Tourist News Spring 2021

Touristnews YARRA VALLEY, THE DA DANDENONGS AND THE RANGES

SPRING 2021

FREE

THINGS TO DO IN MAGICAL MONBULK EXPLORE THE WONDERFUL WATERFALLS DRIVE THE MT DANDENONG TOURIST ROAD

SPRING

IS IN THE AIR

CONTENTS

SPRING 2021

8

10-17

18

22-29

30-31

32-33

34-36

37

WONDERFUL WATERFALLS

GARDENS

DANDENONG RANGES

WINERIES

EDITOR Garry Howe Email: editor@mailcommunity.com.au ADVERTISING Tracey Aitken Star Mail, 244 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville 3777.

Phone: 5957 3700, Fax: 5957 3777, Email: advertising@mailcommunity.com.au DESIGN Star News Group, Creative Services Department, Cnr Princes Hwy & Army Rd, Pakenham 3810, Phone: 5945 0666

ACCOMMODATION

FARM FRESH

YARRA VALLEY, VALLEY Y THE DA DANDENONGS AND THE RANGES

SPRING 2021

FREE

EXPLORE THE WONDERFUL WATERFALLS DRIVE THE MT DANDENONG TOURIST ROAD

PUBLISHED BY Star Mail, 244 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville 3777, PO Box 470 MANAGING DIRECTOR Paul Thomas

SPRING

IS IN THE AIR

2 SPRING 2021

MARKETS

Touristnews THINGS TO DO IN MAGICAL MONBULK

YARRA VALLEY

COVER: The Marysville Information and Regional Artspace (MiRA) offers friendly tourist information, the Phoenix Museum (about the 2009 fires), as well as a retail space stocking locally made artisan wares and produce. They now have two beautiful exhibition spaces with exhibitions all year round.

Marysville Information and Regional Artspace is a tourist attraction on its own. See page 25.

The cover photo of Gallipoli Park Marysville was taken by Anne Ritchie.

Touristnews

MONBULK

1

5

THINGS to do in MONBULK 3

2

Baynes Park Cog Bike Shop

Conveniently located in the heart of Monbulk, Cog Bike Shop is the perfect place to jump on a hired bike and pedal through some of the Dandenongs most-loved trails.

80A Main Rd Monbulk.

Baynes Park has a rich history, having operated as a fruit and berry farm prior to the 1960’s. The large soccer ground is surrounded by tall forest and provides a shady spot for an afternoon picnic. A footpath meanders through 40 hectares of parkland for those keen on a shaded stroll.

4

5

Kays Picnic Area Monbulk Bowling Club

Kids eat free, need we say more? The club offers delicious, good value meals and thirstquenching drinks with a warm and welcoming family-friendly atmosphere.

Located along the cool waters of Sassafras Creek, Kays Picnic Area is a tranquil spot for a day trip. The grounds offer BBQ’s and toilets and if you look hard enough, you might just find the secret little freshwater spring.

Visit a nursery

Monbulk is home to some of the Yarra Valley’s best known nurseries.

O linda Cellars

One of Melbourne’s most respected wine, beer and spirit merchants.

You’ll be amazed at what you’ll fine instore!

FREE LOCAL & REGIONAL DELIVERIES*

OPEN 7 DAYS (INCLUDING LOCK DOWN)** Open Mon – Sat 10am to 8pm, Sunday & Public Holidays 11am to 6pm *conditions apply **essential service

Visit us at www.olindacellars.com.au or PH 9751 - 0999 Olinda Cellars – 7/540 Mt Dandenong Tourist Rd Olinda. Victoria. 3788 Touristnews

12511446-SN40-21

SPRING 2021 3

YARRA VALLEY

VALLEY IS POSTCARDS PERFECT

BY JED LANYON THE Yarra Valley had a special visitor recently as Hawthorn legend Shane Crawford journeyed to the region for the latest episode of Postcards.

The Brownlow Medal winner made a few stops along the way to the Valley, visiting The Sebel Melbourne in Ringwood, before continuing down the Maroondah Highway to pick strawberries at Yarra Valley Gateway Estate. He capped off a day-trip by enjoying a nice drop at Fergusson Winery and Restaurant in Yarra Glen.

Speaking to Star Mail, Mr Crawford said he is a regular visitor to the Valley and that it makes for the perfect escape from city life.

“I enjoy it anytime I get to work out that way, I’m always discovering new parts. It’s beautiful and connected to the city in that it’s very easy for people to get out there and enjoy all the rolling hills and find all the hidden treasures as you go along.

“I went to Fergusson Winery, which has been there for a long, long time and it’s just a nice little winery on about 10 acres and was nice to enjoy. Even in the middle of winter, I still enjoy going to the wineries and checking them out.

“One thing I’d like to do more is just go exploring. To just get in the car and go wherever it takes me because there’s so much to discover. I know a lot of people go out there to the wineries to have a look around, but I think if you just get in the car and go in whichever direction you feel, you won’t be disappointed.

“There’s something for everyone of all ages from young kids to a couple having a romantic weekend away. It’s like a hamburger with the lot, I suppose it just depends on which direction you go and what you’re looking for.”

‘Crawf’ enjoyed the opportunity to pick a basket full of strawberries at Yarra Valley Gateway Estate in Coldstream.

“I didn’t know there were places you could pick strawberries all year round because it’s undercover there at the Yarra Valley Gateway Estate,” he said. “They have some beautiful produce and some really nice people there. It’s something cool to do for the whole family.

“They have these unbelievable sausage rolls. You can go along and pick your strawberries and then buy these beautiful chocolate dipping sauces.

“They have bees in the shop and you can see they’re hard at work making honey and it’s just the things like that we can sometimes take for granted to be able to go to a shop where there’s lots of homegrown food and lots of heart and soul put into the place.”

Yarra Valley Gateway Estate co-owner Brett Spurling was happy to welcome the AFL star to his business to shoot the Postcards episode, which aired on Sunday 25 July 5.30pm on Channel 9.

“Shane’s an absolute gentleman, he’s just like you see on TV and is friendly and engaging,” he said. “It’s always good for recognition and people tend to recognise you more.

“The timing of it is fantastic, it’s been a fairly tough time for a lot of businesses, ours included. So having Postcards come out is amazing to have that national coverage.

“It’s great to see these shows come out to the Yarra Valley, it provides recognition to the whole Valley and the exposure brings people out, not just to us, but the whole Yarra Valley. It’s not very often someone comes out to visit just one place.”

The Coldstream producers can bank on seeing another returning customer.

“I’ll be stopping in on the way there or back everytime I hit the road, whether it’s to grab some food for home or have lunch. It’s a good little spot,” Mr Crawford said.

4 SPRING 2021

Postcards host Shane Crawford and Yarra Valley Gateway Estate coowner Brett Spurling.

Shane Crawford enjoyed a visit to Fergusson Winery and Restaurant as part of his trip to the Yarra Valley.

And with Victorians going in and out of lockdown regularly, Mr Crawford stressed the importance of supporting Victorian businesses when the opportunity to unwind and have a weekend away presents itself again.

“We’re so lucky in Victoria that we can drive in any direction from the city and you hit these nuggets of gold everywhere you go. And the Yarra Valley is right up there with the very best, not only in Victoria, but across the world and that’s why Postcards continually goes in that direction because it keeps giving us amazing content.

“Everyone’s been heavily affected by the lockdown, the restaurants shut down and the wineries as well as all the local little shops that live off of tourism, especially on weekends. It’s sad, and that’s why it’s great that Postcards is up and going to give a bit of a cut out for the businesses and a bit of love.

“I’m sure that everyone’s chirping at the bit to get going and we need to give ideas for people to go somewhere and some of the best places are in your backyard, where you don’t have to get your passport or jump borders.”

Touristnews

PUB ICON

HAVE ‘WAN’ FOR SAM...

BY JED LANYON LEGEND has it, English prospector Sam Knott arrived in Australia in the 1880s and found himself mining in the Upper Yarra, but it was a different kind of gold Sam found, a Carlton Ale beer, that led him to coin a popular drinking slogan and an iconic photograph.

Sam Knott’s story differs depending on who you ask, but one version says he was a regular at McVeigh’s Hotel, which later burnt down in 1936. The former site of the pub now sits under the waters of the Upper Yarra Reservoir.

A photographer, believed to be from Carlton United Breweries (CUB) entered the pub one morning and took the iconic photograph of Sam standing drinking his beer. He uttered the famous words “I allus has wan at eleven” to the photographer who saw him enjoying his beer.

In 1907, those words accompanied his image on a poster that would be displayed in pubs and hotels across Victoria for years to come. Some say Knott’s words were: “I allus has wan at eleven, it’s a habit that’s got to be done. Cos if I don’t have wan at eleven, I allus has eleven at one.”

It is said Knott may have even worked for the hotel and was paid wages of one pound a week by Mr McVeigh and would exchange the same note back and forth across the bar to the publican each week.

The National Archives of Australia features the original poster of Sam Knott and notes, “Knott came to Australia from England in the 1880s to try his luck in the gold fields; there is some evidence to suggest that he was working at McVeigh’s Hotel when this photograph was taken; he died soon after, and never received any royalties from CUB. “McVeigh’s Hotel was built in the 1850s after the discovery of gold near Warburton and included a wide verandah where this photograph may have been taken; the oil lantern hanging behind Knott’s head indicates that the photograph predates the introduction of electricity.”

For years The Warburton Hotel, formerly named the Sam Knott Hotel, paid tribute to the Warburton legend with a wood carving sculpture of the historical image outside the pub.

The hotel’s current co-owner Andrew Borer shared what he knew about Sam Knott from the local pub goers of Warburton.

“The story goes that he spent his last days on Earth at a pub, now submerged in the dam… There’s many takes on this one and it’s a bit of a furphy,” he said.

Mr Borer has been the owner of The Warburton Hotel for about three years now and said it’s the oldest surviving licensed pub in the Upper Yarra dating back to 1863.

When previous owners parted with the hotel, they wished to keep the rights to the Sam Knott Hotel name, leading to the pub reverting back to its original name of The Warburton Hotel.

“It was The Warburton Hotel right through history from 1863.

The name was changed in the late 90s and ran as the Sam Knott Hotel for about 18 years as a marketing gimmick.”

Mr Borer said as the venue changed hands (prior to his ownership) all memorabilia and signage relating to Sam Knott had been stolen. Keen thieves even used a chainsaw to chop down Knott’s wood carving sculpture and load it onto the back of a truck.

“The same locals who argue it should still be called the Sam Knott are the same ones that came in and stole everything.

“I was informed by police that on five occasions the pub was broken into and they were called here for theft when it was shut down.”

Mr Borer said he previously opened a letter addressed to the Touristnews

Image courtesy of National Archives Australia, A1861/30.

hotel’s owner only for it to be for previous owners. The letter contained the renewal for the license of the naming rights to the Sam Knott Hotel.

“The previous owner at the time stated that they (those who owned the pub earlier) wouldn’t release the name.”

Mr Borer believes CUB (who did not respond to Star Mail’s request for comment) try to distance the poster’s connection to the Warburton area.

“They like the idea of it not being linked to one establishment but as a brand name and a marketing tool.

“There’s some locals here that get pretty passionate about it.

There’s a family out in Reefton that say it all happened out there… To be a good publican you have to be neutral.”

Star Mail contacted Upper Yarra Cemetery, who said they believe Sam Knott is buried within their grounds, but don’t have much further information.

The story was recently covered by a Melbourne daily newspaper, leading to Mr Borer to receive contact from those who had their own takes on what they believed to be true.

“One fella sent me in the article, he lives on the other side of Melbourne, that’s how much attention people actually pay to this one.”

SPRING 2021 5

TARRAWARRA

Djirri Djirri Wurundjeri Women’s Dance Group, The Djirri Djirri Dancers at Toolangi Forest, 2018.

EXPLORING TRUE SPIRIT

BY JED LANYON

TARRAWARRA Museum of Art is staging a major exhibition as part of the Yalingwa Visual Arts Initiative, focused on the Home Country of First Nations artists from south-east Australia.

WILAM BIIK, is curated by Wurundjeri and Dja Dja Wurrung woman Stacie Piper as part of her two-year Yalingwa position as the First Nations curator at TarraWarra Museum of Art. Director of the TarraWarra Museum of Art, Victoria Lynn, said the exhibition WILAM BIIK, which means “Home Country” in the Woiwurrung language of the Wurundjeri people, will invite visitors to appreciate how First Nations people see, listen and connect to Country.

“This is an exhibition of an innate and unsevered connection between First Peoples and Home Country, bridging thousands of generations.

“You are invited to listen deeply – to learn and understand how First Peoples connect with Home Country, Wilam Biik,” Ms Lynn said.

First Nations curator, Ms Piper, said the WILAM BIIK exhibition is about exploring the true spirit of ourselves, which is found within the spirit of Country.

“Artists have been selected to represent particular songlines, waterlines, bushlines, representing a number of the 38-plus different clans within South East Australia.“ “Our Wilam Biik is the soil, the land, the water, the air, the sky, and the animals residing within. The only home we know, which we honour for its sacred exchange. A home where custodial rights and responsibilities never left. May this place you call home become a deeper part of you.

WILAM BIIK features new works by nine contemporary Aboriginal artists of south-east Australia and a group installation by the Djirri Djirri Wurundjeri Women’s Dance Group, together with loans from the National Gallery of Victoria, Koorie Heritage Trust, State Library of Victoria, Art Gallery of Ballarat, and Queensland Art Gallery.

The exhibition features new work from contemporary artists Paola Balla (Wemba Wemba, Gundjitmara), Deanne Gilson (Wadawurrung), Kent Morris (Barkindji), Glenda Nicholls (Waddi Waddi, Ngarrindjeri and Yorta Yorta), Steven Rhall 6 SPRING 2021

(Taungurung), Nannette Shaw (Tyereelore, Trawoolway, Bunurong), Kim Wandin (Wurundjeri), Arika Waulu (Gunditjmara, Djapwurrung, Gunnai), Rhiannon Williams (Wakaman, Waradjuri), and the Djirri Djirri Wurundjeri Women’s Dance Group (Wurundjeri, Dja Dja Wurrung, Ngurai Illum Wurrung) together with works by William Barak (Wurundjeri), Timothy Korkanoon (Wurundjeri), Granny Jemima Burns Wandin Dunolly (Wurundjeri), Joyce Moate (Taungurung), and a selection of ancestral personal tools and adornments from the South East Australian region.

“Experiencing Country through a First Nations lens provides a perspective which can inspire, give insight and knowledge, and affirm and re-establish a fundamental connection with nature. This is critical to the wellbeing of people, nature and the planet,” Ms Piper said.

“The exhibition will also feature ancestral tools from the region.

The Barak works and ancestral tools from Coranderrk represent a ‘return to Country’ by coming home to the Tarrawarra area.

“With the ancestral tools and adornments, new works and a Djirri Djirri installation we are presenting the past, present and future of what home Country means to First Nation people in south east Australia.

“My hope is that each person walks away inspired, in awe of the beauty of Country, and empowered with a personal sense of connection and responsibility,” Ms Piper said.

The Yalingwa Visual Arts Initiative 2017–2022 is a significant partnership between Creative Victoria, the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art (ACCA) and TarraWarra Museum of Art that aims to support the development of outstanding contemporary Indigenous art and curatorial practice, with a primary focus on South-East Australian First Nations artists.

WILAM BIIK is the second of three major exhibitions as part of the Yalingwa Initiative. The exhibitions alternate between ACCA and TarraWarra Museum of Art. The first, A Lightness of Spirit is the Measure of Happiness, curated by Hannah Presley, was held at ACCA in 2018, and a final exhibition will be at ACCA in 2023.

WILAM BIIK will be exhibiting from 31 July – 7 November 2021 at the TarraWarra Museum of Art. For more information, visit: www.twma.com.au Touristnews

NEWS

BEST WINERY IN AUSTRALIA

BY JED LANYON YARRA Yering has been awarded Australia’s Best Winery according to The Real Review and wine critic Huon Hooke.

The Gruyere winery topped the list of 52 of Australia’s best wineries, while several Yarra Valley wineries were chosen amongst over 1000 entries.

Yarra Yering winemaker and general manager Sarah Crowe said the recognition came as a “very pleasant surprise.”

“I was actually tasting wine at the time; I was a little bit distracted and almost didn’t take the call, so I was pretty happy when I did and Couldn’t wait to tell everybody here at work,” Ms Crowe said.

Yarra Yering’s 2018 Carrodus shiraz scored the maximum 99 points, closely followed by their 2018 Dry Red No. 11 and several other wines Mr Huon described as “impressive”.

Ms Crowe said the announcement came with “lots of smiles” at Yarra Yering, who like many Victorian wineries, have been suffering from having their cellar doors closed during lockdown. She said the announcement saw a nice boost in online sales, but the win came as a “morale booster” for the winery in a difficult time.

“You can tell when people are happy, they have a spring in their step and they walk lightly. It was nice to see that, particularly when being in lockdown, so it’s nice to have some good news to lift everyone’s spirits,” she said.

“For me, I guess it’s nice to see that across all the wineries who submitted wines, that we’ve ranked the best at number one.

It makes all the hard work and that internal turmoil you have about whether or not blends are right or how they are looking.

Sarah Crowe, winemaker and general manager of Yarra Yering.

“For Yarra Yering, it’s nice to have a third party endorsement where all we do is send our wines in to be reviewed, so there’s no bias involved at all. It gives people faith in our wines and the faith that they can purchase them and are going to be happy.”

Eight Yarra Valley wineries featured on the list of 52 with Tarrawarra Estate earning 19th place, followed closely by De Bortoli at 21 and Yering Station at 22. Oakridge listed at number 28, while Yeringberg, Giant Steps and Levantine Hill featured at 33, 41 and 45 respectively.

Ms Crowe said she was happy to see the Yarra Valley well represented among the list of Australia’s best wineries.

“For me, that’s as good as us being number one. To see my friends and colleagues across the region being recognised for their beautiful wines and attention to detail and commitment to making really delicious drinks.”

LIVE MUSIC BACK WITH A BANG

BY JED LANYON LIVE music is set to spring into action in October as the Yarra Valley plays host to several exciting events across the region.

It comes after 18 months of uncertainty and cancellations that have plagued the arts and entertainment industry. But with Australia’s slow vaccine rollout and New South Wales entering a strict lockdown to curb the latest outbreak over the next month or so, plans could very easily unravel.

A big month of music kicks off in October starting with the Marysville Music Weekend from 15-17 October. Marysville will invite roots duo Pierce Brothers to town, along with Australia’s leading jazz man James Morrison with his Motown Experience, Alt-country trailblazer Freya Josephine Hollick and many more.

Event director Bill Bate said he’s excited to launch the Marysville Music Weekend, which builds on the success of the Marysville Jazz and Blues Weekend. “This weekend is a showcase event in our region, bringing locals and visitors from far and wide.

We’re pumped about the new direction of the new brand of the Marysville Music Weekend,” he said.

To aid in maintaining social distancing, the event will be presented as four concert sessions in the Marysville Community Centre Stadium. Just down the Maroondah Highway in Healesville, the Grapevine Gathering will take place the very same weekend on 16 October. The already sold out event will see Australian music giants Peking Duk, The Veronicas, Vera Blue and The Jungle Giants perform live at Rochford Wines.

The Healesville winery will follow that event by hosting Kate Miller-Heidke for her Child In Reverse tour on 23 October as part of the Cellar Door Series.

Developed by the team behind Australia’s iconic outdoor Touristnews

A day on the green at Rochford Wines.

Picture: Romy Stephens

summer concert series a day on the green, the Cellar Door Series offers an up-close, intimate, boutique experience adjacent to the cellar doors of some of the most picturesque wineries across the country. Across the other side of the Valley, the River Folk Festival will return to Warburton across 22-24 October.

Last year’s event was set to take place in March, but was forced to cancel at the last minute as the Coronavirus pandemic first hit our shores. News of the cancellation came so abruptly that some of the artists had already arrived in Warburton and performed an intimate session before we were plunged into lockdown.

The action continues in November as the Healesville Music Festival returns to Healesville Racecourse on 12-14 November, where about 2000 people will enjoy live music and workshops.

The following weekend will see Wandin Park Estate host Valley Sounds, headlined by James Reyne, Hunters and Collectors frontman Mark Seymour and Ash Grunwald. Billed as the Yarra Valley’s first acoustic festival, it will take place on 21 November.

SPRING 2021 7

ATTRACTIONS

La La Falls.

WONDERFUL WATERFALLS SPRING is a great time to explore Yarra Ranges hidden waterfalls. Walk through lush green rainforest and discover rivers and esturaries that tumble over mossy rocks into shallow base pools or in the case of Steavenson Falls into the beautiful Steavenson River.

Olinda Falls A short walk through the ferny surrounds of the Dandenong Ranges National Park lies Olinda Falls, the perfect place to have a quiet picnic and enjoy a short walk.

The falls are situated just 350 metres from the carpark, which can be accessed via Falls Road, straight off Mt Dandenong Tourist Rd, or for those wanting a bit of an extra walk, 500 metres will get you to viewing platform at the base of the waterfall.

The walk itself takes around 15 minutes and is cool and shaded the entire way by the tall trees. There are picnic tables, toilets and running water at the park, making it the perfect place for an afternoon out in nature.

Sherbrooke Falls Located at the end of one of the most popular bush walks in the Dandenongs, Sherbrooke Falls Walking Track is perfect for adventure seekers.

The walk takes around 45 minutes return and covers about 2.4km of ground in the National Park.

With tall mountain ash trees and an impressive wildlife population, the Sherbrooke Falls Walk provides an impressive journey before reaching the destination.

The falls are most inspiring after rain, when the Sherbrooke Creek overflows over the rocks and down the waterfall.

Best to begin the walk at Sherbrooke Picnic Ground or O’Donohue Picnic Ground, both found just of Sherbrooke Lodge Road.

La La Falls, Warburton La La means ‘Welcome Welcome’ in the local indigenous language and the falls have been delighting visitors since the 1880s.

La La Falls trail is suitable for people of all fitness levels.

The 3.2 km return walk from a small, sign posted carpark at 25 Irruka Road, Warburton meanders along Four Mile Creek.

Walkers will cross several stone bridges to the soundtrack of bubbling water and lyrebirds chirping.

8 SPRING 2021

La La Falls near Warburton.

At the top, walkers are rewarded with a beautiful waterfall and seating to rest up before making the return to the carpark.

Steavenson Falls, Marysville Steavenson Falls are among the highest in Victoria dropping 84 metres into the Steavenson River Valley. The gravelled path and falls are floodlit between dusk and midnight.

Walk 350 metres to the viewing platform below the falls and visit the turbine generator along the way. A viewing platform spans the river providing a vantage point from the far side.

Touristnews

NEWS

Donna rehabilitates plants discarded into landfill.

Picture: Stewart Chambers

‘OP SHOP OF PLANTS’

BY TAYLAH EASTWELL WHEN Donna Grundy first approached wholesale nurseries asking if she could have their waste, she felt as if she “may as well have been asking people to fly to the moon with [her] tomorrow, because it was such a strange concept”.

Fast-forward a few years, Ms Grundy’s passion for reducing waste in the horticultural industry has come to fruition, with her Silvan nursery successfully rehoming plants that would otherwise end up in landfill.

Her nursery, Recycled Roots and Leaves, takes “discarded” plants from wholesale nurseries across the Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley and gives them a second chance at life.

“Some people say it’s the op shop of plants,” Ms Grundy laughed.

Ms Grundy said the whole concept of rehoming plants came to her after working in the horticultural industry for over 25 years.

“I was at a crossroads with my work and thought, what am I going to do from here? I could see all these viable plants going into landfill or dumped out the back because they weren’t perfect, whatever perfect means,” she said.

Ms Grundy put a message on Facebook with her idea of a recycling-oriented nursery and received a “phenomenal response” from locals.

“So I came up with this idea of approaching wholesale nurseries and asking if I could help deal with their waste,” she said.

Ms Grundy said waste in the horticultural industry is “absolutely huge”, with plants that are “slightly-crooked” or not visually “perfect” often finding themselves tossed into the rubbish pile.

“They either get tossed out of site or into a skip bin with or without the plastic. The issue is that plants are full of fertilizers.

The buildup of fertilizer gets into the soil which gets into groundwater. Most wholesale nurseries operate off ground water, or dam water. That water is contaminated with fertilizer so, in a sense, the extra fertilizer in the water is propping new plants up even more. In my experience, plants are grown way too quickly with far too much water in environments very different to the garden,” she said.

“The problem is, when plants are taken home to a garden, they Touristnews

don’t get the same attention they got in the wholesale nursery,” she said.

Her secret – “toughening up the plants”.

“Because they were rejected from the start, they toughen up here very quickly which makes it a tougher plant and not reliant on fertilizer or water, so when it gets into someone’s garden it’s a similar environment and I’ve given them the advice and the plants end up flourishing and surviving,” she said.

And the process seems to be working, with a wooden sign out the front of the nursery stating Ms Grundy has saved 21,000 tubes from one nursery in just 12 months.

“That is a drop in the ocean. That’s one nursery up here in the Hills, and they are everywhere up here,” she said.

But Ms Grundy isn’t just giving plants a new life, she’s also helping to improve the lives of locals.

She runs a range of disability programs, a community garden and supports women by providing a “safe, inclusive happy and positive environment”.

Ms Grundy said a girl, who has a disability, has been able to drop a few days at her full time job after Ms Grundy encouraged her to sell her “little suckers” at the Silvan nursery.

“She has become a business woman, making her own decisions and empowering herself, which is really important,” she said.

Several volunteers also attend the site weekly to help with potting, mulching, and most importantly – to feel included.

“I’ve had women with specific issues going on who don’t feel safe and have all sorts of demons they might be dealing with, and they come here and it provides them a safe space where they feel inclusive,” she said.

From the moment you step foot on Ms Grundy’s site, the eyes struggle to find something “new”, from the recycled pots, to the once-loved tables, rusted signs and labels - everything has had a prior life.

“That is very deliberate. It’s about sustainability. Even down to the wheel on my wheelbarrow, I needed a new one, and thought, where can I get one that’s not new,” she said.

“My underlying message is all about sustainability and helping to reduce waste and environmental issues,“ she said.

SPRING 2021 9

DANDENONG RANGES

RSL WELCOMES ALL COMERS THE Upwey Belgrave RSL was created as a way of supporting returned servicemen and their families, and while that is still the key function, it has now become a venue for the community to enjoy. They welcome new members who might not have served, but still wish to be part of the community club, which is also a non-gaming venue.

The RSL features an historical museum which was established in 2007 and is curated by volunteers. It is the only RSL to have a museum accredited by Museums Australia, and is well worth a look. Entry is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.

“The museum showcases military memorabilia from members of the community who have served from the Boer War up to modern times,” RSL president Anthony Stewart said.

The Upwey Belgrave RSL took over the running of the restaurant in 2017 and renamed it Poppies.

“The renaming was a tribute to the fallen,” Mr Stewart said.

Chef David Johnson, who has previously worked there, has come back and brings with him his many years of experience in the industry. He is still doing his well-loved, home-made fettucine and gnocchi, a treat for the community indeed!

Whilst Covid has made trading challenging, the staff have once again risen to the challenge and have taken the “take away” business in their stride. They have also kept the doors open for the community through the recent disaster of the wind storms where people came from all around to seek a delicious hot meal, solace next to the gas log fire, as well as charging their electrical devices.

Follow the Upwey Belgrave RSL Facebook page for updates on activities and promotions. To find out more, go to upweybelgraversl.org.au or phone 9754 3665.

Kerry (manager) with chef Dave in the under cover outdoor dining area.

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.

Our services include: • New Menu • Licensed Café • Functions - from 15 to 120 guests • Devonshire Tea

• 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

12480398-JW16-21

B Browse in the G Shop, which Gift has one of the largest ranges of quality Australiana Gifts and Souvenirs east of Melbourne.

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 Picnic Ground • 70 Monbulk Road, Kallista • Phone 9755 2888 Melways Ref 75K4 www.grantsonsherbrooke.com.au 10 SPRING 2021

Touristnews

DANDENONG RANGES

BE BOWLED OVER AT MONBULK THE Monbulk Bowling Club continues to stand strong in the face of adversity, providing food, fun and friendship for locals even through hard times.

A combination of Covid restrictions and extreme weather conditions have proven difficult for businesses in the region.

Outside of lockdowns, the team at the Monbulk Bowling Club will be open to the public, serving delicious, good value meals and thirst-quenching drinks, as well as providing a warm and welcoming family-friendly atmosphere.

Locals are encouraged to gather loved ones once lockdown lifts and enjoy a casual game of barefoot bowls or a meal together.

Hosting bowls competitions for over 55 years, the club caters for beginners to experienced bowlers.

Friendly staff at the club will make guests feel welcome and appreciated. General manager Brendan Cox explains the downstairs lounge and bar area has recently been refurbished to provide an even more comfortable vibe for patrons.

“It is a place where you really get that small town, easy-going feeling with enough space to cater for all sorts of catch ups from a few friends to large functions,“ said Brendan.

As spring approaches, the club’s bistro menu is also undergoing a change, providing lighter menu items to choose from, while keeping the classics available.

The bistro offers great food for the whole family. On Wednesdays enjoy the $15 parma special. Thursday is the bowlers special - a burger, beer and bowls for $25.

Kids eat free with a paid adult meal all week (kid’s meals only 12 and under). Upgrade the kid’s meal to include a kid’s drink, ice-cream and activity pack for $4. There is also a seniors’ menu for those 60 and over and seniors’ specials.

Check out the bistro’s new spring menu for delicious seasonal dishes.

General manager Brendan with customer Liesl.

Find the Monbulk Bowling Club at 11 Moores Road, Monbulk.

The bistro is open Wednesday to Sunday from 5.30pm. For bookings, phone 9756 6183.

11 MOORES RD, MONBULK

Monbulk Bistro Specials by Day Wednesday

Thursday

Sunday

Wed to Sun

Parma Night

Bowlers Special Burger, Beer & Bowls

Kids Eat Free

Seniors’ Specials

$15*

$25*

$12.90*

$15*

NEW! ALL WEEK KID’S MEAL DEAL UPGRADE Upgrade any kid’s meal for $4 to include a kid’s drink, ice-cream and an activity pack.

1 FREE KID’S MEAL per paid adult meal of equal or greater value. Dine-in only.

12 and under. Must order from Kid’s Meals. Not valid with other offers or promotions. * Conditions apply for Specials'

Make a booking 9756 6183 Dine a la carte Wed to Sun from 5.30pm | Our Menu includes gluten-free & vegetarian dishes to suit special needs.

12498695-NG40-21

Touristnews

SPRING 2021 11

DANDENONG RANGES

A PLACE TO BE ENCHANTED SPRING is in the air at Enchanted Pines, and with the warmer weather comes a changeover in fashion lines. The winter knits, thick scarves and beanies are swapped out for a more free flowing range of light weight scarves, bohemian maxi and mid length dresses, as well as shorter dresses and a beautiful lace collection made up of light weight cardis and tops that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

“I take great pride in selecting stock for the store for the appropriate season”, owner Cat said.

“And even though it’s been tough to navigate with restrictions and lockdowns, I’m looking forward to once again having the shop fully open and accessible to customers to try on the beautiful range of clothes the store has to offer.”

As well as clothes, the store offers a variety of gift ideas, from locally made items, to Japanese ceramics as well as home decor, crystals, magical items to harness your inner witch, and fashion and sterling silver jewellery set with semi-precious stones. Melbourne-made soaps and lotions complement the store’s essential oils, room sprays and fragrant soy candles.

“Ive been open two years now and the locals love the store and have shown tremendous support,” Cat said, “and hopefully with the weather now beginning to warm up and easing of restrictions, we will begin to see more tourists in town.”

Enchanted Pines also offers takeaway tea and coffee, as well as iced coffee, chai, and flavoured syrups. Drinks are served in certified compostable cups but customers are welcome to bring their own travel mug and wander through the store while enjoying a hot or cold beverage (unless we are in lockdown then its grab and go with drinks).

The store also has a pay it forward system in place for hot drinks and anyone going through a tough time or even just having a

Enchanted Pines has a wonderful array of stock.

rough day is encouraged to come down and ask for a drink off the board.

Enchanted Pines is open five days a week Tuesday -Friday 10.30am-4pm and Sat 9am-1.30pm at 5 Main Street, Upwey, (03) 8719 3903.

For updates on opening hours please head to facebook @ enchantedPINESUpwey

Enchanted PINES offers a beautiful selection of Bohemium styled dresses, a lace collection of cardigans and tops.

Running Rabbits Military Museum Displays weaponry, documents and equipment from The Boer War through WWI & WWII to current day.

Open Thursday & Sunday 10 – 2pm or by Appointment * Entry Gold Coin donation * TOURS AVAILABLE [Subject to restrictions]

Poppies At Upwey Belgrave RSL

Please call the RSL for opening times & to book your table Enchanted PINES is now stocked and ready for Spring, offering a beautiful selection of home decor, ceramics, clothing and gift wares. We also have Takeaway tea and coffee as well as iced coffee, all available in biodegradable cups. s.

5 main street Upwey | 8719 3903 www.enchantedpines.com.au

Come visit us and be enchanted!

Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10.30am-4.00pm | Saturday 9.00am-1.30pm 00am 1 30pm Sunday and Monday Closed | For Updates on opening hrs please head to facebook @enchantedPINESUpwey

Bar Open 7 Days a Week 1 Mast Gully Rd, Upwey Check your Facebook for more 12487716-AV40-21

Enchanted PINES

Gif vouchts are alseors availab le

Weekend Specials We cater for all private functions

[Subject to restrictions]

Upwey Belgrave RSL Ph: 9754 3665 “Your RSL”

12498700-SN40-21

12 SPRING 2021

Touristnews

DANDENONG RANGES

A JEWEL IN MONBULK’S CROWN MONBULK is situated in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges one hour’s drive from Melbourne CBD and only 10 minutes from Belgrave or Olinda.

A pleasant surprise for those who come across it, Monbulk Jewellers is a unique gem of a shop, positioned in the centre of this quiet little town.

The business was started 27 years ago by fine artist, gem specialist and jewellery designer Kenneth S Hunt and his wife Helen. For more than two decades, Monbulk Jewellers has gone from strength to strength and is now a mecca for those who love beautiful jewellery, gemstones and quality fine art.

The business also specialises in Australian gems and jewellery.

This family-run business caters for locals and tourists alike with friendly helpful staff, a great range of products and offers all related jewellery services.

The shop has an experienced resident master jeweller who works with both gold and silver.

“Monbulk Jewellers is well worth a visit and you never know you just might find a special treasure to take home with you,” Mr Hunt said.

Monbulk Jewellers is located at 102 Main Road in Monbulk and is open 9am - 5pm Monday - Friday. Monbulk Jewellers operate as click and collect including repairs, remakes, design and making during lockdowns.

For more information, phone 9756 7652 or visit www. monbulkjewellers.com.

Alternatively, email ken@masterstouch.com.au.

Right: The friendly team at Monbulk Jewellers.

REAL ANTIQUES WITH REAL STORIES

Tel: 0417 599 002 Touristnews

Friendly and welcoming family business Owners Ken & Helen Hunt Have been at Monbulk Jewellers since 1994, assisting and providing quality severices for the local communtiy and surrounds.

Australian Argyle Pink Diamonds

102 Main Road Monbulk

9756 7652 www.monbulkjewellers.com

12498697-SG40-21

Madame Rae Rae 4/47 Olinda Monbulk Road, Olinda www.madameraerae.com.au

12504557-HC40-21

Madame Rae Rae brings the stories and history of beautiful French Antiques to Melbourne – Explore the incredible antiques at Madame Rae Rae’s shop in Olinda.

Quality Onsite Repairs & Restoration.

New jewellery designed and made.

Diamond and gemstone specialists.

Engagement Rings

SPRING 2021 13

DANDENONG RANGES

The trail is the first complete walk from Gembrook to Lilydale.

CAMINO INSPIRES NEW TRAIL

BY TAYLAH EASTWELL A BELGRAVE man has developed a walking trail from Gembrook to Lilydale that leaves no portion of the picturesque Dandenong Ranges unseen.

Jason Williams, an avid walker and cyclist, has linked up existing trails throughout the hills to create a 72.5km trail that meanders through ferny bushland, major towns and tourism landmarks.

“In 2016, I did a section of the Camino trail in Spain, by bicycle.

I come from a tourism background and after seeing the Camino I thought, why cant we do something like this in Australia?,” Mr Williams said.

Since that initial thought, over two years of hard work and dedication has gone into creating the finished product – a seven section trail that utilises bush tracks already in place.

“It’s like someone taking a map of Melbourne and looking at joining roads and saying, ‘this is a route to follow’. They are all existing tracks, I have just linked them as a single trail with a single name,” Mr Williams said.

“I did the research through walking a lot as a family,” he said.

The idea of creating the trail in the Dandenongs was a way of increasing tourism while reducing traffic, Mr Williams said.

“I looked around maps of Australia and it became pretty obvious that the best place to do something like this was on my doorstep in the Dandenongs because we have accommodation everywhere, it’s fantastically beautiful and really appealing to people,” he said.

“I wanted to hit all the beauty spots in the Dandenongs and wanted to include Puffing Billy, William Ricketts Sanctuary, Alfred Nicholas Gardens and all those sorts of places. But part of it was also that the traffic is horrendous on a nice sunny day, so to get people walking and not adding to traffic was a big part of it,” he said.

The trail passes through a number of local attractions and takes 4-7 days to complete.

14 SPRING 2021

The Dandenong Ranges Trail passes through a number of local attractions.

It can also be broken up into a series of day walks, including Gembrook to Emerald, Emerald to Monbulk, Monbulk to Belgrave, Belgrave to Olinda, Olinda to William Ricketts, William Ricketts to Mt Evelyn or Mt Evelyn to Lilydale.

On the Dandenong Ranges Trail website, Mr Williams has listed a number of accommodation options for walkers and cyclists in a further bid to boost Hills tourism.

The entirely community-based project has been well received by the public, with many excited at the thought of being able to walk, run or cycle from Gembrook to Lilydale and back.

“It’s really touched a nerve and people really like the idea of it.

A few people are planning to head out and do the walk soon and over the school holidays,” he said.

Mr Williams is currently working on a guide book that people can use to navigate their way along the trail and has already posted some suggested itineraries to the website.

“My dream is to get it big enough that council or Parks Victoria give the trail its own signpost,” he said.

For more information, visit Dandenong Ranges Trail on Facebook or https://www.dandenongrangestrail.com.au/ Touristnews

DANDENONG RANGES

A BLAST FROM THE PAST IN OLINDA

BY ELLE CECIL THOUGH the first thing you may want to do out of lockdown is travel, far-off destinations such as France seem a world away.

However, there is someplace close to home where you can feast your eyes and get your hands on some French goodies.

Madame Rae Rae French Antiques in Olinda stocks a wide range of diverse original antique and vintage items sourced directly from France. Stock includes one-of-a-kind furniture, linens, vintage kitchen items, antique copper items, ceramics, artwork and lighting, curiosities and vintage, antique jewelry from France.

Store owner Rae Torres takes pride in the fact that her business only stocks original items and no reproductions.

“The antique and vintage items are all genuine… the shop is a little bit like a museum with many curiosities which spark great conversation,” Rae explains.

“I am happy for people to come in and browse, there’s no pressure to buy.”

Rae Torres took the dive into small business ownership after 40 passionate and fulfilling years in the education sector. With expertise in literacy and a passion for story, Rae has based her business around this passion.

“I believe I have been able to combine my two passions, namely story and antiques, to offer a new concept in antique trading,” Rae says.

“Our stories shape who we are, and every item in the shop carries its own unique story. Some of these stories we know, and some we do not, but they cause us to stop and wonder, ‘Who sat at this table? Who cooked, probably over an open fire, with this ancient copper pot? Who looked into this antique mirror?’”

In its fourth year of business, Madam Rae Rae French Antiques is a history lesson in itself. Rae has had to engage in deep research to determine the background of many items on the shelves of her store.

“In essence, the business is not solely about selling - it is about sharing stories, respecting the stories and craftsmanship that has come before us,” says Rae. “[It’s about] preserving things in our own modern stories, rather than purchasing mass-produced products churned out on a noisy production line and destined to further pollute our fragile environment.”

Outside of lockdown, Madame Rae Rae Antiques is open Thursday to Monday from 10.30am - 5pm. For more information, pop into Shop 4, 47-53 Olinda-Monbulk Road, Olinda, or visit www.madameraerae.com.au.

12401376-CG50-18

OPEN EVERYDAY* 10AM - 5PM *closed Christmas Day Touristnews

SHOP 1, 540 MT DANDENONG TOURIST RD

OLINDA, VIC

CHOCOLATE FACTORY

WWW.ONLYMINE.COM.AU SPRING 2021 15

DANDENONG RANGES

5. Grants Picnic Ground.

A TRIP ALONG THE TOURIST ROAD

BY TAYLAH EASTWELL

1. Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden, Olinda The Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden is the perfect place to begin a day out in the Hills. The garden features collections of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and a variety of native and exotic trees all complemented by a spectacular view of the Yarra Valley from above. The network of footpaths criss-cross leaving no section of the well-known gardens unseen, and with plants that bloom all year round, the garden will never disappoint.

Pack a picnic or morning tea and set up on some of the lush green lawns. The garden is open daily from 10am until 5pm except Christmas Day, days of total fire ban and severe weather events.

Entrance to the garden is free.

1. Flowers in bloom at Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden.

2. RJ Hamer Arboretum, Olinda Just up the road lies RJ Hamer Arboretum, a significant piece of Indigenous cultural land in the traditional country of the Wurundjeri folk.

The arboretum is the perfect place for kids to run around and parents to relax while breathing in the fresh mountain air.

Originally a pine plantation, the 101-hectare arboretum is now home to over 150 native and exotic trees and serves as a local corridor for native wildlife, including lyrebirds, echidnas and owls. Electric barbecues, picnic tables and toilet facilities are available. Enter via Chalet Road.

3. SkyHigh, Mt Dandenong Situated on the uppermost point of the Dandenong Ranges, SkyHigh is one of Victoria’s premier tourist attractions with breathtaking views of Melbourne’s city skyline. The views can be experienced by day from the viewing platforms or by night for a spectacular sparkling view of city lights.

Located at 26 Observatory Road, Mt Dandenong, the SkyHigh lookout is the perfect place to take the family while visiting the 16 SPRING 2021

2. Woolrich Lookout at RJ Hamer Arboretum.

Hills. The bistro is available for coffee and kiosk items from 9.15am daily, with plenty of outdoor seating and a bistro lunch menu from 11am.

There is also a pop up bar on the front lawn each Friday from 4pm, Saturday and Sunday from 12 between October and April each year.

Touristnews

DANDENONG RANGES 4. King Henry’s Restaurant, Sassafras King Henry’s is an icon of the Dandenongs. The building dates back to 1902 and is set on three stunning acres. With an open fire indoors and outdoor seating overlooking beautiful gardens and fountains, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a wine or craft beer in the heart of the Hills. The building was an old guest house formally called King Henry VIII and has since been fully renovated.

Open Thursday and Friday’s for lunch and dinner and weekends for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday.

320 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road, Sassafras.

5. Grants Picnic Ground (Sherbrooke Forest), Kallista Grants Picnic Ground sits on the edge of Sherbrooke Forest, and as the name suggests, it’s another great spot for a picnic or an afternoon relax. The grounds are surrounded by Mountain Ash trees and tree fern gullies that are home to a range of colourful rosellas, galah’s, cockatoos and the odd lyrebird. Bird feeding was banned from 12 February 2020, so please don’t feed the birds.

There are a number of tracks from the grounds that meander through the forest. The Margaret Lester Track and Coles Ridge Track are suitable for parents with prams but do have steps in some parts.

You’ll find the spot at 70 Monbulk Road, Kallista.

6. Sherbrooke Falls Also hidden in Sherbrooke Forest is Sherbrooke Falls. Among the spectacular mountain ash trees and lush ferns lies a number of winding tracks that lead to the well-known falls.

The hidden gem can be found by taking Sherbrooke Track or O’Donohue Track and following the signs. The falls themselves are small and obscured by tree ferns, with the real star of the journey being the rainforest experience as a whole. The walk is around 45 mins each way.

3. SkyHigh Mt Dandenong.

4. King Henry’s Restaurant, Sassafras.

6. The tall mountain ash trees surround the walk to Sherbrooke Falls.

Touristnews

SPRING 2021 17

ACCOMMODATION

2 Bed Deluxe Cabins.

Ensuite Sites.

EXPLORE OUT FROM LILYDALE LILYDALE Pine Hill has become a popular place to stay when visiting the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges.

The caravan park officially opened its new tourist sites in February 2020 and now has more than 100 sites catering for camping, caravans, RVs and big rigs.

Guests can choose from drive-through, ensuite, powered and unpowered sites and the park also offers one and two bedroom standard and deluxe cabins that cater for two to six guests.

Lilydale Pine Hill have installed a new playground for kids to enjoy and also they have created a Customer Information Centre with dedicated staff on hand to help you plan your stay in the Yarra Valley. Lilydale Pine Hill also partner with local businesses where you can pre-purchase tickets to attractions including Puffing Billy, Healesville Sanctuary, Global Ballooning, Rayner’s Orchard and many more.

The park is a member of Kui Parks, a national network of privately-owned parks. Kui Park members enjoy a discounted stay with Lilydale Pine Hill and many other member parks, plus

assured quality facilities, friendly staff and value for money.

Lilydale Pine Hill welcomes groups and special requests for clubs and functions. Groups can take advantage of Lilydale Pine Hill’s book and pay for six nights, get the seventh night free offer.

When guests arrive at the caravan park, they can pick up a discount voucher book which partners with local business.

Check in and head out to an event or function, or sit back and enjoy the peace and quiet after a long day’s drive. Wander back in time to historic locations.

Venture out to wine country. Grab farm-fresh produce. Explore famous gardens. Snap up a bargain at any of the numerous markets. At the end of the day, guests can light up the fire pit and share their stories with fellow travellers or jump onto the outdoor gym equipment to recharge their batteries.

Lilydale Pine Hill’s mission is to ensure visitors enjoy a great experience. For more information about the caravan park or region’s attractions, visit www.lilydalepinehill.com.au

Lilydale Pine Hill Caravan Park

Lilydale Pine Hill Caravan Park is at the Gateway to Victoria’s famous Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges. Whether you need a cabin or a site for your RV’s, caravan, large rig, camper van or tent, we have a site to suit.

Book & Pay for 6 nights, get the 7th night FREE 105 Warburton Highway, Lilydale Vic 3140 Phone: (03) 9735 4577 Email: lilydalepinehill@bigpond.com • Website: www.lilydalepinehill.com.au 12511006-SG40-21

18 SPRING 2021

Touristnews

• Located at the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges • Close to sites such as The 1000 Steps and Puffing Billy • Three on-site conference and events rooms available • Restaurants and Bars onsite • 35 Renovated Rooms • Free Wifi • Free Parking • Complimentary continental breakfast boxes

1130 Burwood Highway Ferntree Gully, VIC, 3156 P. 9758 6544

Featuring 40 newly hotel rooms all included free Wi-Fi, parking, air conditioning, bar fridge, flat screen TV with tea and coffee facilities and with King Koil Beds, There are three room types available and catering for corporate and leisure needs.

• 40 Renovated Rooms • Free Breakfast • Free Parking • Free Wifi • Restaurant on site • Conference and meeting facilities

138 York Road, Mount Evelyn, VIC 3796 P. 9736 4000

12411997-SN13-19

Touristnews

SPRING 2021 19

DIRECTORY

1. YORK ON LILYDALE RESORT Cnr York & Swansea Rd, Mt Evelyn Tel: 9736 4000

2. UPWEY/BELGRAVE RSL 1 Mast Gully Rd, Upwey Tel: 9754 3665

6

3 4 3. HEALESVILLE GRAND HOTEL 270 Maroondah Highway, Healesville Tel: 5962 4003 www.healesvillegrandhotel.com.au Drive Thru Bottle Mart Open 7 Days

4. BEECHWORTH BAKERY 316 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville Tel: 1300 233 784 6am - 6pm Mon - Sun

WARRANDYTE ROAD

1

12

5. MONBULK BOWLING CLUB

5

11 Moores Road, Monbulk Tel: 9756 6183

2 11

9

6. ALOWYN GARDENS 1210 Melba Hwy, Yarra Glen Tel: 9730 2400 20 SPRING 2021

Touristnews

DIRECTORY

8 7. COG BIKES 42 Station Rd, Warburton Tel: 5966 2213

8. MARYSVILLE INFORMATION & REGIONAL ARTSPACE 11 Murchison St, Marysville Tel: 5963 4567

10

4 9. GRANTS ON SHERBROOKE 70 Monbulk Rd, Kallista Tel: 9755 2888

7 10. BADGER CREEK BLUE BERRY WINERY 11 Garnook Gve, Healsville

11. ENCHANTED PINES 5 Main St, Upwey Tel: 8719 3903

S

MAP PROVIDED COURTESY OF

REGIONAL TOURISM WEBSITES • VISITDANDENONGRANGES.COM.AU • VISITYARRAVALLEY.COM.AU • VISITWARBURTON.COM.AU

ILLUSTRATIVETRAIL MAPS • VISITYARRAVALLEY.COM.AU/PLACES-TO-GO/TOP-TRAILS • VISITDANDENONGRANGES.COM.AU/PLACES-TO-GO/TOP-TRAILS

Touristnews

CHOCOLATE FACTORY

12. ONLY MINE CHOCOLATES Shop 1/540 Mt Dandenong Rd, Olinda Tel: 9751 1862 SPRING 2021 21

YARRA VALLEY

MATILDA BAY BREWERY’S BACK

BY ELLE CECIL AFTER a several-decades-long hiatus, the reinvented Matilda Bay Brewery has opened in Healesville.

Originally founded by Phil Sexton and friends in 1983 in Fremantle, Western Australia, Matilda Bay Brewery was taken over by Carlton United Breweries in 1990.

Phil is now back with his son and head brewer Harry in a sustainably powered brewery, producing small batch craft beer.

Outside of lockdown, the brewery is open seven days a week.

The brewpub is complete with a welcoming bar and lots of weeknight activities, selling their original craft beer and supporting local artists, producers and brewers. Weekends allow for brewery tours through the brand new stainless tanks and facilities, with the opportunity to sample the freshest beer possible.

Head of Marketing at Matilda Bay Brewery, James Aris, says the business takes pride in sticking true to its roots and core values.

“What drives us above all else is brewing great beer that stands the test of time. Back in the eighties, that meant brewing different beers that Australians hadn’t been able to try due to big breweries controlling the market and supplying just a few lagers,” James explains.

“Fast forward to today and you’ll find a kaleidoscope of beers, from breweries big and small, in every bottle shop - as brewers race to pursue fads and novelties, Matilda Bay is back to create beer with naturally amazing flavour. We’ll be remastering our greatest hits; beers that were brewed to stand the test of time, and creating future classics using time-honoured techniques and just four natural ingredients.”

Matilda Bay takes sustainability very seriously, with the

brewery powered by 248 solar panels on the roof and relying on their sustainable energy sources since January 2021. The spent grain from the brewery is fed to local cattle and Matilda Bay proudly supports innovative local renewable energy causes such as Healesville CoRE. The brewery is planning to bring Oktoberfest to the Yarra Valley in November, restrictions permitting. Initially delayed due to Covid, Oktoberfest celebrates the best of the traditional festival in Munich, Germany. A weekend of Bavarian-style celebrations will run from Friday November 12 to Sunday 14 November. Attendees will be able to sample the full Matilda Bay range as well as small batch, limited brew and Munich-style Oktoberbrau. A variety of entertainment will be on display all weekend, including local musicians and a traditional Oompa Loompa band.

Matilda Bay Brewery products are sold at the brewery itself and at all good pubs and bottle shops around Victoria. For more information, phone (03) 5957 3200 or visit www.matildabay.com.

12-14 NOV

Stop by at Matilda Bay Brewery in Healesville, the new home for Australia’s Original Craft Brewer.

Bringing Europe to the Yarra Valley!

Back in 1983 Matilda Bay launched with a mission to prove there was life beyond lager; to wake up drinkers to what great beer, brewed properly, could be. It would be fair to say it birthed the craft movement, brewing now classic beers like Redback and dark lager Dogbolter.

After parting ways with Matilda Bay in the 90s, original founder Phil Sexton is back in charge, on a mission to rebuild Matilda Bay, with a new brewery and pub in Healesville on the site where Giant Steps Winery used to occupy.

Shop online @ matildabay.com/shop For details on brewery tours visit website

Head Brewer Harry Sexton, Phil’s son, and the brewing team are busy reinventing their greatest hits, and launching a couple of new ones too, taking advantage of the mountain water and pristine environment.

Complete with an enormous welcoming bar and lots of weeknight activities, supporting local artists, producers and brewers. On weekends you’ll be able to experience brewery tours through the brand-new stainless tanks, and sample the freshest beer possible.

matildabay.com 03 5957 3200 336 Maroondah Hwy Healesville VIC 3777 @matildabaybrewery

Opening Hours Mon to Fri 11.30am – late Sat & Sun 8.30am – late

A weekend of Bavarian-style celebration from Friday 12th to Sunday 14th November, sampling the full Matilda Bay range and our small batch, limited brew, Munich-style Oktoberbräu.

Entertainment all weekend including a traditional Oompa Band and local musicians.

Tickets

$40

→ includes your limited

edition stein glass and a beer. → free entry for Kids under 10.

Book via qr code → matildaBay.com or phone: (03) 5957 3200 12510634-DL40-21

22 SPRING 2021

Touristnews

YARRA VALLEY

ON TRACK FOR A FUN ACTIVITY LOOKING for the all-inclusive family activities that only require one step to organise? Or maybe you’re the couples looking for a few hours to escape? Perhaps you’re the thrill seeker hoping to experience the beauty that only comes from solitude in the hills. With Cog Bikes Australia, you can discover, re discover and celebrate a range of activities right here in the Yarra Valley/ Ranges Region. Cog Bikes Australia Bike Hire activities not only tick all of these boxes, we also partner with other businesses to bring you locals supporting locals experience you’ll love!

on trails that highlight the beauty within the hills of the Yarra Valley/Ranges Region. The O’Shannassy Aqueduct Trail through Warburton to The Mount Evelyn Aqueduct, Olinda and Pipeline Track as well as Mountain biking trails for all levels of experience to name a few. There’s not much you can’t do on two wheels.

Cog Bike Australia in both Monbulk and Warburton pride ourselves on good old-fashioned customer service.

They want to get to know you and your story so they can help you achieve the perfect day out, the perfect bike repair or service, or even the perfect bike. So for the small store with the big heart, talk to them today.

More info at www.cogbikesaustralia.com.au or give us a call on 8736-8152 or 0417 536 826.

These include but not limited to:

THE CAFE CRUISE: Don’t let time frame limit how much of the Rail Trail you get to experience. Customise your start and end points to suit you.

More info here https://warburtonbikehire.com.au/rail-trailcafe-cruise .

FOR THE ADVENTURER: Being locals that love to ride means we have vast knowledge

12507747-SN40-21

BIKE TO BOW: A half day Bike Hire and Archery activity. Hire regular bikes or E-bikes and enjoy a leisurely ride along the Lilydale-Warburton Rail Trail followed by an hour of indoor archery at The Yarra Valley Archery Park before heading back on your riding journey.

More info here https://warburtonbikehire.com.au/bike-to-bow .

Open Thursday – Sunday

Christmas to end of Jan open Seven days a week

DEN OF ANTIQUITIES Dorothy & Mike Winter

Up to

40% off

Bike and E-Bike

come in store to grab a bargain Trading hours: Friday, Saturday, Sunday - any other time contact Dorothy via mobile for appointment Touristnews

12485133-SG16-21

12470877-HL49-20

25a Bell Street, Yarra Glen 3775 Dorothy Mobile: 0413 454 966

HIRE

SALES

SERVICING & REPAIR

Located right on the Lilydale - Warburton Rail Trail next door to The Cog Bike Cafe, with multiple drop off and pick-up hire points, the team at Cog Bikes is here to help you explore the stunning Yarra Valley and ensure you truly Enjoy the Ride!

Visit www.cogbikesaustralia.com.au 42 Station Rd, Warburton and 80A Main Rd, Monbulk P: 8736 8152 0417 536 826

SPRING 2021 23

12507397-DL40-21

24 SPRING 2021

Touristnews

YARRA VALLEY

A DESTINATION FOR LOVERS NESTLED in the foothills of Melbourne’s closest alpine resort Lake Mountain are the villages of Marysville, Buxton, Taggerty and Narbethong. Located only 90 minutes drive from Melbourne in the picturesque Yarra Valley, Marysville and surrounds is an ideal destination for lovers of nature and the outdoors. The choices are plentiful, each allowing new memories to be made and new adventures to be shared. A place to leave you feeling connected to the natural surrounds, the people and one another.

There is so much to do, that once here you will realise that you need to come back or spend a few more days exploring and of course you need time to just sit back, relax and take it all in.

Marysville and surrounds have water falls, walks, world class bike tracks, snow, and autumn colors that the camera just loves, or spring flowers you just want to sit amongst. Take a picnic to

MiRa Marysville offers local knowledge, an intriguing gallery, artisan wares, art supplies, creative workshops & fabulous performances. Nestled in Marysville’s stunning natural environment and open 7 days a week, there’s always something for everyone Open 10am – 4pm daily. 11 Murchison Street, Marysville.

T: 03 5963 4567 www.marysvilletourism.com

Steavenson River and just relax.

MiRA (Marysville Information and Regional Artspace) offers friendly tourist information, the Phoenix Museum (exhibition about the 2009 fires), as well as a retail space stocking locally made artisan wares and produce. They now have two beautiful exhibition spaces with exhibitions all year round.

Marysville Information and Regional Artspace is a tourist attraction on its own.

Open 10am - 4pm daily Mira means look, the perfect connection between tourism and arts.

Marysville Information and Regional Artspace look forward to welcoming you soon.

Our beautiful gallery and arts space is constantly filled with something to inspire. Whether it be an exhibition, performance or workshop there is always something going on to feed your creative appetite. Check in with MiRa on Facebook or head to our website for all thats happening.

12498711-JW40-21

Touristnews

SPRING 2021 25

YARRA VALLEY

SAMPLE TASTY BITES OF JOY BEECHWORTH Bakery Healesville would love to thank our local community for the continuous support and, of course, our ever so resilient team who truly are our biggest asset. We are one of eight family-owned Beechworth Bakeries across eight beautiful regional Victorian communities and southern NSW, employing in Healesville alone over 40 people from our local community.

Apart from our most loved Beestings and yummy pie options, we have stepped up with initiatives to continue to bring joy into our community with our new Kids’ Activity Packs. These packs have either two shortbread biscuits or cupcakes, with everything you need to decorate your heart’s content. They’re a super fun and delicious activity to keep the little people (and big ones!) entertained through whatever life is throwing at us.

And guess what? You can now order our lovely treats from home or on your way to work and pick them up without having to wait in the queue. Sounds familiar? Just like click and collect, but this serves your cravings too! You can head over to beechworthbakery.orderup.com.au and start ordering your favourites right now. We want to make it quick and easy for you, our customers, which is always our priority.

Christmas has already started for us,and our production is in full swing to spread festive happiness to all our lovely customers across Australia. And we now have a delicious low-gluten Christmas cake to our offering. The cake has been made with no gluten ingredients but may contain traces of airborne gluten.

We also have a wide variety of hampers and packs that are crafted just to bring joy to you and your loved ones. Simply pop instore or online for all your yummy Christmas treats!

It is the community spirit and strong connection with our customers and our team that continues to put a smile on our face and inspire us every day to keep doing what we love and what we’re proud of.

Beechworth Bakery Healesville is ready to delivery bites of joy.

12498708-SN40-21

26 SPRING 2021

Touristnews

YARRA VALLEY

DELICIOUS FUN AT THE FOREST THE Edible Forest is a one acre netted enclosed food forest that holds 300 different species of plants, many of them rare and unique.

Located on the 120 acre Yarra Valley Estate, the forest offers a picturesque vision with a backdrop of rolling hills. The garden is completely organic and functional producing lots of food while still looking beautiful.

Tours are led by experienced guides through the forest and guests are shown rare season plants and get to taste what’s available at the time, which could be anything from berries to bush tucker food.

Listen and learn or simply just stroll and enjoy the fresh air, this tour is for budding gardeners to those just in need of change of scenery.

New areas include a temperate rainforest and bush tucker collection. Staff are always sourcing new plants and changing the forest so a returning visitor will always experience something new!

The tour ends at the plant nursery and harvest shop were visitors are free to wonder and tour guide are available to answer questions.

The Edible Forest’s owner, Louise Ward, is immensely proud of the business and the work that the staff have done to benefit the community.

“Our greatest achievement to date has been bringing my idea of creating an edible forest into fruition - a very special place to share with our community to enjoy and learn about what nature has to offer,” Louise explained.

“Green spaces and gardens are so important for a person’s health and wellbeing, and it has helped us through the toughest

The Edible Forest sits on one acre of luscious land in Dixons Creek.

times with COVID lockdowns.”

As well as tours, the Edible Forest offers monthly Wild Fermentation classes where participants can learn about and make their own sauerkraut and pickles in an interactive and fun class.

“Being able to share our experience and knowledge drives us - we hope people go home and are inspired to grow their own food and get into their gardens, just like we are,” Louise said.

“Having the opportunity to offer our guests organic fresh produce to taste straight from the plants is really exciting. [We love hearing] their delight when browsing through our harvest shop with all of our homegrown and made preserves, and the nursery where we offer unique edible plants.”

Once lockdown restrictions end, tours will commence at 10am from Wednesday to Saturday, with an additional 12pm tour on Saturdays.

For more information, phone (03) 5965 2397 or visit www. edibleforest.co.

GROW - FEED EDUCATE - GIVEBACK Hidden within our Yarra Valley property, you’ll find the EDIBLE FOREST, a place where we grow edible plants, create experiences and breathe the fresh air.

A place where you can wander, roam and discover.

A place where you will find unique plants, listen to the hum of the bees, watch the chooks as they scratch in their run, learn about health and wellbeing and have fun!

Tours run 10 am Wednesday to Saturday with an extra 12 pm time slot on Saturdays $25 Bookings are essential and can be made on our website or email us directly Our Nursery and Harvest shop are open: Wed - Fri 11am – 3pm • Sat 1pm – 3pm Edible Forest • Yarra Valley Estate 2164 Melba Hwy Dixons Creek VIC 3775 (03) 5965 2395 • info@edibleforest.co • www.edibleforest.com

12510343-NG40-21

Touristnews

SPRING 2021 27

Grand Hotel Healesville Open 7 days - 11:30am till late Happy Hour Fri 4- 6pm Restaurant - Beer Garden- Balcony - Bottle Shop - Accommodation 270 Maroondah Highway Healesville T: 5962 4003 W: healesvillegrandhotel.com.au E: info@grandhotelhealesville.com.au Drive Thru Bottle Mart Open 7 Days a week 28 SPRING 2021

12471239-CG51-20

Touristnews

12471237-SN51-20

New Chef and New Menu The Healesville Grand Hotel is certainly worth a look inside to appreciate the beauty of this recently renovated local 1880’s icon.

See us for all your function needs from 21st, 40th, 50th birthdays to engagements & weddings.

Our Restaurant has a scrumptious seasonal menu using local produce.

Come in and enjoy our Breakfast Menu available on weekends 8.30am-11.00am with an extensive menu for all tastes.

Touristnews

SPRING 2021 29

GARDENS

GLORIOUS SPRING GARDENS ALOWYN Gardens started in June 1997 when the first spadeful of soil was turned in a bare paddock surrounded by vineyards in the beautiful Yarra Valley, next door to the what is now known as the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery.

After a two-year process of clearing, cleaning and extensive planning, the first trees were planted in the winter of 1999 and many thousands have followed since.

Inspiration for the gardens has been drawn from the many gardens John has visited over the years, but two particularly - the Buchard Gardens in Canada and Het Loo in Apeldoorn, Holland, where John was born - hold special significance.

Alowyn Gardens consists of eight distinctly different areas, linked together with one of Australia’s largest Japanese wisteria arbours, flowering in spectacular fashion for two to three weeks in October each year, followed by the rose display.

The total area of the gardens is about seven acres, which includes an extensive edible garden, a parterre garden, a silver birch forest, perennial border, casuarina forest, small display gardens and of course the wisteria archway.

A fully-stocked extensive nursery is on site and an interesting gift shop sells local produce in season.

Our cafe sells delicious coffee and a range of scones, cakes and toasties.

Alowyn Gardens is a must-see for the general garden enthusiastic who is looking for new ideas or for those visitors who wish to view a beautiful garden for just plain enjoyment.

The venue is open every day from 10am to 5pm, except Christmas Day and Boxing Day. 30 SPRING 2021

Touristnews

12498703-DL40-21

Seven acres of landscaped gardens, including a parterre garden, perennial border, two forests and numerous sculptures. Relax in our café and explore our new extensive nursery. Enjoy a picnic on the lawn in the French style garden.

Touristnews

SPRING 2021 31

WINERIES

CHEERS TO YARRA VALLEY WINES THE Yarra Valley was Victoria’s first wine growing district.

The Yarra Valley Wine Growers Association or Wine Yarra Valley - a non-profit industry association - said the region’s history in wine stretched back nearly 180 years.

The first vines were planted in 1838, production ceased in 1921 due to increased demand for fortified, and replanting started in the late 1960s.

Chardonnay is widely regarded as the Yarra Valley’s premium grape variety, according to Wine Yarra Valley.

More wine drinkers are returning to chardonnay as a new, lighter in weight and less oaky style emerges.

Most of the valley’s sauvignon blancs have roundness and fruit generosity that sets them apart from their New Zealand counterparts, Wine Yarra Valley said.

Pinot grigio tends to be a lighter, dryer and crisper style of white wine while pinot gris is rounder, richer and more fruit-rich.

Marsanne, roussanne and viognier are grown in small amounts in the Yarra Valley.

Semillon and muscadelle are also grown but are generally blended with sauvignon blanc, and other white varieties include arneis, chenin blanc, gewurtztraminer, Riesling and gruner veltliner.

Premium sparkling wines tend to be associated with prime chardonnay and pinot noir regions, like the Yarra Valley.

Wines with more chardonnay and a relatively shorter aging period will be fresher, lighter and crisper, Wine Yarra Valley said.

Those with more pinot noir or extended aging might be richer, fuller bodied and more yeasty.

Rose is not quite white, not quite red and Yarra Valley producers

typically make drier versions that are soft and refreshing.

The pinot noir grape variety produces the most sought-after red wines from the Yarra Valley.

According to Wine Yarra Valley, these wines can be perfumed and aromatic, more fruity, savoury and earthy, or densely flavoured and structured. With few exceptions, cabernet sauvignon is most suited to the warmer Yarra Valley sites, along the Maroondah and Melba highways.

Wine Yarra Valley said the best local examples had an aromatic character and an elegance that was rarely found in fuller bodied reds from warmer Australian regions.

Warmer, lower altitude vineyards also seem more suited to shiraz or syrah. Yarra syrah is more medium-bodied and can be intensely savoury, a little smoky and a little like fermented meats and olives. Other producers make a richer, more shirazlike style that’s more elegant than warmer-region reds.

Whatever your taste, it’s well covered in the Valley.

Cellar door specialising in wines made from 100% blueberries.

Cellar door, cider bar and orchard located 800m past Healesville Sanctuary.

Wines tastings and sales, small plates daily, relaxed atmosphere, child and dog friendly.

Real Australian Cider made with real Australian fruit made onsite.

Only 800m past Healesville Sanctuary.

Cider tastings and sales, small plates daily, relaxed atmosphere, child and dog friendly.

Open Thursday – Monday 10am to 5pm

Open Thursday – Monday 10am to 5pm

11 Garnook Grove, Badger Creek www.blueberrywinery.com.au 03 5962 1601

11 Garnook Grove, Badger Creek www.stronanscider.com.au 03 5962 1601

12432331-SN49-19

32 SPRING 2021

Touristnews

WINERIES

Q&A WITH ALISON WITHERS THE Driessen family has been growing blueberries for two generations. Over the decades the business has evolved to become a successful winery and cellar door as Badger Creek Blueberry Winery business manager Alison Withers explains.

Tell us your story. How did you become involved in the wine industry?

Our story begins in the early 90s when my husband’s family who were blueberry growers needed to create a product they could sell in the winter months when there were no fresh blueberries, so blueberry wine was created. I came into wine industry when I joined the business in 2007.

Tell us about the wine you produce. What sets it apart?

Our wine is made from blueberries not grapes! It really does pique people’s interest and they are pleasantly surprised once they’ve tasted it.

Being a fruit wine most people have already formed an opinion on it before they’ve tried it but it’s not quite as sweet as expected.

We liken our blueberry still wine to a sweeter style rose. It is served chilled and is a fabulous summer drink.

Which is your personal favourite and why?

Our blueberry sparkling. It is made in the methode traditionelle style and it has just the right amount of sweetness with a hint of acid, excellent with some local cheese like Stone and Crow Moonshine.

What is the outlook for this year’s vintage?

This years’ vintage is just about to kick off and is looking like a good one!

Aside from wine, what else do you offer visitors?

Light lunches, St Ronan’s Cider tastings, house made preserves made from fruit and veg we grow on the property.

What do you love about working in the Yarra Valley?

Being surrounded by the mountains and fresh air.

Touristnews

What is your favourite meal to enjoy with a glass of your own wine?

Something with a bit of heat to it, a red duck curry or a beef vindaloo.

How did the Covid restrictions affect your business?

By not being able to have customers from near and far be able to sit with a drink in hand and enjoy our newly renovated space. Life was certainly a little slower, but we’ve come back reinvigorated and ready for a bumper summer in the valley.

How do you relax and unwind in your spare time?

Drinking wine and having lunch with friends at all the different wineries the valley has to offer!

What are your favourite places to take visitors in the Yarra Valley?

Meleto’s for a long lazy lunch, Tarrawarra for a walk around the gallery and glass of wine on the deck, or a walk around Badger Weir.

SPRING 2021 33

FARM FRESH

PICK FRESH AND HAVE FUN

Jola and John Stewart with Raspberries on their farm.

people pre-order to ensure they get what they need.

Jay Berries is open six days a week 8.30am-4.30pm and closed every Saturday. The farm’s berry season runs from October to May depending on the seasonal weather, so there is plenty of time to enjoy picking in autumn when the weather is mild and the fruit is sweet.

12481867-SN40-21

VALLEY and run by John and Jola Stewart.

It offers visitors a pick-your-own experience in Wandin East.

John and Jola have grown strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries for over 25 years and have diversified into tourism for the past nine years.

The weigh and pay system for u-pick gives visitors value for what they take home, especially for family groups where some people want large quantities of luscious fruit and others a small amount. An entry fee of $5 for those 5 years old and over and $2 for ages 2-4 years makes it affordable for family groups who want to share a great day out for all. The price per kilogram of berries does vary with the type of fruit but John and Jola said it is considered great value by those who visit regularly.

John said the farm is operated on safe-to-eat practices where chemical sprays are not used on any of the u-pick fruit or vegies.

“We use nature to control nature and are happy with the results of safe and healthy berries for the customers,” he said.

Jay Berries also make their own jams and cordials from fresh berries which can be tasted before purchasing.

“The natural berry flavours are unlike any others and have nothing artificial added to them, following the policy of fresh is best in all our products,” John said.

“Our homemade berry slushies are a popular request on many customer’s lists after they have finished picking all the berries they desire, especially the young.”

For those who want to relax with the family there is indoor and outdoor seating with a small cafe offering drinks and snacks.

On the tour, visitors can hear how Jay Berries grows and maintains different crops in an eco-friendly way.

Freshly picked berries are also for sale in the shop and many

• U-Pick berries and vegetables.

• Enjoy products made from our berries.

• Kids love our Berry Tractor ride!

• Relax with a fresh coffee.

• Refresh with a real fruit frozen slushy. • Home made Jams.

Visit jayberries.com.au to see what’s ripe for picking Open Sun to Fri 8.30am – 4.30pm • 140 Wandin Creek Road Wandin East, Victoria 34 SPRING 2021

Touristnews

XXXXXXXXXX

Buy Fresh Cherries and Cherry Products Why not pick up a box (or two or three) of fresh cherries, direct from Wandin Valley Farms during packing season (late Oct to late Jan).

Or taste our beautiful range of cherry jams, relishes, sauces and pastes - at any time of year.

Closed Christmas Day and New Years Day Check www.wandinvalleyfarms.com.au for any updates on shop opening times and days

47 Hunter Road Wandin North Tel: 5964 4669 Email: shop@wandinvalleyfarms.com.au 12470066-NG51-20

Touristnews

SPRING 2021 35

FARM FRESH

SOURCE SOME DELICIOUS RED GEMS WANDIN Valley Farms loves cherries. From growing to packing and distributing, cherries are their life.

Since 1893, the Sebire family has proudly grown "only the finest fresh cherries", beginning with their first orchard at Mont de Lancey farm in Wandin North. Wandin Valley Farms is now fully owned and operated by the Sebire and Jones families, with three generations of the family actively involved in the business.

The delicious red gems are sourced from three farms across Victoria and Tasmania; each site has been chosen for its ideal and specific growing and climactic conditions.

Wandin Valley Farms' cherries are then packed at its state-ofthe-art packing and distribution facility in the Yarra Valley.

This recently upgraded facility provides packing and dispatch services to a wide range of domestic and international markets.

The orchards focus on growing traditional dark cherries, as well as a small quantity of blush cherries.

To complement their sweet cherry production, Wandin Valley Farms also grow sour cherries which are available from late December each season, and Sweet Pixie Cherry Plums, which are harvested throughout January.

During the packing season of late October to late January, the Wandin Valley Farms shop is open to cherry lovers who are invited to come and pick up a delicious treat.

Pick up a box (or two, or three!) of fresh cherries direct from the farm, or take home one of the beautiful cherry jams, relishes, sauces and pastes so you can enjoy the flavour all year round.

The shop is located at the packing and distribution facility at 47 Hunter Road, Wandin North.

During packing season the shop is usually open 9.00am to

5.00pm, seven days a week, however this will vary according to supply.

Please check the calendar at www.wandinvalleyfarms.com.au/ shop for scheduled opening hours.

Fresh & Fruity Family Fun This Summer 7E HAVE 5 0ICK &RUIT !,, 9EAR s FRUIT TASTING ADVENTURE TOURS

Ride around the farm behind the tractor a covered trailer - discover a new fruit, sample tasty fruit in season, Pick your own fruit straight from the tree. Suitable for ALL ages, eat as much as you like taste at least 8 fruit varieties.

Tour duration - 1 hour.

No bookings required s */). 53 !4 0%!#( #!&% &/2 ,5.#(

8 SLFN %HUULHV )UHVK )UXLW 6DOHV *LIW 6KRS 3DUNHU 5G 6LOYDQ 8 3LFN &KHUULHV &KDSPDQ 5G 6LOYDQ ZZZ XSLFNEHUULHV FRP DX

PH: 9737 9400

Visit our farm cafe and check out our latest range of Jams, chutneys, preserved fruit & fruit leathers.

12324670-HM50-16

´3LFN <RXU 2ZQµ EHUULHV DQG FKHUULHV RU EX\ IUHVK SLFNHG IURP WKH IDUP JDWH VHDVRQDOO\ *LIW 6KRS RSHQ GXULQJ VHDVRQ WLPHV 6DPSOH EHUU\ MDPV PDGH DW WKH IDUP ,FH FUHDP FROG GULQNV WDNH DZD\ IRRG 3OHDVH FKHFN WKH )UXLW 5HSRUW RQ RXU ZHEVLWH EHIRUH \RX YLVLW WR HQVXUH IUXLW DYDLODELOLW\ -XVW KRXU·V GULYH IURP 0HOERXUQH 2SHQ 1RYHPEHU $SULO

/0%. %6%29$!9 !- 0-

Fresh Frozen U-Pick

Visit our fruit plant nursery located on the farm stocking 100’s of fruiting plants, specialising in dwarf varieties.

5964 7654 60 Schoolhouse Rd, Woori Yallock 3139

36 SPRING 2021

12427299-CG50-19

s &25)4 0,!.4 .523%29

www.raynersorchard.com.au

Touristnews

MARKETS

RACE INTO THE MARKET THERE’S just something about the season of spring that makes everyone feel a little more joyous and a little more hopeful.

The warmer, sunnier weather is an invitation to get out and explore the world - and there’s plenty of exploring to do at our Yarra Glen Racecourse Market.

After a difficult few months, our stallholders are ready to open up again and can’t wait to see you.

At Craft Markets Australia we pride ourselves on high quality products in beautiful locations around Victoria. We offer more than just markets; we offer experiences, and an opportunity to check out places you might have forgotten about, or have never visited before.

If you haven’t been to our Yarra Glen Racecourse Market, let us set the scene.

The racecourse is in the heart of Yarra Glen, a quaint but bustling little town in the heart of the Yarra Valley, just minutes from the tourist mecca of Healesville.

The racecourse on the edge of town is the perfect spot for our stallholders and guests to meet in a Covid-safe way.

Overlooked by the nearby hills and mountains, the racecourse has plenty of space for parking and socially-distanced marketgoing.

You’ll find hundreds of stallholders selling their handmade, home grown and individually-produced goods, from classics jams, cheese and chutneys to bespoke pieces of jewellery, ready to adorn you.

Find delicious vegan chocolates, the ever-popular spiced nuts and so many varieties of fudge that you won’t know which to buy. (Our recommendation? All of them!)

We recommend you arrive on an empty stomach - besides the

treats we’ve already mentioned, our food truck stallholders will keep you well-fed and there’s something for every taste bud.

Fresh vegan burgers - check. Dumplings? We got you. Giant spring rolls? Go for it! Delicious fluffy scones? They’re all right here at Yarra Glen!

All of our stallholders are small businesses who’ve done it tough recently. Come along and support them, whether by buying some of their wares or simply picking up a card to follow them and give them a shout out on Twitter. They’d love to see you and show you what they’ve been busy making and growing.

Our Yarra Glen Racecourse Market is on Sunday 3 October, Sunday 7 November and Sunday 5 December, with a special twilight Christmas market on Saturday 11 December.

For more information and updates visit our website, craftmarkets.com.au or find us on Facebook.

Fir Sun st d of t ay h Mo e nth

H

2021 “ Family friendly makers market featuring 300 stalls of unique hand crafted products & food”

SUNDAY 7TH NOV & DEC 5TH SPECIAL TWILIGHT DEC 11TH Entry via Armstrong Grove, off Healesville - Yarra Glen Rd. Yarra Glen/ Parking $5 Please check our website for future dates www.craftmarkets.com.au

Healesville River Street Markets

12508310-JW40-21

SUNDAY 3RD OCT

EALESVILLE COMMUNITY MARKET INC. 8.00am - 1.30pm

River Street Car Park

Coronation Park

1st Sunday of the Month

3rd Sunday of the Month

Stallholder Enquiries Welcome

Stallholder Enquiries Welcome

Contact: 0488 445 112 Large variety of Stalls including: s (OME MADE CAKES CANDLES CLOTHING CRAFT JAMS SOAPS s .EW CARPETS CLOTHING COLLECTABLES PAPER CARDS

SHOES TOOLS WOOL s 0LANTS BULBS CUT mOWERS POTTED PLANTS TREES SEEDLINGS ETC s 0RODUCE EGGS FRUIT VEGETABLES s 2ECYCLED BOOKS BRIC A BRAC $6$S #$S

CLOTHING FURNITURE s 4OOLS NEW OLD s (OT FOOD DRINKS AVAILABLE See us on 12405732-FA38-19

Touristnews

SPRING 2021 37

LISTINGS GALLERIES & GIFTS Den of Antiquities 25a Bell Street Yarra Glen Open: Wednesday - Monday 10.30am - 5pm 9730 2111 Ruby Tuesdays 90-94 Melbourne Hill Rd Warrandyte VIC 3113 Open 9am–5pm Mon - Friday Sat 9-4pm (03) 9844 4600 www.rubytuesday.com Art at Linden Gate 899 Healesville-Yarra Glen Rd Yarra Glen VIC 3776 Phone: (03) 9730 1862 artatlindengategallery.com.au artatlindengate@gmail.com 10am-5pm Fri-Mon & Public Hols Monbulk Jewellers 102 Main Rd, Monbulk VIC 3793 Phone: (03) 9756 7652 Open Mon Sat

MARKETS Eltham Community Craft & Produce Market Alistair Knox Park, Panther Place Eltham 3rd Sunday of every month 8.30am - 12.30pm 0401 288 027 Bollygum Market 40 Whittlesea-Kinglake Rd, Kinglake VIC 3763 2nd Sunday of the Month Kallista Community Market 2 Church Street Kallista 1st Saturday of the Month 9am - 1pm 0402 012 247 Healesville Community Market River Street Car Park 1st Sunday of the Month Coronation Park 3rd Sunday of the Month 0488 445 112 Yarra Glen Craft Market Armstrong Grove Yarra Glen Craft Market 1st Sunday of the Month

38 SPRING 2021

ACCOMMODATION & RESTAURANTS Monbulk Bowling Club 11 Moores Road Monbulk Bowling Club 9756 6183 Ferntree Gully Hotel 1130 Burwood Highway Ferntree Gully Hotel 9758 6544 www.ferntreegullyhotel.com.au Grand Hotel Healesville 270 Maroondah Highway Healesville 5962 4003 www.healesvillegrandhotel.com.au Sanctuary House Restaurant & Resort Motel 326 Badger Creek Road Healesville 5962 5148 www.sanctuaryhouse.com.au York on Lilydale Resort Cnr York & Swansea Rd Mt Evelyn 9736 4000 www.yorkonlilydale.com.au Alpine Retreat 3340 Warburton Hwy Warburton VIC 3799 (03) 5966 2411 www.alpineretreat.com.au

THROUGH THE CELLAR DOOR Badger Creek Blueberry Farm St Ronans Cider 11 Garnook Grove Badger Creek 5962 1601 Open: Thurs - Mon 10am - 5pm www.blueberrywinery.com.au Bottlemart Healesville Grand Green Street Healesville 5962 4003 www.bottlemart.com.au/specialsvic Greenstone Vineyard 179 Glenview Rd Yarra Glen Open Thurs to Mon, 10am - 5pm 9730 1022 www.greenstonevineyards.com.au

Tokar Estate 6 Maddens Lane Coldstream Open 10.30am - 5pm Daily 5964 9585 www.tokarestate.com.au Sutherland Estate 2010 Melba Hwy Dixons Creek 0402 052 287 www.sutherlandestate.com.au Yileena Park 271 Steels Creek Rd Yarra Glen VIC 3775 Open- Mon- Sun 11am- 5pm (03) 9730 1977 www.yileenapark.com.au Wild Cattle Creek Estate 472 Warburton Hwy, Wandin North VIC 3137 Phone: (03) 5964 4755 www.wildcattlecreek.com.au

EMERGENCY CONTACTS FIRE, POLICE, AMBULANCE 000 Wildlife Victoria Emergency Response 1300 094 535 Fire Victorian Bushfire info line 1800 240 667 Belgrave Police Station 9754 6677

Monbulk Pharmacy 98 Main Rd Monbulk 9756 6273 Yarra Glen Pharmacy 34 Bell Street Yarra Glen 7930 1433

DOCTORS Belgrave Medical Clinic 1575 Burwood Hwy Belgrave 9757 8000 Get Well Clinic 408 Maroondah Highway Healesville 5962 4030 Emerald Medical Centre 1 Murphys Way Emerald P: 5968 4622 Monbulk Family Clinic Yarra Valley Clinic 223 Maroondah Highway Healesville 5962 4633 Yarra Valley Clinic 223-225 Maroondah Hwy Healeville 5962 4489 Yarra Glen Clinic 1 Symonds Street Yarra Glen 9730 2536

Emerald Police Station 5954 0200

CAFES & GARDENS

Healesville Police Station 5962 4422

Warratina Lavender Farm 105 Quayle Rd Woori Yallock Open: Wednesday - Sunday 10am - 4pm 5964 4650 Allowyn Gardens 1210 Melba Highway Yarra Glen 9730 2400 www.alowyngardens.com.au Beechworth Bakery 316 Maroondah Highway Healesville Open daily 6.30am - 6pm 1300 233 784 www.BeechworthBakery.com.au Big Bouquet 27 Barak Lane Healesville Open 7 Days 10am - 5pm 5962 2283 Grants on Sherbrooke 70 Monbulk Rd Kallista Open 7 Days 9am - 5pm 9755 2888 www.grantsonsherbrooke.com.au

Lilydale Police Station 9730 1296 Yarra Glen Police Station 9730 1296 Belgrave Pharmacy 1639 Burwood Hwy Belgrave 9754 2001 Cockatoo Pharmacy 36/38 McBride St Cockatoo 5968 8555 Emerald Village Pharmacy 8 Kilvington Dr Emerald 5968 3023 Healesville Walk Pharmacy Healesville Walk Maroondah Highway Healesville 5962 4165 Healesville Pharmacy 215 Maroondah Highway Healesville 5962 5845

Touristnews

INDUSTRY NEWS

WINE LEADERS OF TOMORROW

BY JED LANYON

THE Yarra Valley wine industry was well represented among Wine Australia’s Future Leaders program, which aims to develop leaders of the Australia grape and wine community.

Fifteen of the most dynamic and skilled members of the Australian wine community joined the roll call of the grape and wine sector’s professional and personal development program, four of which hail from the Yarra Valley.

Wine Australia CEO and chair of the Future Leaders selection panel Andreas Clark said the applications this year were outstanding.

“Almost 100 applications were received for this year’s program and it was a highly competitive field,” he said. “It was exciting to hear more about the incredible skills and diverse experiences of people within our community – and it was difficult to select just 15 people.

“The 15 Future Leaders selected will experience some changes to the program compared to previous years. Over the past 18 months our sector has experienced significant disruption and we recognise that the skills that we need to develop have evolved. I look forward to meeting with the Future Leaders group to discuss how we can work towards making lasting differences and support our grape and wine community through ongoing uncertainty.’

The Future Leaders comprise members from across the breadth of the sector including viticulturists, winemakers, consultants, scientists, communicators and executives.

Steven Faulkner, senior viticulturist at Coldstream’s Oakridge Wines, said he was humbled to be joining Future Leaders.

“Being chosen from amongst my peers, gives me confidence in myself and the direction I have chosen in the wine industry. I look forward to gaining leadership skills that I need to impact the wine industry in a positive professional way. I love my career in the vineyard, and I want to share it with others and encourage other people to enter into viticulture.”

Mr Faulkner shared what he hopes to take away from the leadership program.

“Leadership skills that will enable (me) to continue to help those involved in viticulture to learn, develop themselves and to continue with their careers in viticulture. There is a shortage of viticulture professionals, and the more people we can retain and the more new people we can give an interest in the field to, the better.”

Mavis Zhang is a winemaker turned consultant working for Wine Network Consulting in Healesville.

Through her work Ms Zhang provides clients with everything from technical services such as winery design and winery engineering projects to business advice and strategy while helping potential investors determine their best options in the wine industry.

“One of the things I really appreciate about the program is recognising a very diverse background and involving more female Future Leaders, that’s one of the things that strikes me, there’s nine ladies in there and that’s really impressive and encouraging and I feel very honoured to be one of those.”

For Ewan Proctor, the Future Leaders program is the start of a new chapter as his career in the international wine export market was hampered due to the Covid-19 pandemic. A move he called a “kick in the guts”.

Having spent most of the last decade overseeing export markets across Asia and North America, Mr Proctor turned to the domestic market and while he is listed as a wine consultant, he jokes that it’s a “cover up” for being underemployed.

Touristnews

Steven Faulkner, senior viticulturist of Oakridge Wines.

Katherine Herd, production manager at Domaine Chandon.

Mr Proctor described being named as a Future Leader as “Very validating” after a difficult year.

“I’m sure there will be an element of personal growth, but what really excites me is being able to meet and learn amongst a network of my peers… I look forward to deepening my knowledge of the sector as a whole.”

Mr Proctor said he was “stoked” to see over a quarter of the applicants chosen live or work in the Yarra Valley.

“That shows so much of what I’ve always believed in that the Yarra Valley is a special, special place… To have four people go through the program and hopefully contribute to pushing the Valley further and further ahead.”

Katherine Herd is the production manager at Domaine Chandon in Coldstream. She’s worked in the Australian wine industry in Australia for the last 10 years as well as in New Zealand for some time Ms Herd’s role has her oversee the process of taking the wine from the winemakers to be packaged for the public to enjoy. Ms Herd was named a Future Leader and described it as “exciting” as she said her role doesn’t typically get a lot of exposure within the industry.

“To be honest, it feels really great. I’ve invested a lot of time and energy in the wine industry and my career, both here and in New Zealand. It feels great to be recognised as someone who can play a big part in the future of the wine industry.

“A big part of the program is about personal development with workshops and sessions designed specifically to create leaders.

I want to take away as much as I can to refine the leadership skills I currently have and to learn from the best.”

“It’s a huge opportunity to increase my understanding of the wine industry and the challenges it faces and learn how I can help and use my skills and experience to help the Yarra Valley wine industry.”

SPRING 2021 39

12511916-NG40-21

40 SPRING 2021

Touristnews