PAGE 2 - “SOUTH COAST TOURIST NEWS”, Autumn Edition, 2008
Time to explore Prom Country
Waratah view: a view to Wilsons Promontory from Waratah Bay on a perfect sunny day.
Koonwarra and continue through to Fish Creek or Foster; a one way trip of about 40 kilometres. A huge new bridge across the Tarwin near Meeniyan will be opening this year. Look through this feature for more ideas and plan your visit before you arrive; allow more than a week if you can! The Prom Country Visitor Information Centre is located on the South Gippsland Highway, Korumburra. Be sure to pop in and obtain any information you require.
travel. Whilst in the region visit the beautiful Waratah Bay which sprawls from Sandy Point to the Waratah township and through to Walkerville. The fit can walk the entire length of this beach or ride a bike when the tide is out. One accommodation option is the Waratah Bay Caravan Park which is always busy in the holidays. This season is a great time for a bike ride. Start at Leongatha or
Plenty happening: South Coast Tourist News coordinator Marg Klingenberg.
By South Coast Tourist News coordinator Marg Klingenberg
AUTUMN is here in Prom Country and it’s a great time to go out and explore our fantastic region. The milder weather coupled with a number of upcoming events in the district gives us plenty of reasons to take a drive. Being on the eve of Easter and the school holidays, this edition of the tourist news contains just a sample of what’s in store over the coming weeks and months. Art galleries, cafes and other eateries are sprinkled throughout the region. If you want to look around the shops why not try one of the quaint villages like Loch, Toora, Foster or Fish Creek or one of the more bustling centres like Leongatha, Wonthaggi, or Inverloch. Tarwin Lower and Venus Bay are great places to visit and have lovely facilities as well. Drop a line into the Tarwin River
or surf fish from Venus Bay. Melbourne visitors can plan their journey with town stops at regular intervals including Koo Wee Rup, Tooradin, Loch, Korumburra or Leongatha. If it’s a spot of fishing you want, the options are endless. Amongst great places to launch a boat are Port Albert, Port Welshpool, Inverloch, Cape Paterson and San Remo. Yarram and historic Port Albert always celebrate at Easter time with
the running of the annual Tarra Festival. The big parade happens on Easter Saturday in Yarram from 11am. A visit to Wilsons Promontory is a must for any visit to the area. You can base yourself with a camping site or a cabin and explore one of the many trails to Sealers Cove, the Lighthouse, Refuge Cove or Little Oberon Bay to name a few. During peak holiday times it’s advisable to book your site before
“SOUTH COAST TOURIST NEWS”, Autumn Edition, 2008 - PAGE 3
Library service is big business By Jane Ross
THE West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation is responsible for 12 static and two mobile libraries that service the wider South Gippsland area and Phillip Island. The corporation has a budget of $2.4 million and a collection holding 157,000 items, including books, DVDs and CDs. There are 52 staff, most of whom work part time. South Gippsland, Bass Coast and Baw Baw shires joined forces to form the corporation in 1995. They each provide an annual financial contribution, which is augmented by State Government funding. Corporation CEO John Murrell said that whereas once the state offered $2 for every $1 from local government, its financial support is now 22 per cent of the total income. “That amounts to more than $600,000 and we couldn’t operate without it,” he said. An added bonus is that the money is untied, meaning it can be spent however the corporation sees fit. Since 1998, considerable effort has been made to reduce the age of the collection held by the corporation. Replacement rates were at a dismal 42 years, but this has been pared down to 13.7 years. Mr Murrell said a great deal of effort has gone into ensuring that the percentage of the collection aged
Great pleasure: books are a joy for people of all ages. Ursula, of the Leongatha branch of the West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation, reads to five-year-old Tara. between nought to five years, has risen year by year. “We’re winning that battle,” he said. It’s not easy, because the corporation has to stretch new items over its 14 branches. These are at Korumburra, Leongatha, Inverloch, Foster, Mirboo North, Wonthaggi, Poowong, Drouin,
Cowes, Warragul, Neerim and Noojee, as well as the mobile vans in Baw Baw and Bass Coast. And the continuing influx of residents used to metropolitan library services, is a source of ongoing pressure. Mr Murrell said metropolitan libraries often have a younger and more relevant collection because of
the stronger rate base of municipalities funding them. There are generally fewer branches too. “We’re spread over 14 outlets so we are struggling to meet the challenge of getting more items on the shelves.” In his 10 years as CEO, he has discovered that the more trust you place in the people who borrow the
collection, the more that’s returned. He said there was a perception that unreturned items, particularly those borrowed by visitors, were an issue for the corporation, but this was not so. “We take the view that if a book is borrowed in Inverloch and returned in Kerang, it’s still in circulation,” said Mr Murrell. What about damage to borrowed items? “Mostly they’re looked after. Children’s books have a fair attrition rate.” But if they are damaged, it means children are using them and Mr Murrell is happy about that. “And if a book ends up in the bath, borrowers usually explain what has happened and replace it.” Long-held plans to develop a regional library hub in Wonthaggi have not progressed far. The current Wonthaggi branch is in an old post office building adjacent to the Bass Coast Shire offices. Moves by that shire to build a new library next to the town hall fell apart following community agitation about the impact on the town hall stage, not to mention the cost which was in the order of $4 million – and that was a number of years ago. Mr Murrell said it is a matter for the shire council, which is still working with a private developer to find a suitable site. Nevertheless, planning for a redeveloped library and community hub at Inverloch is well underway, with hopes that an application for $500,000 from the State Government’s Living Libraries Fund, will be successful.
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Gecko – small but stunning Gecko Studio Gallery’s Michael Lester and Kerry Spokes have created an artistic niche in the small
Above Wonderful world: the studio gallery offers something for everyone. Right Head space: expect the unexpected at the Gecko.
South Gippsland town of Fish Creek. The couple have owned and managed the Gecko Studio Gallery in Falls Rd
for the past year. During that time it has evolved into one of the region’s premier places for paintings, ceramics and framing.
Michael said that the Gecko Studio Gallery, along with the Celia Rosser Gallery and Stefani Hilltop Gallery, was helping to make Fish Creek an artistic hub for the region. He said Kerry had been enjoying Fish Creek’s artistic ambiance for many years, but he was a late arrival in South Gippsland. He said the couple had not planned to be running a studio gallery, but a series of events had conspired to see them set up the premises between the book shop and town hall. “I thought it was a spare time thing we could do,” Michael said. “Once we set it up, it just kind of turned into a business. “We realised we needed a retail outlet .... so we said yes to a shop in Fish Creek and spent months cleaning it.” Ceramics, art materials, and art cards are an addition to the constant exhibitions which have booked out the gallery space until October. Not all the exhibitors are local, but it seems every artist on display has a South Gippsland connection.
Artistic couple: Kerry Spokes and Michael Lester have developed the Studio Gallery in Fish Creek. “We have arty items made by local artists and craftspeople,’’ he said. “We have a lot of local content here.” While the
Gecko Studio Gallery is a compact exhibiting space, Michael said the range and outstanding nature of the work more than made
up for it. space is we lack make up he said.
“The exhibition small but what in quantity we for in quality,”
“SOUTH COAST TOURIST NEWS”, Autumn Edition, 2008 - PAGE 5
Inverloch’s very own shining stars By Lauren Malone
FOR the talented Bowden siblings, Julia and Daniel, while their musical careers are on the rise, Inverloch is always home. The pair’s acoustic performance at the recent Food and Wine Festival was a highlight, prompting their promise to return and perform at next year’s event “without a doubt”. At present, while Daniel prepares for a national tour with his Melbourne-based band C.C Martini, he is also part of a three-piece outfit, Bi-Valve, as lead guitarist, vocalist and writer, alongside former South Gippslander Justin Jenkins on bass and a Melbourne-based drummer. It’s a hectic schedule, considering that while C.C Martini have a single in the charts at present, and Daniel still finds time to explore production opportunities, having
recently recorded a theme song for a cable television program, and assisted in the show’s production. Julia, too, is one to watch. Proud father Phil says that her move to Melbourne will be “a matter of if, not when”. “She regularly gigs with Daniel as a duet, and has provided vocals for Bi-Valve on several occasions too,” Phil said. Despite such hectic schedules where, quite literally, the world awaits for both Daniel and Julia, both still call Inverloch home. Julia is based in Inverloch at present, and Daniel makes visits as often as possible to see family and friends, and surf.
Talented two: from left, Julia and Daniel Bowden both have hectic musical schedules in Melbourne, but always make time for Inverloch.
Plenty to explore, inside and out By Lauren Malone
Coastal attraction: the Bunurong Environment Centre, as depicted by local artist Renae Carmody, is an indoor treasure located in the heart of Inverloch, and ideal for those wishing to learn about the region’s flora and fauna.
AS Inverloch is such a popular seaside destination on the Gippsland coastline, it is no surprise that the area’s offering of excellent boating waters, surf, and spectacular scenery is often the main focus of visitors. For example, Anderson’s Inlet is a haven for wind surfers and other water based activities, and it also is shallow, making for safe family fun. The inlet is constantly changing, as is the town’s population.
During holiday periods, the sleepy seaside town swells with visitors, and last-minute accommodation is often hard to come by, whether it be campsites, cabins, or luxury accommodation. However the beaches, walkways, and range of natural scenery are easily accessible at all times of the year. During summer, beach numbers soar with the temperatures while the town’s central streets are abuzz with tourists. When autumn rolls around, though, similar tourist numbers flock to the area, but the weather is not always conducive to the wide range of outdoor activities
and water sports on offer. Together with common outings of coffee at the town’s many premier cafes, a drive along the Bunurong Coastal road, or a stroll through the shops, a little-known treasure, located in the heart of Inverloch is the Bunurong Environment Centre. This centre interprets the natural surroundings of Inverloch, including the shells and dinosaur diggings of the area. A range of literature is available, together with cards and gifts depicting the local surrounds. The centre is particularly relevant following the high-scale media attention that Inverloch’s “fossil hotspot” has received
throughout the past year. Having perused the centre and the range of treasures therein, visitors are well-equipped to identify the sights and species of the surrounds by driving the Bunurong Coastal Drive, which is a stunning 14-kilometre stretch of road between Inverloch and Cape Paterson, which hugs the coastline and provides an abundance of photographic opportunities. Less than two hours from Melbourne, and a regular feature in tourist publications and television’s Postcards, Inverloch is among Victoria’s most scenic treasures and certainly worth the visit.
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Hosts love their home THERE is no better way to really get to know a holiday destination than staying with people who are proud of their home town. The Kok family at the Port Welshpool Caravan Park fit the bill. Guus, Veronica and their son Adam will add a personal touch to visitors’ time away. Nestled on the shores of Corner Inlet and with spectacular views of Wilsons Promontory, the caravan park is rated as a three-and-a-half star park by the RACV. Nine luxury self-contained cabins offer two bedrooms, a queen size bed plus double and single bunk, full linen service, en suite, television and air-conditioning. There are also four standard cabins.
“Port Welshpool is ideal for recreational fishing and it’s a very pretty place. The inlet is protected from the ocean by islands, we have a nice bistro at the hotel and the milkbar sells fresh fish’n’chips,” Guus said. Cabins feature cooking facilities such as a microwave and ramps and large bathrooms cater for people with disabilities. On-site vans are welcome to use powered sites and an amenities block is conveniently located in the centre of the park. There are tent sites, a barbecue area, laundry facilities and a freezer for fish caught from the inlet waters. “The Port also has a maritime museum, a tennis court for hire, a bowling club, a yacht club and a nine-hole golf course is just a short distance away,”
Guus said. “Visitors will enjoy the scenery and magnificent skies during an early morning or late afternoon stroll along the beach.” The jetty, fisherman’s wharf, triple lane boat ramp, fish cleaning facilities, and children’s playground are close by. The park is at 67 Lewis Street, Port Welshpool. Guus, Veronica and Adam look forward to your call on 5688 1273.
Team focus: Guus, Veronica and Adam Kok welcome guests to their Port Welshpool Caravan Park.
Past comes to life Wildlife, explorers and more EXPERIENCE life in the days of Corner Inlet’s past at the Port Welshpool and District Maritime Museum. The museum features marine memorabilia and artifacts, plus a fascinating array of photos. The museum’s collection was gathered by William Bruce McGuire Smith and his sons Richie and Arnie,
during more than 80 years of commercial fishing in Bass Strait. Mr Smith Senior was the first fisherman at Port Welshpool and the museum was his early home. Fish are now among the items displayed, including striped tuna and flying fish. The museum is now open weekends and public holidays from 1pm to 4.30pm or by appointment.
THE history of Port Welshpool dates back to the 1830s when whalers were based on the shores of Corner Inlet.
Gazetted as Welshpool in 1851, and officially renamed Port Welshpool in 1952, the town began to prosper with the arrival of the railway in 1891, allowing produce to be taken to Melbourne for sale every day. Confusion surrounds the origin of the town’s name. Some say the town was named after an early settler Pat-
rick Welsh, while others say the name was based on a village on the border of Wales and Shropshire in the United Kingdom. The town’s post office was originally the hotel from the temporary township of Seaforth in the late nineteenth century. Early anglers used wooden boats with two pointed ends, and cotton nets, with sisal ropes and corks as floats. Rock lobster fishing took off in the 1930s, followed by shark fishing with long lines during World War 2.
The early explorers George Bass and Matthew Flinders reported seeing a flock of about 133 million mutton birds, spanning 80 yards long and 300 yards wide. Travelling at an estimated 50 mph, the flock took 90 minutes to pass overhead. Every November, the birds return to Corner Inlet. The beaching of 300 whales at Port Welshpool in 1957 drew some 10,000 people. • Information courtesy of Seafood Industry of Victoria and Fairfax Travel.
“SOUTH COAST TOURIST NEWS”, Autumn Edition, 2008 - PAGE 7
A brief history of Leongatha IF you look around Leongatha you quickly realise the town has been around for quite a while. Historical buildings abound. This humble town, the biggest of those administered by the South Gippsland Shire Council, is 120 years old. The township of Leongatha was initially reserved as Crown Land to prevent selection in the early 1880s. The township was officially surveyed in 1887 on behalf of the Lands Department by John Lardner, and followed the completion of the survey for the Great Southern Railway Line in the same year. The first Leongatha land sales, which included lots in Bair and Long Streets, were held in January 1888. Initially, there was some debate as to which area would develop as the main commercial hub of the town. However, the construction of the Municipal Offices and Shire Hall in McCartin Street in 1891
effectively shifted the balance of power in favour of the west side of the railway. Some of the first commercial buildings in Leongatha were erected in 1890, at the intersection of Long and Jeffrey Streets, to take advantage of the proximity to the new station that opened in the same year. The town’s humble chronicler of local events, The Great Southern Star, was established in the town in 1890. The opening of the new Butter Factory in 1905, and the increasing importance of Leongatha as a stock handling point on the South Eastern Railway, resulted in a threefold increase in its population. The first Leongatha land sales for allotments in Bair and McCartin Streets were held in April 1889, and the sites of McCartin’s Hotel and Bair’s Hotel were purchased at these sales, while part of the present site of the former Shire Hall and offices was reserved. The completion of the South Eastern Railway to
Leongatha in 1891 provided stimulus to development of the town, and McCartin’s Hotel (which was constructed the same year as the railway opened) together with the shops at 8 to 10 and 16 Bair Street demonstrated the early optimism for future growth. This important period of growth is dramatically illustrated by the key civic buildings, which include the Post Office (1906), Mechanics Institute (1911), Court House (1912) and Shire Offices and Hall (1926), as well as the significant commercial development that occurred including Edney’s Garage, Elizabeth House, Killeen House, Bair’s Otago Hotel and the former Goller’s Saddlery. The South Eastern Railway to Leongatha was opened on December 17, 1891 and this provided the impetus for the early development in the township, which occurred on both sides of the station ground. Some of the first buildings to be erected include: Hays’ store, together
with Long’s store and Mrs Maher’s Railway Dining Rooms (which were both in Long Street at the cor-
ner of Jeffrey Street) were among the first buildings to be constructed on the north side, while McCartin’s and
Bair’s Hotels among the first to the south. While the trains no longer come to Leongatha,
trade in the CBD is still brisk and the town looks set to get bigger in the years to come.
Historic location: Leongatha has been around for 120 years, and its humble chronicler, The Great Southern Star almost as long.
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Bush balladeer in Tiger Territory ARTHUR Ashenden is a bush balladeer par excellence and one of the leading lights in the local literary community. Unafraid to tackle the big issues, Arthur has written many contentious poems on a broad range of things. Some, like his classic Tiger Territory, have explored some of those subjects that may otherwise have been completely left alone. Bush balladeering is less about abstract ideas and high-falutin’ concepts
than what happens to people in the real world. Of course, some may argue that with Tiger Territory Arthur crossed a line into the supernatural territory. However, there seems to be enough evidence on the ground to back much of what is contained in Tiger Territory. Tiger Territory is not an ode to the Mirboo North Football Club but an exploration of all the strange phenomena of the region around Mirboo North and other parts of South Gippsland. “In recent years there have been sightings of a
Tasmanian Tiger around various parts of South Gippsland,” Arthur explained. “The Thylacine, Marsupial Wolf or Tasmanian Tiger- not related to either the tiger or the wolf, is a marsupial and carries its young in its pouch, and was considered to be confined to Tasmania. “Because of its fierce attacks on domestic animals, particularly sheep, it was trapped and shot until it was considered to be extinct.” Arthur said that for those who had sighted it there was “no mistaking” it.
Tiger Territory We’ve sighted all the big cats And we’ve sighted UFO’s, Seen Yetties in the mountains And their footprints in the snow, With many a different version All veiled in mystery, Though one thing is for certain We’re in Tiger Territory. A creature called a Thylacine Supposed to be extinct, Has made it through the march of time,
Is smarter than you think. From Koonwarra to Mirboo North And places in between, The news persists on coming forth The tiger has been seen. The C and E have not been moved And this we understand, Its very existence can’t be proved Till one is brought to hand; And when the proof is ours to show And stopped the controversy, Then every man and his dog will know We’re in Tiger Territory. Arthur said he wrote it for a “bit of fun” though he had to contend with being a two finger typist. His latest book will come out in the next few weeks and has been written in conjunction with the Back to Dumbalk committee. It will be entitled Dumbalk: a town in the Tarwin Valley.
Arthur Ashenden: the bush balladeer at home in Dumbalk, where he draws much of his inspiration.
“SOUTH COAST TOURIST NEWS”, Autumn Edition, 2008 - PAGE 9
Getaway with your best mate BEST Friend Holiday Retreat at Tarra Valley is the world’s first dog holiday park. As far as quality accommodation for people with dogs goes, the business is way ahead of the pack. Best Friend Holiday Retreat is quite unlike anything else around, boasting canine-friendly self-contained cabins securely fenced, where dogs are allowed inside. Caravan and camping sites are fenced. There are fenced off-leash dog exercise areas, a hydrobath hut for dogs, luxury dayuse dog kennels and a dog friendly playground. There is even an area suitable for showing of dogs, dog agility, dog obedience and dog flyball competitions. Proprietors Ralph and
Coralie Cooper believe dogs deserve the opportunity to enjoy a holiday as well. “It’s a place for people to holiday with their dog and have complete peace of mind,” Ralph said. “They can come and their dog will be safely protected in a safe environment without troubling anyone else.” Now, the holiday retreat is more than a caravan park. The Coopers, dog lovers themselves, have now opened the “Best Friend’s Dog Shop”, a one-stop shop for everything dog. It’s not a pet shop or a veterinary outlet, but features a wonderful range of gifts and goods with dog connections. They have note pads, pens, playing cards, ties, wallets, umbrellas, jigsaws, games and even
handbags in the shape of dogs. Enjoy dog-related ornaments, statues, umbrellas, jigsaws, games and all sorts of giftware and novelties, all available in various breeds. “The shop was only opened three months ago and has taken off,” Ralph said. Sales have been so strong the Coopers have decided to open an online buying service from April 1 at www.thedogshop.com.au The site is less than three kilometres from the Tarra-Bulga National Park, located in lush rainforest surroundings, adjacent to an all-year-round waterfall and a natural rock-formed swimming pool. During the day, visitors can fish for trout or freshwater cray or simply relax among the spectacular birds of the rainforest, in
serene parkland gardens. By night, toast marshmallows or chestnuts (in season) on your own private campfire while being watched by the park’s friendly resident koalas. The standard cabins all have private facilities and each has a garden outlook from a spacious barbecue decking. Cabins contain gas stove, refrigerator, microwave, TV and video. The park has its own extensive video library, with more than 700 titles to choose from. Staying in one of the new deluxe cabins is a chance to pamper one’s self. The cabins feature a queen sized bed in the main bedroom, huge lounge, separate toilet and bathroom, and a private covered outdoor decking with a ramp leading to a securely fenced grassed area.
A touch of country magic ‘THE Magic of the Country’ is the title of Di and John Koenders’ latest Art Show. The art show started on Saturday, March 8 (Labour Day weekend), and continues daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. until March 30 including All Public Holidays, and all Easter days. This historic country property has towering oak trees and conifers, planted by the pioneers, and colourful cottage gardens, where peacocks, geese, ducks, geese and guinea fowls wander through importantly! From the gallery’s balcony visitors can watch wild birds feeding, whilst through the 15 metres of panoramic windows, the Ranges stretch out before you. Recently, the revelation that John is a direct descendant of Vincent van Gogh has brought a new excitement to the Gallery, as well as the art world at large, and details of this amazing news are available for visitors. Also, major developments have occurred! Di and John will be travelling to Europe in 2008 to follow ‘In the Footsteps of van Gogh’. Television stations, as well as various publications, have expressed interest in the project and John will actually be painting many of the scenes and subjects immortalized by van Gogh – but through his eyes and in his own style. They are very excited about this ‘journey of discovery’, which will see them visiting the painting spots, but also his birthplace where he lived and worked, and other places of
Famous family: John and Di will be following in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh. significance in Vincent’s short and tragic life. Di and John will also be following new information that has come to light regarding van Gogh’s connection with Australian artists and recording information from that perspective. On their return, an Art Show will be held later to showcase some of John’s paintings with the “van Gogh connection! Obviously, their paintings have a new provenance and extra value with this famous connection, and can be purchased direct from the artists – thus saving costly commissions charged by private galleries. Di and John are both realist artists, and both their oils and watercolours are mellow and appealing, completed in intricate detail. This latest art show features a vast range of subjects, completed in many different mediums, catering for many varied tastes in art. Watercolours, oils, pencils, pastels, pen and ink and gouache works of landscapes – including
local farmhouses, scenes, seascapes, horse studies, wildlife and birds adorn the walls, and have a beauty and realism to please the soul. Di and John also do commissioned works – special individual paintings for people of their own homes, farms, animals and family members. Portraiture is one of John’s specialities. Their careers span over forty years, and within that time they have won many prestigious awards and accolades. Listed amongst their clientele are very familiar names, for instance – HRH Princess Anne (the Princess Royal), the Royal Household of the Sultan of Brunei, former Prime Minister – Mr. John Howard and Mrs. Howard, John Wood (actor and director), Mr. Jeff Kennett (former Premier of Victoria), Charles (Bud) Tingwell (actor), Rob Gell (TV Presenter), Peter Hitchener (TV Presenter), etc., Indeed, their paintings can be found all around the world in both private and corporate collections. Beautifully illustrated
and presented leatherbound books on both the artists are available at the Gallery, and these are truly collectable. Di and John are happy to personalize them for you, and they are signed and numbered. If you feel like a break from the everyday – and the busy world we live in – a short drive out to the magnificent rolling hills of Arawata is highly recommended. Not only is it a picturesque place to visit, being surrounded by the ambience and beauty of this magical venue is a delight to the senses! Di and John’s countrystyle hospitality is wellknown, and a quiet cup of tea or coffee, or a chilled glass of wine can be enjoyed whilst taking in all this unique place has to offer. Just a short ten minute drive from Leongatha or Korumburra, on Fairbank Road, it’s well worth the trip! For further enquiries or directions – please ‘phone Di or John on 56598262. or check their website on www.mayfieldgallery. com.au.
Greetings friends: Margaret and David Pellew welcome autumn visitors to their Tarra Valley Caravan Park “Fernholme”.
Let nature touch you MANY words have described the Tarra Valley Caravan Park “Fernholme” since the park’s visitors’ book began in 1949. “The best place in the world. We want to live here.” “A fine place to stay, a relaxing time, our favourite place”. “It’s very beautiful and relaxing”. “Rustic charm”. In a recent week, guests came from Switzerland, Spain, England, France and Germany to relax amongst the lush surrounds of rainforest and tall timbers, and experience a truly natural part of Australia. The park has six comfortable cabins based
around animal themes: Lyrebird, Blue Wren, Platypus, Rosella, Koala and Wombat. Four cabins have en suites and two are standard. Visitors can choose from on-site vans, 27 powered sites or 15 unpowered sites, and relax by bushwalking, chatting around a campfire, enjoying a picnic or socialising in a barbecue or picnic shed or games room. The nearby TarraBulga National Park features grand tree ferns and blends of myrtle beech and mountain ash. Visit in autumn and admire nature’s kaleidoscope. Your hosts Margaret and David Pellew would
love to hear from you. “We’re right by the Tarra River with eels, platypus and trout. It’s safe for kids and popular with fly fishermen. A lot of people will travel into Yarram for meals,” Margaret said. “We have resurrected the tea gardens next to the office. It’s amazing the amount of people who love gardens and we give so many cuttings away.” Keep an eye out for lyrebirds or call in and see Jo Jo the cockatoo. Pets are welcome (conditions apply). For more information, phone 5186 1283, contact email@tarra-valley.com or visit the website www. tarra-valley.com.
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Lazy days go quickly on the bay By Bert van Bedaf
ALL is quiet in Venus Bay, few people are around. Yet, a fortnight’s break passes quickly without doing a great deal. Things happen around you At night I can hear creatures snooping around the house. I guess they are large and small. A possum likes climbing on the verandah. A wombat rummages through the scrub next door. A kangaroo has made a nest behind the shed among the trees and bushes. This is one of the great attractions of Venus Bay, having wildlife visiting your block. The birdlife is equally as entertaining. Cheeky magpies keep me amused all hours. My resident roo wanders in during the day, grazing and relaxing under the Hills hoist. Comfortable, he feels at home. The other day he brought his girlfriend with him. She was a shy girl. She mainly stuck to the grass behind the water tank. They have hopped from the wetlands down the Fisherman’s Road jetty. Mobs of them cross the road in the evening from the third estate wetlands to the second estate. It is a wonderful sight every night. There’s a rabbit on
the grass for breakfast in the morning. Its big ears spring up when a car drives past. It runs away when a plumber’s truck makes a loud noise, out the back into bushes and down the hill it goes. Early the following morning, I leave a few carrots under the trees on the lush grass. But the rabbit doesn’t show up. The following morning the carrots are gone. I have no idea who has eaten them. On another afternoon I’m brewing tea in the kitchen. I look out of the window on the block. The sun pours golden light on trees that are rustling in the coastal breeze. Below, crossing the grass, an echidna slowly makes its way to a sandy area. Soon its long snout is buried into the soil, searching for ants. There are lots of For Sale signs. As I cycle around the township, real estate bill boards can be seen everywhere. Quite a few have a Sold sticker on them. Houses are “moving” again in Venus Bay, happy real estate agents say. Cycling is a great way of getting around. A regular route is straight down Lees Road through the Third Estate towards Point Smythe. On the way, two kangaroos, a mother and out-ofthe-pouch Joey, watch me
as I pass. On the way back, they are standing on the road. I’m not sure what I should be doing. I cycle on and they hop back into the wetlands. It’s been almost a week and I haven’t spoken with a soul. Lazy days are mainly occupied with writing and reading. The radio talks back softly in the background. On Sunday I cycle to Tarwin Lower and have lunch at the Riverview Hotel. Owners Pat and Jenny, with Ken in the kitchen, are doing a good trade. I’m having a warm chicken salad and a cold beer. Singer/ guitarist Neil Anthony performs on the decking. It’s a hot day. Another beer and I am back on the bike. The new track along the Tarwin River is a welcome addition to the area. Riders will appreciate the track as a fun ride. My second week is spent in cooler weather. There’s some welcome rain pouring into the tank. I exercise a bit of commerce. The cupboards are bare. I share the shopping between the Tarwin Lower and Venus Bay general stores. New people will move into the Venus Bay store after Easter, I hear. After five years, Chris and Carmen Challis are taking a break.
Resident roo: This male kangaroo regularly visits our block and has a nest behind the shed. Sometimes he brings his girlfriend.
Echidna arrival: One morning this echidna wandered on to the block, making itself at home. The new owners hail from Shepparton. Two weeks in Venus Bay go by quickly. Before I know it, I am packing up and driving back home to Leongatha. Someone emailed me on my second
day back at work. “Give it a week, Bert, and you’ll feel like you’ve never been on holidays!” She was half right. Holidays are never long enough. Luckily, Venus Bay is only a 30-minute drive away.
Tarwin Lower – just the facts
Sunday music: The Riverview Hotel in Tarwin Lower offers lovely lunches and entertaining music on Sunday afternoons.
IN THE 2006 Census (held on 8th August 2006), there were 115 persons usually resident in Tarwin Lower: 48.7 per cent were males and 51.3 per cent were females. Of the total population in Tarwin Lower 2.6 per cent were indigenous persons, compared with 2.3 per cent indigenous persons in Australia. Almost 15 per cent of the population usually resident in Tarwin Lower were children aged between 0-14 years, and 42.6 per cent were persons aged 55 years and over. The median age of persons in Tarwin Lower was 48 years, compared with 37 years for persons in Australia. Eighty seven per cent of persons usually resident in Tarwin Lower were Australian citizens and 16.5 per cent were born overseas. More than 72 per cent of persons usually resident in Tarwin Lower stated they were born in Australia. Other common responses within Tarwin Lower were England 7 per cent, New Zealand 5.2 per cent and Netherlands 3.5 per cent. During the week prior to the 2006 Census, 50 people aged 15 years and over who were usually resident in Tarwin Lower were in the labour force.
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Foster - a golden oldie IN 1870 a party of prospectors discovered gold in Stockyard Creek, about where the present Foster footbridge is. It proved to be a very rich find, and the registered claim was named the Great Uncertainty. After the news of the find became known the rush to the field commenced and many rich alluvial claims were discovered.The alluvial field comprised Kaffir, New Zealand and Ophir Hills, and a large area of the flats below them. Some of the richest claims were Number One South, about where the present-day Commonwealth Bank is; the Scotchmans, in the old State School grounds; the Prussians, in the car park at the entrance to the old tennis courts; the Big Long, behind the old Shire Hall; the Rise and Shine, behind “The Mirror” office; the Lankies, behind the Court House, and many others. When the alluvial field was more or less exhausted, mining activities were concentrated on quartz mining, three of the main ones being the Victory (the Historical Museum being on portion
of the lease), the Gladstone in the Parks Victoria depot yard, and the Jubilee on Kaffir Hill north of Mrs. P. J. Wilson’s home. The Victory commenced operating in 1887 and continued until 1908, producing 26,000 ounces of gold in that period. Mining continued spasmodically for a number of years, including the hydraulic sluicing of New Zealand Hill in 1917. The last company-operated mines to work in the Foster district were near the site of the Foster Bowls Club and in the Foster Recreation Reserve off Pioneer Street, opposite the Foster Primary School.There was also alluvial mining at Turtons Creek but this ran out in about 10 years.There was a small revival of prospecting and mining during the depression years, but nothing of any consequence resulted from these efforts. The Shire of South Gippsland Historical Society, now known as the Foster and District Historical Society, was formed at a public meeting in Foster on August 3 1973 with the hope of setting up a Museum in Foster. An anonymous donor donated $3000 and a further $1500 was collected
locally to begin to establish the museum but it was another four years before it was officially opened. Situated in Main Street, the museum complex which comprises the former Foster Post Office built in 1890, a one-teacher school building, a cottage, a bark hut and a more modern prefabricated school building used as a hall, is set in a terraced garden with Kaffir Hill at the back and Pearl Park in front. The society and the museum combine very well. Much research has been done and a number of local
histories have been written by members. Great credit is due to the volunteers who have contributed so much during the museum’s first very successful 25 years. See how the district developed - from the discovery of gold in 1870 to the establishment of a thriving dairy industry in later years.In the museum, the lifestyle of early pioneers is recreated and is supported by a fascinating collection of photographs and mementos. The entrance to the museum complex is through the old post office building, where the main
collection of exhibits is displayed. Besides running the museum, the society also conducts other activities such as organising special outings, producing a regular newsletter, creating special displays and conducting educational tours of the museum.The Society meets once a month on the first Tuesday of the month at 8pm. The venue is Crawford Hall in the museum grounds. Visitors are always welcome.The museum is open on school holidays, public holidays and Sundays.
Living history: the Foster Museum is a highlight of the town.
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Take a stroll through Koonwarra By Lauren Malone
KNOWN as the small town with a big heart, a stop in the contemporary rural village will not only open one’s eyes to a beautiful way of living, it’ll ensure many return visits. If it is the first Saturday of the month, make your visit prior to noon to stock up on local produce at the South Gippsland Farmers Market. Beyond that date, any day one chooses to experience Koonwarra, they’ll certainly leave, perhaps hours later, with a sense of the sustainable living for which this town prides itself. Whether it is a lesson in organic cooking, and both its benefits and simplicity, a new outfit, or a relaxing glass of local wine in gardens surrounded by roses and fruit trees, these are just some of the options at hand. The Organic Cooking School offers peaceful gardens to relax in, informed staff and, if you’re quick you may catch the photographic exhibition on display, at present, by renowned photographer Carolyn Johns, which explores the history of food and its changing place and form in an ever-changing world. Visit Thomas Burge’s Revamp, and be assured of personal, informative attention,
whether it be recycled or organic clothing, furniture, or a lively discussion about any or all of the above. Shoppers will come away with a renewed sense of personal style, and perhaps find themselves, once home, rearranging furniture with the Revamp interior in mind. Also on display as a feature in Thomas’ eclectic store is the award winning photography of James Archibald, offering scenes and profiles from throughout South Gippsland with a raw, artistic composition. Those feeling peckish have a range of options, from organic fruit and vegetables, to the vast array which comprises the menu of The Koonwarra Store. A new addition to the town’s growing list of attractions is The Outside Bit, a unique nursery offering everything from compost bins, garden decor, selected plants and giftware, healthy living and waterwise solutions, and organic garden pest management options. Proprietors Melanie and Tony also offer a garden design service to suit varied needs and budgets to help create your ideal sanctuary. For more details about Koonwarra, including extra options for places to visit and local identities to meet, visit www. koonwarra.vic.au and be sure to follow the links to all details of the town’s Sustainable Communities Centre.
Artistic image: The village of Koonwarra, as depicted by local artist Renae Carmody, was produced by the Koonwarra Village Association.
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Maritime Museum is a must By Lauren Malone
FOLLOWING a busy summer period, Port Albert’s Maritime Museum is about to enter its busiest tourism period. “Autumn is definitely our busiest time,” says Bill Black, a volunteer at the museum. What Bill doesn’t initially say, however, is that his presence at the museum is as much a drawcard for those in the know, as the many other relics and pieces of history the establishment boasts. Bill’s life is one which has been inextricably linked with the ocean. Those who happen upon a conversation with him during their visit mostly report that his story is an interesting one to hear first hand. Bill has been part of the museum for the past 11 of its 32 years. From a family of fishermen and sailors, he says his great grandfather was a parading ship captain during the 1870s and 1880s. “He had a brief stint at Port Albert fishing for oysters, travelling to the Melbourne market, together with captaining an inter-colonial trading ship,” he said. “Maritime interest is in my blood.” Operated by a voluntary committee of management and staffed by volunteers, Bill says the museum would interest those with even a slight maritime interest. Even the youngsters. “A new addition to our museum during the summer was a blue plastic
dingy, with sails, oars, and fishing lines with magnets on the end,” Bill said. “Children, and adults if they wish, can fish from the dingy because we also have a school of fish with magnets attached to their noses, which connect to the fishing lines.” “Because of the danger of climbing on the authentic fishing boat, a new plastic fantastic dingy, known as the Mollyhawk has been set up as a fun activity on the back lawn alongside the century old Morning Star.” After a summer period where the new addition was extremely popular among visitors to the museum, Bill says he can only imagine what autumn will bring, particularly as it is the busiest time for visitor numbers. While Bill is, in some ways, part of the museum in terms of his strong links with Gippsland’s maritime history, he says all volunteers are drawn to the museum because of their interest in history. “My favourite section within the museum is the communication and navigation room,” he said. “This section traces the history of navigation and communication in Bass Strait. “Shipwreck alley is also popular; it has sound effects such as thunderstorms and squalls, as well as lightning.” Relics of significant Gippsland shipwreck, the Clon Mel Paddle Steamer, which was wrecked on January 2, 1841, enroute from Sydney to Melbourne and wrecked at the Port Albert entrance. To experience these and a great range of other maritime-related relics, archives and activities, take a drive to Port Albert during our autumn break.
Above: Autumn attraction: braced for its busiest period in terms of tourist numbers, the Maritime Museum at Port Albert is worth a visit.
Boats galore: the range of maritime history offers a mixture of exhibits to be viewed, and interactive installations which visitors can be involved with.
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Coastal hamlet delights TOORADIN is a popular stopping place for travellers making their way to and from Melbourne and its suburbs.
Tooradin feast: sample some of the food available in Tooradin including these fish pies.
Indeed plenty of fish and chips have been consumed along the foreshore over the years. But more recently it’s moved on from being a halfway point to a day tripping destination. The foreshore area is a great place to stretch your legs after a couple of hours in the car with
Beautification project: new footbridges, walking paths, seats and tables feature around town.
its mangroves, wildlife, boardwalks and nature trails. For those with some dollars to spend, take a look at the items available to buy in the businesses along the coastal hamlet’s shopping strip. The Tooradin airfield also offers plenty of potential for fun. Tooradin is just 45 minutes from the city or Phillip Island and provides easy access to many destinations while still maintaining its rural charm.
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Lunch time: Barbara and Ted Breasley of Ventnor enjoy lunch at the Tooradin foreshore.
Foreshore fun: walk around the area.
Historic cottage: the fisherman’s cottage on the foreshore is an ideal place to learn about the Tooradin are. It is open every weekend and public holidays from 10.30am to 4.30pm.
Foreshore area: watch the tides go in and out and the birds playing on the water.
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The little town that grew WHEN most people think of Koo Wee Rup, they think of asparagus. But there is plenty more to learn about this vibrant little town. Koo Wee Rup is a small town 75 km south-east of Melbourne via the South Gippsland Highway and 45 metres above sea level. Reclaimed from marshlands at the head of Westernport Bay, it is increasingly becoming a residential centre in a fertile district given over to asparagus production, market gardens and dairying. A well-known Potato Festival is held in March to celebrate the longstanding association of the town and the vegetable. Prior to European settlement the area was occupied by the Bunurong Aborigines. It is from their language that the town’s name derives - ‘ku-wirup’ allegedly meaning ‘plenty of blackfish’ or ‘blackfish swimming’. The first European to closely scrutinise the shoreline of Westernport was William Hovell in 1826-27. Hovell had accompanied Captain Wright on his abortive attempt to establish an agricultural and military settlement on Phillip Island. In 1840 Paul Edmund de Strzelecki passed along the northern shore of Westernport during his overland expedition from the Murrumbidgee River through Gippsland to Melbourne. The first pastoral runs in the area
were established in 1839. However, interest in the area was limited by the swamp and the fact that a dense morass of peat lay beneath the surface of the water, formed by decomposed rushes and reeds. This rendered clearing extremely difficult. Private landowners made attempts at establishing drains to clear the swamp in the 1860s and 1870s with little success. However, areas of the swampland were opened up for selection after 1865 and local landowners applied pressure on the government to undertake drain-
age works, adding the fillip that reclamation works would ultimately attract more rates. Consequently, 9000 acres of marginal swampland were auctioned off in 1875 with a drainage fee added as part of the purchase price. However, the Lands Department then did nothing to initiate works, so the local landowners formed a committee and undertook the drainage works themselves, utilising the aforesaid fees. 100 contract labourers were hired and the drains cut by hand under adverse conditions.
Street life: the Koo Wee Rup main street is a vibrant shopping area.
Right on time: these interesting towers are a talking point for locals and visitors alike.
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Marching to ‘progress’ By Jane Ross
THEY call it progress. More parking, a bigger supermarket, units and townhouses, townhouses and units. San Remo was a peaceful fishing village when we moved there 27 years’ ago. The fleet used to be tied up two at a time on either side of the jetty and there’d be a flurry of activity when the boats returned to port, their holds filled to the brim. The trucks would line up, ready to take the load to the fish market and the weary fishing crew would head home for a decent shower and the welcome of loved ones. There aren’t many fishermen left now. Rising licence fees and reduced catch limits have all but put paid to the once thriving industry. Fresh fish and delicious fish and chips can be bought from the fishermen’s coop, which stands sentinel near the jetty, but there’s a question mark over how much longer the fishing can continue. The town relies on
tourism now and visitors come in ever-increasing numbers, drawn by the promise of an affordable holiday and a congenial chardonnay or lazy latte at one of the two pubs, two bakeries or burgeoning number of cafes (one organic). The Big Four must be ruing the day they skipped out of town, leaving residents and businesspeople without a bank. Bendigo seized the opportunity and its San Remo Community Bank has done so well, its shareholders are now receiving dividends. Despite the march of technology, the branch is always well patronised, its staff paying as much attention to the primary school child opening a first account, as more affluent patrons. They’re smart people at the Bendigo Bank; the branch is open on Saturday mornings too. Our children used to walk to the nearby San Remo Primary School and sometimes, our dog would sneak off after them, delighting the student
body with her cheekiness and wagging tail. We fought the Kennett Government’s plans to close the little school and now there’s talk of building a new secondary facility on the site, to cater for the teenagers who are streaming in to Wonthaggi Secondary College from Phillip Island and surrounds. We couldn’t have foreseen in the early 90s that the population would swell the way it has, but neither did the government and surely vision is part of governing. The annual migration of shearwaters (mutton birds) from Cape Woolamai in April, is better managed and the days of finding them flapping around in our garden, or squashed all over the roads and the bridge have thankfully gone. As towns grow, their colourful characters seem to fade. Ernie no longer walks his dog around the streets and beaches. As Ernie slowed up, his canine companion would plod on ahead, stopping now and then and turning his head
Fishermen’s cairn: a new memorial to the 22 San Remo fishermen who died in the course of their daily lives, was dedicated over the Labour Day weekend. to make sure his master was still tagging along behind. There’s no “Kittens” standing outside the pub at the end of his day of drinking, gasping through his emphysema and
waiting for a ride home. I’d love to know what happened to Bobby. He’d come in to the supermarket wearing his blonde wig, high heels, handbag and other trappings of female attire.
His five o’clock shadow and deep, gravelly voice gave away his true identity, but he behaved and was treated with courtesy. The San Remo/ Newhaven RSL has folded and there is no Anzac Day parade nor a service at the cenotaph on Remembrance Day. The cenotaph is on the foreshore opposite the supermarket and Norm, the one remaining World War II veteran who is still mobile, raises the flag in
a lonely ritual. There is a new memorial on the San Remo foreshore, opposite one of the pubs. Dedicated during the Labour Day weekend, it commemorates the 22 fishermen who left the port in the course of their daily lives and were lost at sea. The cairn features Cape Woolamai pink granite, a large ship’s anchor and view of the jetty from whence the fishermen put to sea.
Town’s heritage: the fishing fleet is diminished, but San Remo is still synonymous with the sea, the jetty and boats.
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Fishing for perfect spot SOUTH Gippsland is a mecca for fishermen and women alike. The diversity of waters and locations offers just as many species to choose from and guarantees a great way to explore the coast in the meantime. From land-based angling to seeking out fish from a boat in an inlet or at sea, the coastline from Phillip Island in the west to the Ninety Mile Beach in the west presents endless fishing opportunities. Here are some tips for the visitor.
Robertsons BeachMcLoughlins Beach Where: Shoal Inlet (near Kate Kearney entrance, Farmers Channel or Boat Harbour Channel), Manns Beach, McLoughlins Beach and surf beaches along Ninety Mile Beach. Species available: whiting, flathead, estuary perch, gummy shark, trevally, garfish. Tides: check locally for particular locations and if in a boat, be wary of banks at low water. Options: boat-based inside or outside, land-based
light fishing or surf.
Port Albert Where: Port Albert Channel, Midge Channel, Snake Channel, Clumps
Channel, Middle Bank, Albert River. Species available: flathead, trevally, whiting, flounder.
Tides: check locally for particular locations and if in a boat, be wary of banks at low water. Options: boat-based
in the inlet or outside, Albert River or jetties at Port Albert.
Port Welshpool Where: Lewis Chan-
nel, from Port Welshpool wharves, Franklin Channel, Bennison Spit. Species available: gummy shark, flathead, pike, garfish, snapper shark, trevally, snapper, whiting. Tides: several hours either side of the changes. Options: wharves at Port Welshpool and boatbased, either in the inlet or outside.
Corner Inlet Where: Bennison Channel, Middle Channel, Franklin River Channel, Toora Channel, Stockyard Channel. Species available: flathead, whiting, bream, snapper, gummy shark, leatherjacket, mullet, trevally. Tides: several hours either side of the changes. Options: predominantly boat-based fishing but land based fishing is available at Yanakie Beach. Marine parks: Corner Inlet Marine National Park in two sections: between Bennison Island and Wilsons Promontory, and from Tin Mine Hill on Wilsons Promontory past Granite Island to Middle Channel, and then back to Mount Singapore on the Prom.
Shallow Inlet/ Walkerville Where: throughout the main channels and feeder channels inside and outside. From any Walkerville beach and offshore between Waratah and Cape Liptrap. Species available: whiting, trevally, salmon, garfish, gummy shark, mullet, flounder. Tides: either side of tidal changes. Be wary of shallow waters, particularly around low tide. Some channels average
only 1.5m deep. Options: land-based, boat-based inlet and ocean fishing. Launch boats from the beach at Sandy Point or Walkerville South. Check weather conditions as the Shallow Inlet bar is hazardous and the Walkerville South beach is prone to rough conditions.
Anderson’s Inlet Where: inlet, outside, Tarwin River and Screw Creek. Mahers Landing is good for land and boat fishing, and is a popular alternative launching venue. Venus Bay is a popular surf fishing spot. Species available: whiting, garfish, salmon, snapper, gummy shark, tailor, estuary perch, bream, flounder. Tides: an hour before and after low water near the inlet entrance and at Mahers Landing. Try either side of high tide too. If fishing Screw Creek, fish soon after high tide. Options: land and boatbased fishing.
Phillip Island Where: San Remo entrance, off Cape Woolamai, right around the coast to Ventnor. Species available: whiting, barracouta, yellowtail kingfish, salmon, trevally, flathead, snapper and sweep. Elephant fish are popular at this time of year. Tides: either side of high or low tide. Options: Variety of rock and surf options, and many boat-based possibilities. Marine park: the Churchill Island Marine National Park is located between Churchill Island and Long Point and back to Swan Corner on Phillip Island.
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Charmed by friendly Poowong PUBLICANS Ben Hall and Fiona Cox have been at the Poowong Hotel for 18 months now. Socialising while working and meeting new people are a couple of the best things about being publicans in Poowong. “We looked at many hotels both in the city and country, but this was perfect, and close to the grandparents and still only an hour and a quarter to Melbourne,” Fiona said. “Ben’s Irish so when we first came up here and had a look it reminded him of Ireland. With all the rolling hills the region is very much like Ireland, but without the
weather. We were talking to relatives over there recently and it was really cold.” Ben and Fiona live with daughter, Charlie. “I’ve been in pubs since leaving school and I’ve grown up in pubs,” Fiona said. “Country patrons are friendlier, you probably get to know people a lot better than in city pubs where there’s one on every corner. “Here they’re all true locals and you get to know about them and their family and when they’ve had good days and bad.” The Poowong Hotel opens its doors from 11am daily, and is open until late on Thursday, Friday and
Saturday nights. Lunch is available from Thursday to Sunday between noon and 3pm, and dinner from Wednesday to Saturday between 6pm and 9pm. The menu changes seasonally and the specials change daily. There’s entertainment once a month and on New Year’s Eve. For those who can’t enjoy a drink at the hotel there’s a fully stocked bottle shop, including ice. Big screens, pool table, dartboard, jukebox and Kids Korner will keep anybody looking for a fun night at the Poowong Hotel busy. There’s a Friday night meat raffle as well.
Poowong publicans: Ben Hall and Fiona Cox are enjoying life at the Poowong Hotel.
Options galore: there’s plenty to do when you stop at the Poowong Hotel, including pool, darts, a jukebox, Kids Korner and monthly entertainment, as well as drinks and meals on some days.
Pristine water: a reservoir on Soldier’s Road near Poowong.
Rural charm: explore gravel country roads after a meal at the Poowong Hotel.
Green hills: surround Poowong township and remind many of the Irish countryside.
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Carringtons
Suspension bridge
Loch Victoria Street Gallery
Sunnyside Park
Historic Loch WHEN you’re travelling in South Gippsland make sure you set aside some time to stop in “Historic Loch – The Garden Village”.
Cold break: Janelee Dorian of Poowong North and Lorrie Burns of Drouin, with Patrick in the pram, enjoy an ice cream in Loch at the quilt event earlier this year.
This charming village was pioneered in 1876 and named after the State Governor’s wife, Lady Loch. There were 67 shops and businesses in Loch during its peak and it had a butter factory, saleyards, railway station and hospital as well. While once the area was an impenetrable forest of blue and white gum, messmate, hazel and Blackwood with massive tree ferns, today you’ll notice the green hills that remind many British visitors of country villages at home. These can be best appreciated from the Cape Horn lookout, which is a two kilometre drive out of town up the Loch-Wonthaggi Road. Thirty different locations are pointed out by a directional marker and at times Westernport Bay is visible. If you need a place to camp for
the night consider Loch Memorial Reserve on Loch-Poowong Road, which offers wonderful recreational facilities. There are 100 year old Oak trees that provide shade and are of historical significance as they honour fallen soldiers from the district. Visitors can enjoy free electric barbecues, a picnic gazebo, public tennis courts, a playground, footy/ cricket oval and toilets. From here you can walk across Allsop Creek on a suspension bridge. The South Gippsland Tourist Railway operate trains through Loch, to Nyora and Leongatha at either end of the line, every Sunday and on various other days. On the land next to the railway station the Strzelecki Lions Club holds a market every second Sunday of the month in the warmer months; from May to September it’s in the public hall. Sunnyside Park also has play equipment, a purpose-made area for skating, a barbecue and picnic
gazebo. In the town itself are several antique and collectables shops, craft businesses, a gallery, cafes and the Royal Hotel. Centennial Park on the main street has a mural by a Wonthaggi artist painted on the outside of the toilets. One picture in the mural is of war banners Loch was awarded by the government, because during World War II residents raised 49,950 pounds for the war effort and was described as Australia’s most patriotic community. Close to Loch are several wineries, bed and breakfast venues and an award-winning native animal and bird sanctuary, known as Henrys Creek Sanctuary. Loch is also just over an hour’s drive to the southern suburbs of Melbourne and an easy drive to Phillip Island, Wilsons Promontory, or the beautiful beaches of Inverloch and Cape Paterson.
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Gilded Lily
Royal Hotel
South Road
Hard Loch Cafe
Great view: check out the location marker at the Cape Horn lookout.
Lovely Loch: the peaceful, and beautiful, main street.
Train trip: take the South Gippsland Tourist Railway to or from Loch.
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Burra’s biggest burgers The biggest burger in Gippsland has landed at Korumburra. While other foods simply arrive, this one blocked out the sun and crashed to the ground with a deafening thud! The giant Brendan Burger is a gargantuan treat that is twice the size of a normal hamburger with the lot. “Some people cut it in half,” the eponymous Brendan Kingwill (BK) revealed. Brendan, who has made a name for
Ann Smith: the Korumburra manager is pictured with BK’s delicious chicken burger. The Brendan Burger was too heavy to lift.
himself with his “cheesy” promotions (his words), said the takeaway business was booming. Free burgers the Korumburra Cricket Club meant that word had got around town just how good Brendan’s burgers were. “In our first month in Korumburra we sold more Brendan Burgers than in a whole year in Trafalgar,” Brendan said. Indeed, people were lined up around the block when BK’s Takeaway opened in the town on December 4 last year. The quality eatery is located opposite Korumburra Primary School. BK’s has an outlet in Trafalgar which sprang into life on October 11, 1999. The popular Trafalgar food outlet has expanded its operations to Korumburra and the response has been emphatic. From a humble beginning, BK’s has become one of the best known and loved takeaway food outlets in Gippsland. BK’s has become famous for its large ready to go hot food selection, its unusual and unique promotions and huge food variety. Brendan looks forward to opening another outlet in the near future. BK’s is a cut above your average takeaway outlet, and is set out more like a restaurant than a regular fast food eatery. With heaps of space to dine and ta-
New outlet: the Korumburra takeaway experts have done a brisk trade since opening in December last year. bles set up outside, BK’s is a must-visit venue for the whole family. But if you’re in a hurry and need something quick, there is lots of great food ready to go. Brendan also makes a wonderful cappuccino, latte or hot chocolate. Slush Puppies and icecreams are also among the more popular items at the takeaway shop. Brendan said Korumburra locals had been “very supportive of the busi-
ness”. “The local tradies in town were great too. Our renovations took about six weeks and they were really reliable and helpful,” he said. Looking about the shop there is little doubt the builders have done a great job. Clean open spaces and modern fittings means BK’s is quite unlike some other dingy eateries. But for the hungry traveller or local who wants to get their fill, nothing is as important as what is served across the
counter. Among the super specials are BK’s bacon and cheese burger, chicken rolls, family deals, omelet wraps, and the ever popular family deal, which includes two hamburgers with the lot, two dim sims, two potato cakes, six country chicken strips and chips for a mere $15. BK’s takeaway is truly the Big Kahuna of family fast food in South Gippsland.
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Stop for a picnic KORUMBURRA’S most famous attraction, Coal Creek is ready to shine as it embarks on a new era. Tourists and South Gippslanders alike are being encouraged to take a look now that the village’s refurbishment has been completed. At the new Coal Creek, entry is free and visitors are being encouraged to enjoy its new identity as a “community park and museum”. You’re invited to stroll, picnic and train-ride through the beauty of the village, while sharing the treasures of our past in the many interesting displays. It’s a top spot to bring some food to enjoy among the beautiful natural setting, which features a wonderful lake and many tall trees. The village’s reopening will be officially celebrated on March 16. It coincides with Coal Creek’s move to being open every day each week,
except for Tuesdays and Wednesdays. These hours will continue all year round, except for the few months of deepest winter each year when the Park will revert to weekends and public holidays. At the reopening, which is squarely aimed at families, local musicians will provide free music in the village. Music will begin at 11am and the official opening ceremony will occur at 11.30am. The music will then continue until about 3pm. There will also be refreshments and drinks available from the Pig and Whistle. March 16 is the perfect opportunity for everyone to see the changes that have taken place at Coal Creek and experience everything the village has to offer. “After visiting we hope that people will then feel encouraged to bring their visitors and friends to utilise the park more,” Jeff said. Now that entry to the park is free
it’s the ideal place to stop for an hour. “I’d just like to invite all the tourists driving through South Gippsland to drop in and have a look and they’ll be able to experience a part of Gippsland and Australia’s history,” Jeff said. “We are not a theme park, but rather a passionately loved and carefully maintained vision of our community’s past. Coal Creek is very much alive and a part of us all.” Since Coal Creek reopened on weekends and public holidays there’s been a steady stream of visitors taking a look. “We’ve had a wide range of visitors from both within the shire and outside including school groups, some international visitors from Germany and England,” Jeff said. Comments written by visitors in the Coal Creek visitor’s book suggest they like what they see. “(We) had a great time and (it was) very interesting,” visitors from the United Kingdom wrote.
Happy customer: Mrs Liz Leigh, a volunteer at Coal Creek’s General Store, which is among the state’s finest, serves a happy customer a luscious lollypop. Tourists from New South Wales said it was “a very interesting attraction with a good value lunch at the hotel”. Still more visitors were singing the
village’s praises including someone who took 100 photos. “(It’s) such a fabulous area, love the history (and) keep up the good work,” they wrote.
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