Tourist News - Autumn 2022

Touristnews YARRA VALLEY, THE DA DANDENONGS AND THE RANGES

AUTUMN 2022

FREE

BIRD WATCHING IN THE VALLEY

EXPERIENCE ALOWYN GARDENS PUMPKIN HARVEST

DANDENONG RANGES GARDEN GETAWAYS

AUTUMN

THE CHANGING OF COLOURS

CONTENTS

AUTUMN 2022

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YARRA VALLEY ‘TOP’ SPOT

YARRA VALLEY MOUNTAIN BIKING

THE KALORAMA CHESTNUT FESTIVAL

WINERIES

EDITOR RENEE WOOD Email: editor@mailcommunity.com.au

TRACK CLOSURES STILL REMAIN

WHAT’S ON IN THE ARTS

Touristnews YARRA VALLEY, VALLEY Y THE DANDENONGS DA AND THE RANGES

AUTUMN 2022

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

FREE

BIRD WATCHING IN THE VALLEY

EXPERIENCE ALOWYN GARDENS PUMPKIN HARVEST

DANDENONG RANGES GARDEN GETAWAYS

SPOTTING LOCAL BIRDS

MARKETS

COVER: Autumn is a wonderful time at Alowyn Gardens in Yarra Glen, as rich hues spread throughout with the changing of the season.

The pumpkin harvest is also a treat for visitors, highlighting a variety of the vegetable through their extensive display.

The cover photo highlights this special time, image used courtesy of Alowyn Gardens. For more turn to page 14.

AUTUMN

THE CHANGING OF COLOURS

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Touristnews

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THINGS to do in YARRA GLEN 3

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Gulf Station Wineries

Autumn is the best time to stop by and enjoy a wine tasting or dine in high end hospitality offering.

The choices are endless, with local wineries based in Yarra Glen and near by in Dixon’s Creek, Gruyere and Coldstream.

Winery tours can also be arranged through locally based companies.

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Antiques

For those who love to rummage for the diamond in the rough, Yarra Glen is your place to find the perfect collectors item.

Bell Street is home to three antique stores, all stocked with hidden treasures for bargain hunters to find.

Den of Antiquities, Yarra Valley Antiques shop and Treasures from the Past are brimming with items visitors will find interesting just to look at or purchase.

Established in the 1850s, Gulf Station was farmed for nearly 100 years by the Bell family and it’s a popular spot to learn more about the local history. Scottish settlers Agnes and William Bell were the first to lease the land where the property was established and for a century it supplied produce to gold miners.

Gulf Station hosts regular events and activities including Heritage Festivals, Talks, Workshops and Lost Tradition Days. Visit are welcome the first Thursday of each month 10am to 2pm at 1029 Melba Highway, Yarra Glen 3775 VIC.

Enjoy a day at the park Markets and race days

The Yarra Valley Racing Racecourse is home to many race meetings but also regular markets as well. Yarra Glen Craft Market is a popular attraction, with arts, crafts, food and more available. Hundreds of stallholders will line the open paths which is wonderful to wander through.

For more information, turn to page 29

Yarra Glen Adventure Park at McKenzie Reserve is the perfect spot for families and friends to gather and enjoy the playground and scenery.

There is plenty of play equipment on offer for children, while picnic tables and green spaces can be used for by visitors.

The local ANZAC memorial is also in close proximity. Visit Cnr Anzac Ave & Bell Street, Yarra Glen VIC 3775.

THREE FACTS ABOUT AUTUMN AUTUMN OR FALL?

PEOPLE BORN IN AUTUMN LIVE LONGER

WE typically think of ‘fall’ as the North American version of the word ‘autumn’, but it was in fact in widespread usage in England until relatively recently.

A study in the Journal of Aging Research found that babies born during the autumn months are more likely to live to 100 than those born during the rest of the year. Their study found that 30 per cent of US centenarians born during 1880-1895 were born in the autumn months.

Originally a shortening of the phrase fall of the leaf, the phrase was common in England in the 17th century.

The word autumn entered English from the French automne and didn’t become common usage until the 18th century.

BRINGS GOOD LUCK According to superstition, when a person catches a falling leaf during autumn, good luck will come to them.

Yarra Valley Rentals caters for couples, families and small groups who would like a weekend away or a short break in self contained accommodation where you can enjoy the beautiful Yarra Valley area at your pace! We manage several different holiday rentals from small cottages to larger modern homes.

• Fully self contained • Close proximity to Walking Tracks, Yarra River & Wineries • Gift Vouchers available

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YOUR PERFECT SHORT STAY STARTS HERE

To organise your next short stay, contact Yarra Valley Rentals 2460 Warburton Hwy, Yarra Junction Vic 3797 • Phone: 03 5967 2688 Email: info@warburtonaccomm.com.au • Web: www.yarravalleyrentals.com.au

Touristnews

AUTUMN 2022 3

NEWS

YARRA VALLEY NAMED ‘TOP TOWN’

BY RENEE WOOD THE Yarra Valley is shining bright on the national stage for tourism offerings, being named as number four in Wotif’s top ten Aussie towns for 2022.

Yarra Ranges Tourism CEO Simon O’Callaghan said it’s a great accolade to receive for the region, especially after a tiring time due to the pandemic.

“The Wotif announcement was a fantastic surprise and I think it vindicates the hard work that our tourism operators do to deliver an excellent visitor experience for those that come here,” Mr O’Callaghan said.

The finalists are generated using the accommodation website’s data by how much user traffic is going towards searches and bookings in the area.

The Wotif list states that the Yarra Valley is ‘full of character and charm’ with plenty on offer less than an hours drive from Melbourne.

Mr O’Callaghan agrees that the proximity to the CBD is helping to promote the area as a visitor hotspot.

“Our accessibility to Melbourne is absolutely one of our strengths, we’re well serviced for a whole breadth of experiences,” he said.

“From our hero world class wine to our nature based experiences across national parks and state forests to our merging cycling culture.”

Yarra Valley Lodge was profiled in the announcement linked as a provider for people to stay with.

Kate Cooper from the Lodge said it’s very encouraging for her and the team.

“Off the back of pretty hard couple of years for tourism and hospitality to have this type of accolade within the region and for us to be linked is a great feeling,” Ms Cooper said.

Ms Cooper said the lodge is starting to see booking confidence increase for the year ahead.

The Yarra Valley Lodge has been profiled in the Wotif’s list of top 10 Aussie towns.

Picture: Supplied

“We’re seeing a definite pickup in people traveling over the weekend and people booking events and almost just getting on with their life and events,” she said.

This follows on previous increases in visitation from Melbourne residents and regional Victoria when lockdowns ended.

“To have a region that’s within Victoria that’s not that far from the CBD it just gives that extra encouragement and motivation for people to stick still within Victoria and spend their money here after the last couple of years.”

Operators are anticipating more interstate and international travellers will be visiting as borders open up and major events are also helpful in driving tourists into the area.

“We’ve seen even through things like the Australian Open in January, that the role of events and dispersing people from major events will continue to be important,” Mr O’Callaghan said.

“The wide ranging tour and transport options that we had preCovid will be also another thing that we’re looking forward to getting back to a stage of regular trade.”

It’s hoped more confidence among travellers, borders reopening and accolades like the Wotif top four acknowledgement will all contribute to rejuvenate the sector to previous standards.

“Hopefully it gives our operators a real sense of civic pride that the job they do to give great service and experience is well appreciated by those that come to you,” he said.

BUBBLEGUM BREW BEST AUS GIN

BY PARKER MCKENZIE BELGRAVE-BASED distillery GinFinity has won the Best Australian Signature Botanical at the World Gin Awards 2022.

GinFinity, which opened its doors to the public in March 2021, is co-owned by brothers Ben and Cal Pratt with their cousin Andrew.

Ben Pratt said it was “tremendously exciting” to win the award for their bubblegum gin.

“It was so exciting and took us all by surprise. We’re just absolutely rapt,” he said.

“This particular gin we’re talking about - the bubblegum gin - is a newer product, we developed it about six months ago.”

The two brothers and their cousin have been distilling liquors for 16 years and dabbled in brewing beer too.

Mr Pratt said the idea for the gin started when they tried the flavouring technique in rum.

“We’re very interested in fermentation side of things, so we are always playing around with different sorts of wild fermentation and different inoculations trying to produce different esters,” he said.

“We thought that we could probably combine a couple and produce the same ester that makes bubblegum flavour, “We were successful in producing that and then we thought it 4 AUTUMN 2022

GinFinity’s Ben and Cal with their International award winning gin.

Picture: Stewart Chambers

would be amazing to put that in into botanical gin.”

An ester is a molecule of alcohol which binds with an acid during the distilling process to create flavors and aromas.

Mr Pratt said it’s been a long road, but they couldn’t have asked for a better start to 2022 after the last few years.

“The whole industry will know it’s been a tough one,” he said.

“Whether it’s being able to open or having to be closed and serving takeaway, and then staff staffing issues, it’s been a bit of a rollercoaster.”

Touristnews

ATTRACTIONS

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Pictures: Supplied

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With courses in Coldstream, Cockatoo and Ballan, Paintball Games is a great way to burn some energy and have fun with family and friends.

There are options for adult paintball, for patrons 16 years and over, and low-impact paintball (known as Splatmaster or Miniball), for those eight years and above.

The adult paintballs are traditional, full sized .68 calibre paintball markers that travel at 300 feet per second. The lowimpact paintballs are .50 calibre and use pump-action paintball markers.

Following legislation introduced in 2015, any non-prohibited person who is 16 years of age or over may participate in paintball gaming on an approved Victorian range without a license.

There are plenty of options for different packages, with adult games including 200 paintballs starting at $50 per person, 500 paintballs for $85 per person and 600 paintballs for $100.

Kids prices start at $40 per child for 300 paintballs or $50 per child for 400 paintballs.

All prices include vests, overalls, goggles and markers, as well as a basic introduction to how to safely conduct yourself on the course and how to use the provided equipment.

Group specials available for adult and low-impact packages.

For more information, visit www.paintballgames.com.au or phone (03) 9777 0613.

Paintball Games Ballan: 19 Aldreds Lane, Colbrook. Paintball Games Cockatoo: 200a Evans Road, Cockatoo. Paintball Games Coldstream: 5 Maxwells Road, Coldstream.

• equipment hire included • 50cal low impact markers • BBQ area available Call Daniel Touristnews

9777 0613 or book online at www.paintballgames.com.au AUTUMN 2022 5

NEWS

The Red Rattler train arriving at Belgrave Station for the first time in 18 years.

Pictures: Parker Mckenzie

The historic train idling at the station.

RED RATTLER RETURNS TO RAILWAY

BY PARKER MCKENZIE

THE historic Red Rattler trains have hit the tracks for the first time in 18 years, with a trip from Flinders Street Station to Belgrave Station to mark the occasion.

After multiple attempts to revive the steam locomotive trains since they ceased operation in 2004, 8 March was the first time the tait train, known more commonly as the Red Rattlers, has made a trip with riders since.

Steamrail Victoria Safety Manager Kevin Clark said after 18 years it is fantastic to relaunch the tait train.

“The restored train will bring much happiness to those who travel on it. It will be a great opportunity for older travellers to reminisce about the past,” he said.

“Younger folk can experience an electric train from a bygone era.”

The first Red Rattler steam-hauled trains were commissioned in 1910. The train was also the first to operate on electric rail service in Australia when it ran between Sandringham and Essendon in 1919.

After arriving at Belgrave Station aboard the Red Rattler, La Trobe MP Jason Wood said it was important to thank all the

volunteers who made the restoration possible.

“I remember catching the old Red Rattler trains and the blue ones when I was a schoolboy going to Ferntree Gully Technical School,” he said.

“This has been a long-term personal project, as I said I made an election commitment of $1 million dollars.”

Steamrail Victoria received a $1 million grant from the Federal Government to return a train to service, which was used on safety enhancements, an exterior repaint and additional carriages.

The project included collaboration between several key stakeholders, including the accredited operator V/Line, Metro Trains, the Department of Transport, RTBU union and Downer Group.

The refurbished Red Rattler train will operate on a limited basis throughout 2022 while additional carriages are returned to service.

The first chance for the public to ride on the train will be in May when shuttle trips from Berwick to Dandenong and Pakenham begin. The train will also connect with Puffing Billy when it arrives at Belgrave Station.

For information visit steamrail.com.au

GOING GREEN’S THE NEW FLAVOUR

BY RENEE WOOD

BECOMING carbon neutral is starting to be a key asset for many producers in the Yarra Ranges, including distillers and brewers.

Healesville distillery Four Pillars and Healesville brewer Matilda Bay Brewery have both recently received the certification.

Four Pillars is the first distiller in the country to achieve this goal in April, following its $7 million dollar expansion.

“From the very first day we distilled gin we have tried to recycle, re-use and replenish our environment and give back to the community,” Four Pillars co-founder Cameron Mackenzie said.

“We cannot give more to the community than assure it that our gins tread carefully on our planet, especially in this time of climate crisis.”

Becoming carbon neutral means to calculate your carbon emissions and offset them by 100 per cent through sustainable measures.

Four pillars reached the classification by reusing produce, donating spent botanicals, solar panels and offsetting its production process by purchasing carbon credits.

Receiving the green tick was also a sustainability goal for Matilda Bay Brewery since it was founded in 2019.

“Beer is a natural product, it’s fundamentally water, malted barley, hops and yeast - that’s it. It follows that the better the 6 AUTUMN 2022

environment around you, the better the quality the output is going to be,” James Aris from Matilda Bay said.

Last financial year the business generated 622 tonnes of emissions, equivalent to 15,700 coffee cups or 2.8 million road miles and this year that has all been offset.

“All food and beverage production is energy intensive and a resource intensive process, so it is our responsibility to try and be as efficient and effective at getting the best product for the best amount of energy that goes in.”

Matilda Bay achieved the certification in 2021 through a whole ecosystem of practices, first starting with running off renewable energy and using a sustainable energy provider.

The business also received a small grant from the State Government to conduct an energy audit on their processes to learn more about their carbon footprint.

They’ve noticed sustainable practices are becoming highly sought after by consumers and dedicated wholesalers looking to purchase stock from environmentally conscious businesses.

“Retailers and the pub groups that we work with they’re increasingly interested in working with sustainable businesses.

So I think we’re starting to see consumers and trade interest increase in doing sustainable business,” Paul O’Brien from Matilda Bay Touristnews

DANDENONG RANGES

ENJOYED FOR GENERATIONS

BY PARKER MCKENZIE

GRANTS Picnic Ground is a much loved destination for tourists and locals alike in Sherbrooke, located 41km east of Melbourne where the wide clearing in Sherbrooke forest is home to an abundance of native birds and animals throughout the year.

The park is home to lyrebirds, wallabies, echidnas, wombats and rare plants and trees. An abundance of the world’s tallest flowering tree, the Mountain Ash, which tower over the picnic ground as people enjoy the trails and barbecue areas.

Some of the trails are only a short distance, while others can take up to two hours to walk. At the beginning of the trails sits Grants on Sherbrooke, a restaurant, cafe and bar that can trace its heritage to the tea rooms located on the grounds.

The tea rooms at Grants Picnic Ground in Sherbrooke have a long history, starting with William Grant — who the area was named after — selling boiling water from a tin shed to tourists frequenting the mountain after he settled in the area in 1900.

The original kiosk and tea rooms were built in the 1950s or 1960s, with a contemporary flat roof and flagstone cladding. It was a single-storey, simple and rectangular building, featuring four double doors across the front and wooden booths and small wooden tables providing seating for guests to enjoy their refreshments.

It served locals, day-trippers and international tourists, with the location being one of the few where people could feed wild birds in their natural habitat.

In 2000, current owners Geoff and Cheryl Campbell took over the lease of the kiosk and the Dandenong Ranges’ locals renovated the building in 2004 to feature a licensed restaurant and bar, takeaway area, a collection of Australiana souvenirs and a decking area under the Mountain Ash Sherbrooke Forest.

Cockatoo friends will soon become yours when you visit Grants Picnic Grounds.

Crimson Rosellas are often seen at the grounds.

It certainly is a popular attraction with up to 750,000 people visiting the grounds each year - it is located at 70 Monbulk Road, Kallista.

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 Wood Fire • Take-Away Food • Indoor and Alfresco Dining

• Events • Disabled Facilities and Access • Open 7 days • Evenings by arrangement

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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 Touristnews

AUTUMN 2022 7

DANDENONG RANGES

Stop by Only Mine for gourmet chocolates plus much more.

The Olinda store has plenty of goodies for purchase this season.

CALLING ALL CHOCOLATE LOVERS!

BY ELLE CECIL INDULGE your senses this Autumn and visit Only Mine in Olinda, with the chocolate shop renowned for creating delicious food that appeals to your sight, smell and most of all taste.

After starting the business out of their kitchen in 2015, chocolate-making husband and wife duo Jason Stockton and Anya Tran opened their first store in Olinda in 2017.

Anya leads the production and creation of the chocolates alongside head chocolatier Thomas Weirinck, making specialised chocolates of all shapes and sizes in boxes, bars, buttons and hot drinks.

Jason said the store has something for everyone, including dairy free, gluten free and vegan chocolate options.

“We have a passion for creating high quality products that are out of this world,” says Jason.

“We use only the best couverture chocolate from around the world, which we use to create unique, beautiful and delicious hand-crafted chocolates.”

“We’re driven by the positive feedback our customers give us, and work to maintain that quality in every product we create.”

Following the opening of the Olinda store, Anya and Jason allocated a small factory space in the building where products were made to sell in-store and online. Only Mine has since outgrown this factory space and has moved the factory to Cranbourne West, allowing a beautiful new seating area at the Olinda store.

This seating area is perfect for customers to enjoy the dessert bar, where you can taste a dessert bowl or signature hot chocolate, brewed with Australian full cream milk to create the most chocolatey drink you can imagine.

“Our creations are the perfect product for gifting, even if the gift is for yourself,” Jason says.

“We’re still pushing for more and are excited to share more details of our expansion in the future.”

Only Mine is located at Shop 1, 540 Mount Dandenong-Tourist Road, Olinda.

For more information, phone (03) 5911 2578 or visit www. onlymine.com.au.

8 AUTUMN 2022

Owners Jason Stockton and Anya Tran are excited to meet new visitors this Autumn.

Touristnews

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DANDENONG RANGES

SERVING WITH RUSTIC CHARM

BY ELLE CECIL AT Rustic Cafe in Belgrave, you’ll find great coffee, delicious cakes and treats, a vibrant menu, wonderful staff and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Rustic Cafe has recently celebrated its first birthday after having survived three lockdowns and is now flourishing in the face of adversity.

Driven by a passion for providing great food, delicious coffee and fantastic customer service, the team takes pride in the community feel of the cafe and welcomes regular customers, many of whom are known by their name and their order, every day.

“Our service is unique as we offer a community cafe feel where strangers become friends, families’ children interact and everybody has a crack at the daily crossword,” says cafe owner and chef Matthew Collins.

Following its mantra of ‘elevated simplicity,’ the cafe staff is made up of a group of experienced and passionate hospitality professionals.

Matt has over 25 years of experience as a chef and loved designing the brunch menu to expose local produce and provide customers with the freshest, most delicious product possible.

Baristas Renee and Chloe are local girls with the magic touch, producing perfect coffee and great banter with customers every time.

On-site treat creator Darlene produces the best home baked treats in the hills, bringing back classic treats from your youth with a fresh spin, including an apple rhubarb crumble, lemon slice and decadent chocolate brownie.

Rustic Cafe is located at 1652 Burwood Highway, Belgrave. For more information, search ‘Rustic Cafe Belgrave’ on Facebook.

Open Tuesday to Sunday, 8am to 3pm.

Matt and Renee look forward to seeing you at Rustic Cafe.

RUSTIC CAFE AT RUSTIC CAFÉ BELGRAVE – YOU WILL FIND THE BEST HOME BAKED TREATS IN THE HILLS

DELICIOUS BRUNCH MENU

1652 BURWOOD HIGHWAY BELGRAVE

PERFECT COFFEE & TREATS WITH FRIENDLY CUSTOMER SERVICE – FAMILIES WELCOME

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10 AUTUMN 2022

Barista Renee creates the perfect coffee.

Touristnews

DANDENONG RANGES

CHECK OUT CHESTNUT FESTIVAL

BY PARKER MCKENZIE

THE Kalorama Chestnut Festival is returning in 2022 bigger than ever, with Mt Dandenong Primary School joining Mt Dandenong Kindergarten in hosting the event.

The 100 per cent volunteer-run festival will see a diverse range of stalls showcasing locally made handcrafts and produce, roasted chestnuts, food stalls and more on Sunday 1 May at Kalorama Memorial Reserve.

The event started with parents selling chestnuts out of brown paper bags to raise funds for the kindergarten and has now become a loved family outing for locals and tourists alike.

Kalorama Chestnut Festival committee member Mariana Job said the festival has been running for over 30 years as a fundraiser for the kindergarten, and it is significant this year because it was damaged in the storms in 2021.

“You can still drive past it and it’s surrounded by fencing, they are working out of a temporary space in Olinda Primary School,” she said.

“We really need to rebuild and repair, so much was damaged.”

Ms Job said there would be plenty of entertainment and activities to do at this year’s event.

“This year, we’ve also locked in a chainsaw artist,” she said.

“This chainsaw artist is going to work with one of the trees onsite that fell last year — a chestnut tree — and is going to make sculptures, which will be auctioned off at the festival at the end of the day.”

This year, the festival will have two new chestnut roasters thanks to local businesses and a storm recovery grant from Emerald Rotary, with the roasters being built locally.

The Chestnut Festival will be receiving two new roasters this year.

James Ormsby checks on the roasted chestnuts at a previous festival.

Picture: On file

Ms Job said the support of local businesses and the community, in conjunction with the partnership with Mt Dandenong Primary School, will make the 2022 Festival the biggest one yet.

“Their support has actually been overwhelming, everyone that we’ve reached out to has offered what we’ve asked and more to be honest,” she said.

“We’ve never had so many sponsors, which is really nice after what happened last year. It just feels like a really strong community, we’re a lot closer than we were before the storms.”

Kalorama was one of the areas worst affected by the June 2021 storm weather event and both Mt Dandenong Kindergarten and Mt Dandenong Primary School had their buildings damaged, with some repairs still ongoing.

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Touristnews

AUTUMN 2022 11

DANDENONG RANGES

MAINTAINING YOUR WELLBEING

BY TYLER WRIGHT

THE lush natural environment of the Dandenong Ranges makes for a special escape while also providing the perfect opportunity to look after your health and wellbeing.

A change of environment can improve your mental health, with leisurely walks by waterfalls, bush walks and hikes just a part of the Ranges’ makeup.

But the all-consuming forests you will come across also offer a chance to re-charge, re-group and remind yourself of your capabilities, while getting your endorphins running at full force.

Studies have also shown that being in nature can generate positive emotions, and being connected to the environment can also reduce poor mental health such as depression and anxiety.

Here are some examples of how you can keep your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health intact on your trip to the Dandenong Ranges.

Walk it out A pleasant stroll in Autumn is always a delightful way to explore nature in the Dandenong Ranges as well as looking after your wellbeing.

The red and gold colour of the deciduous trees at Silvan Reservoir Park will have you transported to an oasis. Landscaped picnic areas provide the opportunity to rest and recharge by enjoying a warm drink and admiring the Eucalypt forest.

The Pirianda Gardens on Hacketts Road in Olinda is known for its Autumn hues and tree collection, including 28 different types of maples and 13 birch varieties.

Emerald Lake Park is another spot with walking tracks such as the Kurth Kiln ship rock falls to clear your head and reconnect with the environment.

Channel your inner yogi Channeling your inner yogi and pausing to meditate in the Dandenong Ranges can provide a boost to your wellbeing while on holidays.

Yoga instructor Corinne Newman said a change of scenery is conducive to mental health.

“Sometimes as humans, stepping outside of our routine, and setting off whatever rat wheel we’re on, and just taking a moment

Monbulk local, Jeanette Tatton immersing herself in the environment of the Dandenong Ranges.

Picture: Supplied

for ourselves is the best gift that we can give ourselves,” she said.

And visitors to the Dandenong Ranges will be able to feel the impact of the environment during their stay, allowing them to be in a clear mental space and enjoy new things on their trip.

Local parks with offer a peaceful place for visitors to reflect, meditate and practice yoga by soaking in what nature has to offer.

Get your blood pumping with pilates Pilates instructor Jeanette Titton runs ‘Pilates in the Park’ in Monbulk which allows you to connect to the environment while looking after your health and wellbeing.

“Just being outside is so great for your mental health. It just refreshes everything. So adding movement while being outside is magic,” Ms Titton said.

Pilates is a good option for many people with classes that cater to all different levels of expertise, helping to improve your inner strength while holidaying in the Ranges.

GET AWAY TO A GARDEN THE spectacular gardens dotted throughout the Dandenong Ranges provide perfect venues to enjoy time outdoors with family and friends during Autumn, with the crimson tones bursting all around.

Here are some beautiful gardens which all have their own unique feel and atmosphere you can visit while on a trip to the hills.

Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens in Olinda Formerly known as the The National Rhododendron Garden, the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens offers visitors the largest variety of pretty petals and features exclusive collections of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and other native and exotic trees.

Take a walk along the perfectly curated paths and discover the native plant and wildlife that visitors rave about. These gardens are stunning during autumn from late March through to May. Pirianda Gardens in Olinda Off the beaten track and overlooked by many visitors, Pirianda Gardens is a truly unique experience. Observe the vista views 12 AUTUMN 2022

across Cardinia Reservoir as you make your way down the zigzagging walkway to discover the lower garden - a tranquil garden that really does have it all. You’ll be found gazing at the vibrant colour infusion of blooming flowers and moss, definitely one of those ‘ahhh’ moments.

Alfred Nicholas Gardens in Sherbrooke For a calming walk, the tranquil Alfred Nicholas Gardens let visitors stroll down intertwining pathways under the canopy of towering Mountain Ash trees. Visitors can wander down the lake and enjoy a romantic picnic by the quaint boathouse. Each garden offers endless pathways for visitors to lost themselves for a day.

George Tindale Gardens in Sherbrooke Walking distance from Alfred Nicholas Gardens, stroll over to George Tindale Memorial Gardens and discover the early settler, European-inspired garden. The garden features an enviable collection of rare and exotic plants and flowers. Escape the heat of the city and immerse yourself in the cool mountain air, relax as nature unfolds.

Touristnews

DANDENONG RANGES

TRACK CLOSURES STILL IN PLACE PARKS Victoria is hoping to reopen the Kokoda Track Memorial Trail, known as the 1000 Steps, in late 2022.

The popular 1.4km bushwalking trail in Ferntree Gully was severely damaged during the 2021 June storm event and has been closed since. The Victorian State Government has invested $6.6 million for recovery works in storm-affected parks and reserves.

District manager Victoria Purdue said the trail received further damage after another storm event in October, following the June 2021 weather event.

“Many large trees and branches fell across the track, dislodging many of the concrete steps and damaging vast sections of safety handrailing and posts,” she said.

To successfully reopen the trail, Parks Victoria will need to remove trees, repair damaged steps and replace handrails.

Parks Victoria said in an online statement they have conducted a comprehensive assessment of the track and have put in place a program to restore visitor access as soon as it is safe to do so.

“The scale of the damage combined with the steep narrow terrain leading up the mountain has made access and the recovery task incredibly challenging. Despite these trying conditions, Park Rangers have made solid progress, clearing debris, branches and timber away from the track,” Parks Victoria said.

“To make the track safe for walkers and visitors, the recovery task now requires clearing the track of remaining hazardous trees and branches, repairing the steps and replacing sections of the damaged hand railing.”

Fortunately, Parks Victoria’s recovery work has enabled all other walking tracks in the area to be opened, and as an alternative experience to the 1000 Steps, the nearby Lyrebird Track is

Quality Onsite Repairs & Restoration.

New jewellery designed and made.

Diamond and gemstone specialists.

Engagement Rings

Visitors are urged to investigate track closures before visiting the Dandenong Ranges National Parks and conservation reserves.

available as a two-way walking trail up the mountain. The area’s visitor site is also open including the car park and onsite cafe, as well as the picnic area at the top of the walk at One Tree Hill.

Several key bridges and walking tracks in Dandenong Ranges National Park and conservation reserves also remain damaged and are closed to visitors after the 2021 June storm event.

Currently, Sassafras Creek walking trail is temporarily closed as it awaits repairs to bridges and boardwalks.

Bridge 9 at Lyrebird Falls, bridge 17 at Baynes Park Road and a bridge on Wattle Track in Sherbrooke Forest are all damaged as well.

The Wattle Track and Olinda Falls and Picnic Grounds both remain closed due to storm damage Information regarding parks opening and closures can be found at www.parks.vic.gov.au/news/2022/02/25/01/33/moreparks-reopen-as-storm-response-continues

Enchanted PINES

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.

Enchanted PINES

102 Main Road Monbulk

9756 7652 www.monbulkjewellers.com Touristnews

12541879-AV15-22

Australian Argyle Pink Diamonds

5 Main Street Upwey | 8203 8789 www.enchantedpines.com.au

Come visit us and be enchanted!

Open Mon - Fri 10.30am - 5pm Sat 9am - 2pm | Sun Closed

Gifts vouche r are also s availab le

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Offers a beautiful selection of home decor, ceramics, clothing and gift wares. We also have Takeaway tea and coffee, all available in biodegradable cups.

AUTUMN 2022 13

GARDENS

So many varieties of pumpkins on display.

Alowyn Gardens can be enjoyed by the whole family.

The visually stunning Parterre Gardens.

ALOWYN GARDENS IN AUTUMN AUTUMN is a wonderful time at Alowyn Gardens, as the weather is predominantly fine and warm with amazing colours in the trees and Autumn flowering plants providing colour, such as dahlias, amaranth, roses, catmint, salvias, sedums and other perennials.

We extended the gardens during our various Covid lockdowns and have created a number of new areas around the gardens.

The Photinia robusta labyrinth is now up and running, with kids really enjoying the challenge of getting through it and out the other side.

We have harvested our first crop of lavender from the field in the French Garden and it is now growing well and the plants are filling out.

The new Zen garden features a pond, maple plantings, miniature pine trees and black and green mondo grass. The gravel area highlights the granite rocks placed within and an Escallonia hedge surrounds the whole garden.

The pumpkin harvest this year is wonderful and can be seen in the Display Shed to entrance our visitors.

Many of the unusual varieties were sourced from Europe by one of our staff. The multi-coloured glass gem corn crop has been interwoven among the pumpkins.

The big vegetable gardens have been topped up with compost and horse manure and are being sown with winter brassicas, sweet peas, onions and garlic for a spring harvest.

The nursery has been expanded to include the Succulent Room, an Indoor Plant Room and lots and lots of beautiful pots, large and small.

The cafe now offers hot food, Danish pastries, hot cross buns over Easter and a range of cakes and sandwiches, plus our delicious coffee.

All our visitors are welcome to bring a picnic and enjoy it in the French garden, using the green lawns to lay out a rug, or the table and chairs and bench seats under the trees.

14 AUTUMN 2022

Visitors enjoying pumpkins of all shapes and sizes.

The pumpkin harvest is popular at Alowyn Gardens during Autumn.

Touristnews

Visit our exciting Autumn Pumpkin display

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 NOW OPEN.

Open 10am-5pm Seven days a week.

Closed Christmas and boxing day.

Check website for special events 1210 Melba Hwy, Yarra Glen (03) 9730 2400 www.alowyngardens.com.au admin@alowyngardens.com.au Touristnews

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AUTUMN 2022 15

DIRECTORY

DIRECTORY

1. YORK ON LILYDALE RESORT

7. RUSTIC CAFE

Cnr York & Swansea Road, Mt Evelyn Tel: 9736 4000

1652 Burwood Highway, Belgrave Tel: 0413 789 389

Monbulk Jewellers 2

2. EDIBLE FOREST 2164 Melba Highway, Dixons Creek Tel: 5965 2397

8. MONBULK JEWELLERS 102 Main Road, Monbulk Tel: 9756 7652

6

10

3 4 3. HEALESVILLE GRAND HOTEL

9. GRANTS ON SHERBROOKE

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

70 Monbulk Road, Kallista Tel: 9755 2888

4. BEECHWORTH BAKERY 316 Maroondah Highway, Healesville Tel: 1300 233 784 7am - 5pm Mon - Sun

10. BADGER CREEK BLUEBERRY WINERY WARRANDYTE ROAD

11 Garnook Grove, Healesville Tel: 5962 1601

1

12

5. MONBULK BOWLING CLUB

11. ENCHANTED PINES

5

11 Moores Road, Monbulk Tel: 9756 6183

9

5 Main Street, Upwey Tel: 8719 3903

8

7 11

S

MAP PROVIDED COURTESY OF

REGIONAL TOURISM WEBSITES • VISITDANDENONGRANGES.COM.AU

6. ALOWYN GARDENS

• VISITYARRAVALLEY.COM.AU

CHOCOLATE FACTORY

12. ONLY MINE CHOCOLATES

• VISITWARBURTON.COM.AU

1210 Melba Highway, Yarra Glen Tel: 9730 2400 16 AUTUMN 2022

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

Touristnews

Touristnews

Shop 1/540 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road, Olinda Tel: 9751 1862 AUTUMN 2022 17

YARRA VALLEY

BAKERY BITES AND DELIGHTS IF you ever wanted to visit a bakery that is a dream to experience, then Beechworth Bakery is the place for you.

Let’s face it, nothing says welcome quite like the smell of freshly baked goods mingling with the aroma of great coffee.

Throw in warm smiles that greet you from behind the counter, a relaxed atmosphere and the promise of an endless cup of tea, and you have country hospitality at its best.

Nestled in next to the creek yet right in the heart of town, Beechworth Bakery Healesville offers all that’s enjoyable, including plenty of indoor and outdoor seating options (of course, dogs are welcome in all outdoor areas).

Experience welcoming service with heart & smiles, and enjoy nostalgic favourites plus lots of new delicious winners.

With plenty of parking, the custom-built design provides an attractive backdrop for a delightful visit to remember.

Once there, just follow your nose and face the inevitable challenge of having to choose from such a mouth-watering display of cakes, slices, pastries, pies and more.

Baked fresh using the finest ingredients and traditional recipes, Beechworth Bakery’s huge range of hand-made products proudly retain their old world charm.

Like all Beechworth Bakeries, the Healesville bakery offers the perfect time-out where you can sit and enjoy great coffee together with something scrumptious, made for you fresh with as many locally sourced ingredients as possible.

One of the signature products for which the bakery is the original creator is the Ned Kelly pie, a hearty meat pie topped with bacon, cheese and a whole egg.

Another hero product for which people come from far and wide is, of course, the Beesting, a perennial favourite.

If you only stop off at one place in Healesville, make it the Beechworth Bakery.

It is known for its legendary hospitality and its unblemished reputation for making the finest pastries, pies and cakes.

Beestings are the perfect treat to enjoy from Beechworth Bakery.

It’s a one stop shop for breakfast, lunch, an early dinner or anything in between.

So whilst touring the scenic Yarra Valley, take a tour to this bakery and enjoy a hearty meal or scrumptious snack.

Experience the difference.

Fleetwood Chauffeured Limousines C Fleetwood Limousines are based in the beautiful ‘Yarra Valley’ We offer you a unique chauffeured experience which can be tailored to suit your requirements.

From winery tours, hens parties, Yarra Valley sightseeing, bucks brewery tours or simply a girls day out to your Wedding or Anniversary celebrations.

We can cater for groups up to 14 and we offer a very competitive per person rate for Weddings in the Yarra Valley... Yarra Valley winery tours, Weddings, Special Occasions.

We will make it a day to remember.

Call Tony 0412 418 133 fleetwoodlimos4@gmail.com • www.fleetwoodlimos.com.au 12544535-AV15-22

18 AUTUMN 2022

Stop by for a heart warming coffee on a cold Autumn day.

Touristnews

YARRA VALLEY

WINE AND DINE IN THE VALLEY

BY RENEE WOOD

WHEN the air starts to cool and the crisp frosts move in, its the perfect time to sit down and enjoy a nice extended lunch or dinner by the fire at one of the Yarra Valley’s many hospitality venue.

The region is filled with small towns bursting with flavours and excitement, with Autumn bringing a change to the season and menu.

Here are some tried and true town main strips that have plenty to offer when looking for a place to dine this season.

1. Healesville You will easily find the main street of Healesville as Maroondah Highway leads you straight to the heart of town, with plenty of local cafes and restaurants open to visitors.

Cafes offer a variety of choice for day dining, including Willow and Jackson and Cherry Tree are popular spots to wind down with a coffee. Local hotels such as the Grand Hotel and Healesville Hotel will also tick the boxes for a traditional pub feed. Further down town, winery cellar doors and breweries are open for lunch through to dinner dining including Innocent Bystanders and Matilda Bay Brewery.

2. Yarra Glen Yarra Glen is home to cafes and restaurants, while wineries are within driving distance including Zonzo Estate and Greenstone Vineyards.

Yarra Valley Grand Hotel on Bell Street has a great menu while also providing a bistro environment for families and ‘The Snug’ section is perfect for an adult dining experience. Heartswood is also on Bell Street, where you can soak up the architecture of the old Colonial Bank building.

The Yarra Valley is filled with plenty of hospitality venues to explore.

Picture: Eaters Collective

3. Warburton After exploring Warburton’s local natural landscapes, there are many hospitality venues to sit down and relax at.

Alpine Hotel has recently undergone a renovation and there is a great menu to select from. Riverview Cafe and Wine Bar is another to try, with an excellent outdoor dining area out the back.

4. Seville Seville offers a unique dining experience with a hidden historic tram along the Lilydale Warburton Trail at the Carriage Cafe Seville.

The main street along the Warburton Highway also has other cafe offerings, with burgers, smoothies and more on offer at Branded Burgers and Bar.

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!

For details on our TOUR TASTE - EDUCATE & GROUP BOOKINGS Please visit our website or email us directly - We look forward to seeing you in our Nursery & Harvest Shop Edible Forest • Yarra Valley Estate 2164 Melba Hwy Dixons Creek VIC 3775 (03) 5965 2395 • info@edibleforest.co • www.edibleforest.com

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Touristnews

AUTUMN 2022 19

YARRA VALLEY

Some snaps from Garry Sissons.

Pictures: Garry Sissons

FINDING FEATHERED FRIENDS

BY CALLUM LUDWIG THE lush forests in the Yarra Valley provides great homes for our feathered friends and great opportunities for budding birdwatchers.

The Yarra Ranges area is home to over 288 different bird species and Birdwatching enthusiast and photographer Garry Sissons shared some of his favourite places to scour the trees.

“Anywhere near a stream or river is good, I go up the mountains like Mt Donna Buang and Lake Mountain, or along rivers like the Acheron River because birds come down to the water,” he said.

Mr Sissons recommended anyone embarking on a birdwatching adventure in the Yarra Ranges to clue themselves up on birds in the area by googling or downloading apps, with options including EBird or Merlin Bird ID. Autumn is the greatest time of year to hear the majestic lyrebirds call, mimicking the noises of their surroundings, and they can be often seen when headed towards Lake Mountain from the Upper Yarra areas. It’s also a great time to spot Crimson Rosellas and a number of honeyeater species.

Mr Sissons had an exciting find in Healesville recently.

“I was going down Don Rd along the Watts River, and saw a kookaburra being chased by something, and I decided to go for a walk,” he said.

“I found a Collared Sparrowhawk, but unfortunately I didn’t manage to get a good photo of it.”

The Yarra Valley Birdlife group has bi-monthly outings, on the second Saturday and fourh Wednesday of each month, with their autumn trips including to Tirhautan Park in Rowville and the Warburton Trail between Seville and Killara, while the Birdlife Melbourne group will be visiting the Yarra and Dandenong Ranges to Yellingbo and Lysterfield Lake.

Mr Sissons said birdwatching is a great activity for young and old, and even can be a bonding opportunity.

“For kids all they need is a cheap pair of binoculars and a birdwatching book, they can spend hours walking and not get bored because they are learning and involved with wildlife, he said.

“A lot of retired people buy a camera and go out walking and 20 AUTUMN 2022

enjoying themselves, and for an old bloke and his grandson it can lead to other fun times with the kid,” Mr Sisson’s tips for birdwatching were to use a long lens on cameras to capture birds from further away so they are not disturbed and to target the species you want to find, researching where you are going and what can be found there in the time of year.

Touristnews

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 Touristnews

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AUTUMN 2022 21

YARRA VALLEY

TREES A SIGHT TO BE SEEN

BY RENEE WOOD

THE Eucalyptus regnans, the Mountain Ash, has been dubbed the Eucalypt of the Year for 2022 following a national poll by Eucalypt Australia.

The competition has been running for five years and the votes quadrupled from last year, with the most going towards the Mountain Ash which is one of the principal forest trees in the Yarra Ranges area.

Eucalypt Australia Linda Baird said it’s unique in Australia and internationally.

“It’s the tallest flowering tree or plant of any description in the world, we actually hold that, that is our native tree,” Ms Baird said.

One of the tallest Eucalyptus regnans in the Black Spur stands at 86 metres tall and the tallest known is in Tasmania at 100.5 metres.

“The interesting thing is that the tallest isn’t necessarily the oldest – they gain girth.”

“So they grow up really tall and straight, and then they just get wider and wider and wider.”

The tree is also vital to local biodiversity, home to threatened species through hollows including the Leadbeater’s Possum and Greater Glider.

They also face growing issues when fire events sweep through their habitat.

“They are obligate seeders – when the regnans get fire on fire on fire it’s really difficult for them because their seeds will only be viable once they become mature and they take around 20 years to become mature.

“If you’re getting back to back fire events, that gets really really difficult.”

The poll aims to engage with the public to promote the diversity of Eucalypts, with 988 species, and to grow a greater understanding of what’s in your urban environment.

A hotly contested second place went to the Red Flowering

The Ada Tree near Powelltown is a popular Mountain Ash. Picture: On file

Gum, Corymbia ficifolia and the Sydney Red Gum, Angophora costata, came in third.

Ms Baird said the poll delivered a healthy competition on social media as those in the West rallied to back the Red Flowering Gum, with a sense of pride growing among voters about what’s in their backyard.

For those wishing to see a Mountain Ash, they can be spotted in many areas across the Yarra Ranges including in the Upper Yarra and the Dandenong Ranges.

The Ada Tree is also a popular Victorian mountain ash in Powelltown, which stands at around 76 metres tall and is estimated to be over 300 years old.

Walking tracks to see the giant Eucalyptus can be accessed by the Ada Tree Picnic Area and car park on Ada River Road, Powelltown.

WANDER THROUGH THE REDWOODS THE perfect towering rows in Warburton’s Californian Redwood forest are stunning in autumn, as the fairytale-like woods provide a great opportunity for an afternoon in nature.

The trees themselves are truly spectacular, with around 1450 California Redwoods in the Yarra Ranges National Park which are able to reach up to 55 metres tall and at full maturity – around 400-years-old – they can reach 115m. The trees can live for over 2000 years and they are among the oldest living organisms on earth.

The location is serene and peaceful with the large trees and their canopy muffle the sounds of the outside world, providing

a perfect spot for yoga, meditation or a picnic.

Warburton artist David Digapony also initiated a series of woven art projects from fallen limbs of the trees within the forest, which are now taking the form of huge circular creations that anyone can add to.

The walk through the forest is estimated to be 1.16km and are considered to be at an ‘easy’ walking level.

Dogs are not permitted, other than assistance dogs with a permit, and camping and bicycles are also prohibited.

Visitors can access the forest via Cement Creek Road, East Warburton.

The woven art can be found strewn among the forest.

The California Redwood trees tower above.

22 AUTUMN 2022

Touristnews

YARRA VALLEY

KEY SPOTS FOR MOUNTAIN BIKES

BY CALLUM LUDWIG THE picturesque Yarra Valley provides some great scenery for mountain bike riding, even before the arrival of the proposed Warburton Mountain bike destination.

Traversing through the temperate and majestic forests of the Upper Yarra and Dandenong Ranges lands their tracks as the pick of the bunch, while junior riders can get a feel for the sport in Lilydale.

Yarra Ranges Mountain Bikers President Andrew Howieson shared some of his favourite tracks with Tourist News.

“Hey Hey My My in Wesburn is the first trail to be delivered to the Warburton region ahead of the proposed Warburton Mountain Bike destination, recently rebuilt by Yarra Ranges Council and offers a fantastic flow experience with the potential for high speeds and optional technical features, like Log drop offs and jumps,” he said.

“All obstacles can be ridden around, and the gradient is not too steep. If you can confidently ride a bike including gears and brakes, you’ll have a great time on this trail.”

Also in the Upper Yarra, the O’Shannassy Aqueduct Trail, while not a dedicated mountain bike trail, provides a perfect opportunity for quiet 35-40km ride through the beautiful environment, on mountain bikes as well as hybrid or gravel bikes with an adequate tire tread.

Mr Howieson recommends starting from the top of Dee Rd in Millgrove or Yuonga Rd in Warburton, and packing food and water as the ride out to the weir is physically demanding.

Elsewhere, the Dandenong Ranges has some of the must-visit tracks, for beginners and experienced riders alike.

Mr Howieson recommends the MVO (fireroad) trail network for a great introduction for off road cycling without needing to

There are some fantastic opportunities for mountain biking in the Yarra Ranges.

go ‘mountain biking’.

“The fireroads link a number of great locations, and for those looking for a workout I’m particularly fond of riding across from Silvan Reservoir up to Olinda for a coffee and back. Don’t be put off by the wet weather, this ride is fantastic on a gloomy day,” he said.

For those seeking a more authentic trail experience, Mr Howieson said the Dandenong Ranges has a small mountain bike network available, with more on the way soon.

“Particular trails to tackle for an intermediate rider would be “Downhill track” or “Temple of Zoom”. Temple of Zoom in particular offers a great technical downhill experience that is suitable for intermediate riders, with no forced risks involved.

This trail takes between 3 to 8 minutes to complete and offers a descending experience through some spectacular native bush.

The Bakers Dozen loop, an undulating 1.6km trail is another notable mention worth checking out.”

For younger riders or those looking to get a simple taste for the sport, the Lilydale Lake skills loop is ideal to practice before heading out onto the trails.

PARK HISTORIC SUNDIAL RESTORED VISITORS in the region should stop by the Maroondah Reservoir Park to take a look at the restoration works on the sundial that were completed by volunteers.

Friends of Maroondah Reservoir Park group, with the support of Parks Victoria, have undertaken landscaping and painting works to restore the sundial, as well as the replacement and repainting of the surrounding wooden posts, in order to rejuvenate this important feature.

April Meredith of Friends Of Maroondah Reservoir Park group said she’s grateful for the volunteers and their hard work.

“Projects like the restoration of the sundial would not be possible without the Volunteers who give up their time as well as support from other local groups and businesses, including Parks Victoria staff,” she said.

Badger Creek and District Men’s shed generously replicated posts to match the originals, including the supply of the timber, and Bunnings Croydon also donated cement and paint to complete the works.

“I can’t thank our volunteers, the Men’s Shed or Bunnings enough for their generous support,” Ms Meredith said.

Maroondah Reservoir, completed in 1927, was the first reservoir constructed by Melbourne Metropolitan Board of Works and the first built under a closed catchment policy which prohibited public access to the catchment area.

Part of the agreement that surrounded the close catchment policy was the provision of an adjacent parkland for the community to enjoy.

This parkland included an extensive planting exotic trees, Touristnews

The sundial has been brought back to its former glory after volunteers worked hard to restore it.

formal gardens and ornamental features.

The Sundial at Maroondah Reservoir Park has been a draw card attraction of the park since the 1950’s and was positioned to be viewed from the top of the dam wall.

The sundial features Roman Numerals and the historically significant MMBW indicating the involvement of Melbourne Metropolitan Board of Works in the original establishment and management of the parks land.

“I see the park as a real asset to the community within the Yarra Valley, it brings tourists and encourages people outdoors to the wonderful surrounds of the Healesville area. As a community member I enjoy seeing the park at its best and maintaining some of the amazing features installed a century ago.”

AUTUMN 2022 23

WINERIES

EXPLORE SQUITCHY LANE IT’S autumn in the Yarra Valley, a picturesque time of year and a perfect time to visit and taste at the Valley’s finest wineries - if you are planning a trip to some of the more well-known wineries, be sure to also check out the smaller, family-owned independent cellar doors too.

One such vineyard, Squitchy Lane Wines (owned by Mike Fitzpatrick of Carlton Football Club fame), is off the well-worn path in the heart of Gruyere and as the 2022 vintage ends in the vineyard, the hard work is just getting underway for the winemakers.

Squitchy’s sales and marketing manager Michael Smith tells us that “although the crops were smaller than normal due to poor weather conditions in spring, the quality of the fruit is exceptional.”

“Our whites are in oak already and our red ferments are ticking along. The pinot is looking particularly fine so far.”

What happens next in the vineyard?

Well, for vineyard manager Steve Sadlier, work has already begun on a staged replanting program.

Industry trends, resilient rootstocks and shifting local conditions drive the program - so far, they’ve removed a small block of Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc which has allowed new plantings of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir.

Malbec, a new varietal for this winery will be planted later in the year.

Visiting Squitchy is a real treat. Its intimate cellar door sits atop a hill with views over their vineyards, a quiet spot to enjoy a guided tasting and cheeseboard, featuring locally made Stone & Crow Cheese.

Get off the beaten track and visit Squitchy Lane Vineyard.

Looking to the future, Mr Smith mentioned there are plans to develop a private event space and premium accommodation offering.

Squitchy Lane Wines is open Friday to Sunday 11am -5pm and is located at 9 Medhurst Road, Gruyere, 5964 9114, squitchylane. com.au

9 MEDHURST ROAD, GRUYERE squitchylane.com.au Tastings | Friday - Sunday | 11am - 5pm

12544347-AV15-22

24 AUTUMN 2022

Touristnews

WINERIES

DELICATE DROPS FROM VINTAGE 22

BY RENEE WOOD AUTUMN is a pivotal time for grape growers and wine producers as their vintage continues into the season.

Grape harvesting started as early as February for some varieties including the Pinot and Chardonnay - while picking for other varieties continued through to March.

Lucy Etheridge from Yarrawalla Vineyards said the crops were down this year due to the weather conditions experienced over the past 12 months.

“We had adverse weather events, while a number of our varieties were flowering, which means our yields get dropped when we don’t have fruit set as a result of that poor flowering,” Ms Etheridge said.

On average Yarrawalla producers up to 400 ton of fruit a year from it’s 100 acre Gruyere vineyard for contracts servicing Yarra Valley wineries.

Ms Etheridge said each year produces its own complexities.

“It’s a great vintage, it’s looking good… It’s small quantities, but excellent quality again, which is great and I think that’s going to be important for the Valley after a tricky couple of Metro lockdown years,” she said.

Adrian Santolin from Santolin Wines expects varieties such as Shiraz and Cabernet will see normal yields for the year.

“We’ll be down in volume this year, we’ll probably be around 30 per cent down in terms of intake. 2021 was a pretty good yielding year, so the universe has got its way of evening things out.”

The majority of the fruit being used will come from Yarra Glen, Dixons Creek, Gladysdale and Yarra Junction.

Several of the Santolin labels are named after where the fruit has been grown to express its unique growing characteristics.

“You can get the same wine variety, make it the same way from a couple of different vineyards and each batch of wine will taste differently,” he said.

Mr Santolin said this season has had cool nights, which retained natural acidity in the grapes, and a mild summer without scorching days will create ‘delicate and elegant’ wines.

“We’ve had some nice ripening weather now, so they are still going to get ripe enough and will still have the lovely fruit flavours, and wines that should have a little bit of weight and texture about them.

“If it’s a warm year or cool year the wines taste different.

Essentially, we’re trying to make wine but tell the story of the year that they experienced, so it’s like we take you on a little journey in the glass.”

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

Adrian Santolin busy working in the winery for Santolin Wines.

Picture: Gary Sissons

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AUTUMN 2022 25

ACCOMMODATION

HEALESVILLE MOST WELCOMING

BY RENEE WOOD HEALESVILLE has been named the sixth most welcoming town in Australia in the 2022 Traveller Review Awards.

The town achieved the result through a calculation of awards and overall high customer reviews on Booking.com, making it evident that visitors enjoy the area and its accommodation providers.

Yarra Gables accommodation owner Ralph Henderson welcomed the accolade and said it’s good news for the local sector.

“Maybe it’s a reflection of where we’ve been the last couple of years and that everyone’s keen to have people back. It’s a big part of our life and our community,” Mr Henderson said.

It’s hoped the recognition for the town will create more opportunities for new visitors while the tourism sector is still rebuilding after suffering major losses over the past two years.

“People want to go somewhere where they’re welcome. There are places where not everyone welcomes visitors, but I think Healesville has come a long way with visitors and we are pretty keen to see everyone back,” Mr Henderson said.

Bundjil Studio accommodation owner Lianne Slinger believes Healesville is a value asset in the state’s visitor economy by being in a country setting while having close proximity to the city.

“We have over 80 wineries now, we have markets on weekends, we have great little shops and little boutiques and delicatessens and cheese makers - so we have all these different things that we can offer guests,” Ms Slinger said.

Lianne and Paul Slinger, owners of Bundjil Studio, have welcomed Healesville’s new status.

Picture: Stewart Chambers

Creating a welcoming home-like environment for guests is also an important part of lifting the local experience.

“People can sit there and they wouldn’t know they’re in an hour out off the city. They’re in the bush, they can have a fire - it’s something lovely to offer them. We try and give them quality which is what we pride ourselves on,” Ms Slinger said.

Although friendliness is the best ingredient to securing the a ‘most welcoming’ title - which is seen as the key to generating return visitors back to the town.

“My belief is the friendliness, the way you greet people, is what brings people back. They just keep coming back to the valley.”

Healesville was one of three Victorian towns that made it on the list, while Maleny in Queensland claimed the top spot.

STAYING IN THE YARRA RANGES

BY TYLER WRIGHT THERE are multiple ways you can stay the night in the Yarra Ranges, from a traditional cottage to luxury retreats.

Whether you are travelling with family, a partner or on a solo venture, accommodation in the region will not disappoint.

With rich culture, history and hospitality, wherever you choose to stay will reflect your desire and fit the experience you wish to have.

HERE ARE SOME ACCOMMODATION IDEAS: TRADITIONAL BED AND BREAKFAST Bed & Breakfasts can be a more personal experience with the host looking after you while you stay. Afully cooked breakfast may be on offer too, but it is important to check the services each business offers. Bed & Breakfast owners may list their space online or other traveling websites like bookings.com.

HISTORIC HOTELS AND MOTELS Old world charm is something easy to come by at the area’s hotels, with some even classified with the National Trust.

Hotels in the Yarra Ranges also offer great pub food, and are supportive of local sporting and school groups. Discover the local history by investigating hotels and motels in the region.

CAMPING AND CARAVAN PARKS Camping can often be an accessible way to travel, with power, showers and toilets available at certain grounds. You can bring your caravan and park yourself in the idyllic landscape, while there’s plenty of space to set up your tent and enjoy the camp life.

Campgrounds include Upper Yarra Resevoir Park, Gilwell Park and Feiglin Campground among others.

AIRBNB From entire units to private lodges, the entire family can easily book an Airbnb through the company’s website, with hosts 26 AUTUMN 2022

posting listings for visitors to instantly book.

You can live in a tram for a week or lounge in the treetops, there are plenty of choices for a fun retreat when travelling in a small group. Enjoy the comforts you have at home, by staying on a local property.

If you have certain requirements, such as a ‘dedicated workspace’ or ‘free parking,’ you can select these options prior to booking.

TINY HOMES If you want the perks of being immersed in nature while also being comfortable and having all your needs catered too, a ‘tiny home’ stay may be down your alley.

Linen, bluetooth speakers, blankets for cold nights could be on the cards if you choose this option for your stay at one of these interesting bite size homes.

Also using less resources to run, tiny houses can minimise your environmental impact.

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• 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

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ARTS

LOVE AND DESPAIR ON STAGE

BY MIKAYLA VAN LOON SEEING a show at The Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre is like stepping back in time, entering the grand foyer, enjoying a sherry and witnessing the beauty of the theatre itself.

Travel back in time to the 1950s this May and June as the company brings a post-war drama of love, life and loss to the stage in Terence Rattigan’s ‘The Deep Blue Sea’.

Witness the love triangle of Hester Collyer, Freddie Page and judge William Collyer as despair and anguish overcomes the young lady as she attempts to find purpose in life.

Director Alan Burrows said while it is quite a serious play, those who have studied Terence Rattigan’s work regard it as something of foresight into the female escape from dependency.

“Even though it was written in the 1950s it has an element of a woman making decisions about her own life and it’s almost a preemptive feministic approach to relationships,” he said.

“In the end, she’s prepared to step beyond what would be a very comfortable lifestyle with the judge and realising that the younger man can’t really give her what she wants either and she comes to the conclusion that she can make her own way in life and be independent of either relationship.”

As a director Mr Burrows said he has been drawing out certain elements in scenes, emphasising the relationships between men and women, as well as women asserting themselves equally.

“The important thing is to hit those issues but also to direct it in a way that heightens the tension as to what is actually happening and therefore, the interactions between both men and Hester is to actually create tension when they interact,” Mr Burrows said.

“So the audience are, in a sense, kept on the edge of their seats as to whether she is going to continue down the path of self

Lilydale Theatre regular Ben Freeland will take on the role of Freddie Page in The Deep Blue Sea production.

Picture: Mikayla van Loon

destruction or is she not and hopefully, we build the tension in a way that still right to the very end, they’re not quite sure which way she’s going to jump.”

Eight actors have been cast for the play, with Angela Glennie playing Hester, Phil Lambert playing her husband and Ben Freeland playing her forbidden lover.

“It is a serious story and what will captivate audiences will be the power of the performances.”

The season will run from Thursday 19 May to Saturday 4 June.

To book visit www.lilydaleatc.com/ or call 9735 1777.

EXPLORE THE REGIONAL MUSEUM

BY MIKAYLA VAN LOON DURING those colder autumn days taking respite in the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum is a perfect way to learn about the region and experience something new.

For the female gamer, the ACMI touring exhibition Code Breakers: Women in Games may take your fancy as an exhibition trying to break down barriers and shatter stereotypes in the gaming industry.

Visitors can play an array of video games made by women directors, programmers, developers, digital artists, writers, producers and designers within the interactive and immersive displays highlighting the gaming world.

It’s hoped visitors to the Yarra Ranges exhibit will be inspired to see where their passions and career can lead them. The exhibition closes Sunday 15 May. Bringing together the history of the Yarra Ranges through the lens of the Power and the People, explore the stories of how important pillars in the shire came to be.

Celebrating the 150th anniversary of local government in Lilydale and the rest of the shire, 18 history groups tell the stories of how the community and the local power worked collaboratively to achieve a wonderful outcome for their town.

Museum program director Megan Sheehy said stories from the Save the Dandenongs League tell of the environment protection efforts, while another story focuses on the Oonah Belonging Place in Healesville.

“The interesting part of it is that there’s all these amazing 28 AUTUMN 2022

community facilities and different stories from history that are from all across the region,” she said.

“There are 55 townships across the region and there’s only 18 stories, so it doesn’t cover every specific township but it does give you a really good feel for that breadth of the identity of different parts of the region.”

Power and the People can be found in the Chambers Gallery, as a nod to the first council chambers in the Shire of Lilydale, from Saturday 21 May to Sunday 31 July.

In the Box Gallery, witness the Newcastle Museum touring exhibition 1X4, a display of objects that invites viewers to project their own interpretation onto the item, whether social, economic or cultural.

“So each object in the exhibition tells four distinct stories and you can listen to or read each of the stories or just look at the objects,” Ms Sheehy said.

“But the point of it is that it’s really giving people an insight into how important historical collections are, but also how important they can be in telling very, very different stories.”

1X4 asks the audience to step into the role of the curator and question their own objectivity.

Yarra Ranges Regional Museum will provide opportunities to discuss these interpretations in floor talks and fascinating conversations throughout the exhibition running Thursday 26 May to Sunday 11 September.

To contact the Museum call 03 9294 6511 or email boxoffice@ yarraranges.vic.gov.au. Entry is free.

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MARKETS

Come and stop by the markets at the Yarra Glen Racecourse this Autumn.

MEET ARTISTS, CREATORS, MAKERS AS autumn settles in over the Yarra Valley, the quaint village of Yarra Glen takes on an almost mystical quality, and our Yarra Glen Racecourse Market is a sight to behold.

Held on the first Sunday of the month from 9am-2pm during the autumn months, you can come and meet the artists, creators, designers and craftspeople behind the selection of premium quality goods on display. Picture foggy mornings, rolling hills, hot drinks and friendly people ready to wish you a good day.

A good day is something we can guarantee from the moment you arrive at Yarra Glen where you can then take a few hours to explore and wander the racecourse grounds to absorb the sights, sounds and smells of a thriving country craft and food market.

Take the time to soak up the atmosphere and breathe in that

H

EALESVILLE COMMUNITY MARKET INC.

Healesville River Street Markets 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

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clean, fresh air away from the busyness of suburban life.

Hundreds of stallholders will line the open paths of this market, featuring a selection of unique jewellery, art, clothing, toys, outdoor furniture, gourmet food and much, much more.

It’s the perfect place to pick up something special for Mother’s Day, or some hand-knitted essentials to prepare for the cooler months, or just a space to meet up with friends.

Live music will keep you entertained as you browse, and our street food sellers will make sure you’re well fed.

Sunday 1 May, Sunday 5 June. 9am-2pm. Parking $5. Please no dogs.

(A small surcharge applies when paying for parking electronically)

YARRA GLEN RACECOURSE MARKET

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9AM - 2PM NEXT MARKETS:

Şƶ:yëƶşŝşş Ţƶ1Ùµ ƶşŝşş Parking fees apply.

Please no dogs. office@craftmarkets.com.au www.craftmarkets.com.au

@craftmarketsaus

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AUTUMN 2022 29

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

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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

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TIME TO REFLECT

ANZAC WALK HONOURING DIGGERS

BY PARKER MCKENZIE VISITORS are invited to take the time to listen to the stories of the 32 diggers who lost their lives in First World War on Emerald RSL’s Anzac Walk Audio Trail.

The tour, devised in 2015 before the Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove visited Emerald to open Anzac Place, features eight stops with QR codes where people can listen to stories of life during in the township during the First World War and the sacrifice of the 32 Australian soldiers from Emerald who lost their lives.

Emerald RSL president Peter Maloney said the Audio Tour hasn’t been running for the last two years because of the pandemic.

“When the governor-general came to Emerald to open it, that’s when we set up the walk which goes down the main street of Emerald down to Anzac Place,” he said.

“There are 10 stations and they all have audio about four of the men who died during the First World War.” Mr Maloney said once you scan the QR code on each station, you can listen to the audio tour on your phone.

“It starts off at station one with a preliminary about life in

Emerald at the time,” he said.

“As it progresses through to stage two at Anzac Place, you can hear the story of each of the groups of four men who died in the First World War, “The experience is quite unique here in Australia, there isn’t many like it.”

Amazingly, no soldier from Emerald lost their life during the Second World War. Mr Maloney said the audio trail was honouring the memories of the soldiers who lost their lives, but also previous efforts to commemorate veterans from Emerald.

“Heroes Avenue in Emerald was initially established in 1921, near the primary school. It had a whole heap of Blackwood trees which were planted and had plaques around them,” he said.

“In the 1950s the council decided to widen Heroes Avenue so all the plaques were taken off the trees and the RSL salvaged them, we have the plaques in our club room, “We couldn’t replace Heroes Avenue because of how busy the roads are now, but we decided to replace it with a new Anzac Walk.”

A GARDEN FOR REFLECTION

BY MIKAYLA VAN LOON FINDING a tranquil place to sit and relax in Kilsyth has now been made possible with the Garden of Contemplation open at The Bridge House.

The idea first came from Mieke Alexander who wanted to create a space for everyone to enjoy some peace and quiet, while also recognising women and children who have escaped family violence.

“This is about those people, the people you never hear about. I drove through an avenue of honour and I had just met another person who’d been misused by their family and I thought no one recognises all the unheard people,” she said.

Ms Alexander said it does not matter if women who have left violent households don’t come to the garden but she said it is important for them to know they are not invisible.

“You don’t have to come here. You just know we know you are there. You’re not invisible. Having taught a lot of kids, that’s really what it’s about with me - you are not invisible.”

Groups of volunteers from the University of Melbourne worked on ripping out weeds, laying paths and building archways for three days, with Ms Alexander saying they removed about 10 cubic metres of green waste and one cubic metre of hard rubbish.

Plants and paint were supplied by local businesses, with all the timber donated by Treasuring our Trees, a charity in the Dandenong Ranges repurposing fallen trees from the June storms.

The design of the garden includes a kids’ space, a quiet sitting area and a mosaic garden to use and remember the previous garden design.

“We’ve taken away all the really harsh plants and we’re painting [the tire] in a gentle colour, so it doesn’t look so masculine and although this is not only for women, it will be soft plants and everything will be sustainable and beautiful,” Ms Alexander said.

For Ms Alexander, as a former primary school teacher, recognising the children and their trauma is important as well, that’s why the garden includes a dedicated area for them.

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Habitat for Humanity program manager Thomas Alexander, Mieke Alexander, Japara House’s community engagement officer Jackie Warren and Neighbourhood Houses Victoria CEO Nicole Battle all opened the garden on Tuesday 8 March.

Picture: Mikayla Van Loon

“As a teacher, I’ve seen lots of kids whose parents did not exactly treat them correctly and we don’t talk about kids enough,” she said.

“We hope this garden will be used by all. Some to remember where they’ve come from, some to rest and forget and some like me who like to be surprised sometimes and reflect how fortunate they are to have the life they’ve had.”

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