seville East Wed – Sun 10am–5pm Phone: 5961 5877 www.killaraestate.com.au PUNT ROAD WINES 10 St Huberts Road, Coldstream Open: 10am–5pm daily Phone: 9739 0666 www.puntroadwines.com.au ROCHFORD WINES Cnr Maroondah Highway & Hill Rd, Coldstream Open: 9am–5pm 7 days Phone: 5962 2119 www.rochfordwines.com.au SEVILLE HILL WINERY 8 Paynes Rd, Seville Open: 10am–6pm 7 days Phone: 5964 3284 www.sevillehill.com.au ST HUBERTS VINEYARD Cnr St Huberts Road & Maroondah Highway, Coldstream Open: 9.30am–5pm Weekdays & 10.30am–5pm Weekends Phone: 5960 7096 www.sthuberts.com.au TOKAR ESTATE 6 Maddens Lane, Coldstream Open: 10.30am–5pm daily Phone: 5964 9585 www.tokarestate.com.au WHISPERING HILLS 580 Warburton Highway, Seville Open: 10am–6pm 7 days Ph: 5964 2822 www.whisperinghills.com.au YILEENA PARK 245 Steels Creek Rd, Yarra Glen Open: 11am–5pm Thurs – Mon Phone: 9730 1977 www.yileenapark.com.au
Touristnews
CALENDAR
Calendar of events DECEMBER
1
Now and Then at Burrinja Cafe, Upwey. 9754 8723.
1
The Warby Artisans and Produce Market, Warburton. 0423 9511 37.
1
Bach Cello Suites at Montrose Town Centre, Montrose. 9761 9133.
1-8
Jessica Dib-Newbery and Alan Newbery The Other Side of the Rock at Jarmbi Gallery, Upwey. 9754 8723.
1-8
Danuta Bieber and Narelle Tresize-Hardy: Limen at Jarmbi Gallery, Upwey. 9754 8723.
5
Lesley McMillian Morning Melodies at the Ferntree Gully Hotel, Ferntree Gully. 9758 6544.
6
Legends Tribute Show at Burrinja Cafe, Upwey. 9754 8723.
7
Alicia Keys at Rochford Winery, Coldstream. 5962 2119.
7
Sunset Santa Special at Puffing Billy, Belgrave. 9757 0700.
7
Family Christmas at Mandala, Dixons Creek. 5965 2016.
7-31
Lavender Harvest at Warratina Lavender Farm, Wandin Yallock. 5964 4650.
10
Babette’s Feast at The Arts Centre, Warburton. 5966 4500.
12
Drawing in the Dark at Healesville Memorial Hall, Healesville. 1300 368 333.
13
Jimmy Barnes at The Middle, Ferntree Gully. 9758 6544.
13
Christmas with Geoff Achison at Burrinja Cafe. Upwey. 9754 8723.
13
Yarra Valley Pacing Cup Day, Yarra Glen. 9730 1332.
14
Mont De Lancey Country Market, Wandin Yallock. 5964 2088.
14
Sunset Santa Special at Puffing Billy, Belgrave. 9757 0700.
15
Osmosis at Burrinja Cafe, Upwey. 9754 8723.
17
Stones Christmas Show with Joe Camillieri and The Black Sorrows, Coldstream. 9739 0900.
17
Babette’s Feast at The Memo, Healesville. 5966 4500.
Touristnews
18
Stones Christmas Show with James Reyne, Coldstream. 9739 0900. 20 Yarra Valley Racing Christmas Meeting, Yarra Glen. 9730 1332. 22 Paul Jamieson at Burrinja Cafe, Upwey. 9754 8723. 26-30 Lotus Flower Season at Blue Lotus Water Garden, Yarra Junction. 5967 2061. JANUARY
2 7 14-16 16 18 24 26 26
Dining with Spirit at Burrinja Cafe, Upwey. 9754 8723. Yarra Valley Racing Family Day, Yarra Glen. 9730 1332. Grape Grazing Festival, Yarra Glen. 9730 2447. Yarra Valley Racing Harness Weekend, Yarra Glen. 9730 1332. Murder on the Puffing Billy Express, Belgrave. 9757 0700. Murder on the Puffing Billy Express, Belgrave. 9757 0700. Yarra Valley Racing Australia Day, Yarra Glen. 9730 1332. Australia Day barbecue at Oakridge, Coldstream. 9738 9900.
FEBRUARY
1
Black Saturday Remembrance Cruise from Lilydale Industrial Park carport. 0421 321 203. 1 Murder on the Puffing Billy Express, Belgrave. 9757 0700. 8 Rocka’ Billy Country Train at Puffing Billy, Belgrave. 9757 0700. 14 Valentine’s Day at Puffing Billy. Belgrave. 9757 0700. 16 Yarra Valley Racing Mid-Summer Raceday, Yarra Glen. 9730 1332. 16 Victorian 4WD Show, Wandin North. 9786 0728. 21 Come Together at Burrinja Cafe, Upwey. 9754 8723. 22-23 Pottery Expo, Warrandyte. 0422 942 216. 24 Yarra Valley Race Harness Weekday, Yarra Glen. 9730 1332.
SUMMER 2013 51
WINERY & RESTAURANT 6 Maddens Lane, Coldstream
Cellar Door Award winning wines Lunch Dinner Weddings
1012342-BM53-13
Corporate functions
Cellar Door - Open 7 Days from 10am to 5pm Restaurant - Open 7 Days for Lunch from 12 noon & Dinner Saturday Evenings from 6:30pm. Evening Functions by Arrangement. t: (03) 5964 9585
f: (03) 5964 9587 e:sales@tokarestate.com.au
www.Tokarestate.com.au