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The Prom is open again! By South Coast Tourist News co-ordinator Gavin Van Eede AUTUMN is here in Prom Country and it’s a great time to go out and explore our fantastic region. The big news is that the Prom is open again after the devastating fires. A vis-
it to Wilsons Promontory is a must for any visit to the area. Some of the scenery since the fires is amazing to see and it is wonderful that re-growth is already starting to happen. Access is limited and visitors are asked to abide by closures and keep to tracks / roads for safety reasons. 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, 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. 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
Plenty happening: South Coast Tourist News co-ordinator Gavin Van Eede. this beach, or ride a bike when the tide is out. This season is a great time for a bike ride. Start at Leongatha or 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 opened last 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.
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Smoke clears on tourism SOUTH Gippsland is ready for tourists after summer bushfires. The area around Mirboo North and Boolarra was affected by a fire in late January. More than 25,000 hectares at Wilsons Promontory were burnt as well. Wilsons Promontory reopened to visitors on March 21. Near Mirboo North the Lyrebird Walk and Mirboo North Boolarra Rail Trail were devastated due to the fire and remain closed as South Coast Tourist News went to print. But otherwise the region is ready
Still here: the most popular parts of The Prom have been untouched.
for tourists to return and enjoy this magnificent part of Victoria. Allison Cakebread at Birchwood Retreat, near Mirboo North, said the three cottages at the property are definitely open for business. She had to cancel a couple of bookings due to the bushfires. “It did go very quiet for about a month and we had no one in, but people seem to be getting back on with things now,” she said. “It’s very safe and secure and it’s not all burnt. There are pockets burnt, but most places are as they were before. “It’s still a great place to come to, it’s still beautiful.” Environment and Climate Change Minister Gavin Jennings, said Wilsons Promontory National Park is an icon for Victorian tourism. “The recent fire is now under control and the park is safe for visitors,” Mr Jennings said. “The Prom is arguably the most loved national park in Victoria. The Brumby Government understands the fundamental importance it plays in the South Gippsland region and to the State of Victoria.” The 130 km coastline that surrounds the Prom frames granite headlands, mountains, forests and fern gullies. The park contains the largest coastal wilderness area in Victoria. Tidal River, 30 km inside the park, is the major focus for tourism and recreation in the region. The main visitor areas of the park, including Tidal River, Norman Bay and Squeaky Beach, were not affected
by fire. “Visitors to the Prom will see the affects of fire. The Cathedral fire has burnt with varying intensity across the northern half of the park, particularly
through the forests on the Vereker and La Trobe ranges, leaving a mosaic of colour,” he said. “This varies from the black where the fire has burnt the canopy, to brown
where leaves have dried, to the green of unaffected areas. “I encourage campers to return to the Prom and watch its renewal over the next few years.”
Retreat to serenity BIRCHWOOD Retreat, just out of Mirboo North, is an ideal place for a relaxing country experience. There are three self contained, self catering cottages with rural and bush outlooks. Fires in late January surrounded the property, but didn’t burn it. Allison Cakebread, who operates Birchwood Retreat with husband, John, said the wind must have changed direction in time. “It’s happened on three sides of us, which is quite amazing,” she said. There are two, one bedroom cottages and a two bedroom cottage. A hydrotherapy spa will be ready to be enjoyed by guests very soon. Birchwood Retreat is a great place to come and unwind. Enjoy a bottle of wine as you sit on the verandah and look over the bush. “It’s probably ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway, but families are welcome, of course, in the two bedroom cabin,” Allison said. “There’s bush walking around our property. Walkers might see wallabies and echidnas and guests can go yabbying in the creek.”
Days of wine and roses: Gavin and Sindy Van Eede enjoy time out at the Birchwood Retreat. The Cakebreads and their children moved to Mirboo North from Mount Martha about 12 months ago. The region’s serenity and beauty were the major attractions and they love their new home. “All in all, Birchwood Retreat is a good place to come and relax and do nothing if that’s what you like,” Allison said.
For meals, take a trip into Mirboo North and enjoy the Grand Ridge Brewery, one of several cafes, or the hotel. Birchwood Retreat is in a central location for day trips in the area. “We’re right on the Grand Ridge Road. The scenery is spectacular. There’s some beautiful native bushland,” Allison said.
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South Gippsland’s happy trail IT’S a tourism icon that, one day, may be unrivalled in Victoria.
Prom hope: one day the Great Southern Rail Trail may extend all the way to Wilsons Promontory.
The Great Southern Rail Trail stretches from Leongatha to Foster, with potential for growth towards Yarram and Wilsons Promontory. Since its opening, the trail has become a regular part of the lives of thousands of South Gippslanders, as well as an attraction for the region’s many visitors. The major development of recent years has been the 242 metre Pumphouse Bridge over the Tarwin River near Meeniyan. Running between the highway bridge and the disused railway bridge, the metal construction has fast become a talking point for travellers and a favourite part of the rail trail for people travelling on two legs, four legs or two wheels. “The bridge is of extreme interest to people,” Great Southern Rail Trail president Eric Cumming said. “We’ve had over 1400 people cross the bridge since we opened it in June.” While the bridge has become the jewel in the crown for the rail trail, there are now numerous small constructions that are less spectacular, but just as important to travellers. The Great Southern Rail Trail Committee has built ten shelters along the trail, providing a much needed break for weary walkers or relief from rain or sun. “We sited most of them approximately four kilometres from the nearest town, so you can go for a decent walk and you can find somewhere to hide if the weather turns bad,” Eric said. The committee has not forgotten the many four legged travellers, who can need a drink and a safe haven during their
exercise. A water tank at the Pumphouse Bridge car park will slake the thirst of dogs, while horses will be catered for, with water troughs to be built within planned holding pens. For those looking for the road less travelled, there are small sections of track that run beside the rail trail through the bushland. The sections of track, which are often used by horse riders and mountain bikers, are located just out of Leongatha, on the Fish Creek side of Foster and between the South Gippsland Highway and Buffalo. Known as equine trails, the paths wander near the rail trail, giving users a different experience. “The horse riders around Foster always rode on the maintenance trails alongside the tracks … that’s where we got the idea from” Eric said. “It’s a different experience as these trails are a lot thinner and meander along. “It gives people the opportunity to have a closer look at the vegetation.” The prospect of extending the trail to Yarram and even to Wilsons Promontory would turn an already great experience into one of the world’s premier bike rides. In the meantime, Eric said the rail trail was evolving all the time and was accommodating the interests of a diverse range of people. “There’s something for everyone. There’s short walks, long walks, bike rides, horse riding – you name it,” he said.
Trail president: Eric Cumming and young friend make one of the first trips across the Pump House Bridge.
Know your rail trail • Leongatha to Koonwarra (8km): a gentle descent to Koonwarra through open farmland. Koonwarra has craft and coffee shops and a farmers’ market on the first Saturday of the month. • Koonwarra to Minns Rd (3km): on-road highway cycling is required. Past Koonwarra the trail goes through an underpass of the South Gippsland Highway. The high-quality trail finishes in 200m, opposite the Koonwarra Recreation Reserve, but you can go another 500m parallel to the highway on the old cleared ballast stretch to another side gate that takes you on to the highway (and avoids the unsafe trestle bridges that are closed to the public). Once on the highway it’s a 1.5km ride to Minns Rd. • Minns Rd to Meeniyan (6km): on-road highway cycling required. When you reach Minns Rd you can get back on the trail through a gate and along a short track. This is not sign posted yet. Continue along the rail trail and across the new bridge over the Tarwin River and ride into Meeniyan. Meeniyan has restaurants, craft, picnic and free barbecue facilities. • Meeniyan to Buffalo (11.5km). This is a fairly flat section of trail that starts from behind the petrol station and passes through lowland forest and swamp scrub. • Buffalo to Fish Creek (8km). The trail enters the foothills of the Hoddle Range and rises 40m in elevation through this section. There are a number of cuttings and embankments and the scenery ranges from blue gum forests to open farmland. Fish Creek has toilets, accommodation and cafes. • Fish Creek to Foster (13.5km). The trail climbs a valley on the west side of the Hoddle Range and passes Mt Hoddle (visible to your right). At the road bridge, 0.5km from Lowry’s Rd, the trail takes a sharp bend to the north and starts the descent to Foster along the steep eastern side of the Hoddle Range, via a series of cuttings and embankments. The trail emerges from dense forest to offer views of Wilsons Prom and Corner Inlet. Foster has accommodation, cafes and toilets.
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SO! me is a Mecca for tourists Make the sea change The Leongatha treasure trove in Bair Street has a strong local clientele, but according to manager Janine Towns, people flock there from all over the region, including a regular contingent from Phillip Island. It’s easy to see why. Since SO! me opened a couple of years ago, the stock has expanded and those who are at leisure, could easily spend hours in there having the time
of their lives. The range of goods is eclectic and the prices very reasonable. Merchandising is a big feature of SO! me and a lot of thought has gone in to the setting up. The floor is tiled in black, offset with an occasional rustred glazed square. The walls are lined with racks of elegant clothes, lovely leather hand and carry bags, scarves and cabinets of jewellery. The scarves are imported directly from South East Asia and Janine
Great variety: SO! me manager Janine Towns, with a small sample of the gifts, curios and occasional pieces for sale at the Leongatha store.
said many are unique to Australia. Display cabinets also fill the centre of the shop, enticing interest on either side as customers make their way down the aisles. There is a huge array of fashion jewellery with all the latest designs and body adornments for those who find them appealing. Owned by Hess and Jennie Strengers, SO! me also stocks a range of Jennie’s jewellery under the Zenergie label. Jewellery, handbags and several ranges of clothing are imported and tastefully displayed. There is day wear and delicate, floaty pieces that would suit virtually any social occasion. There are two main varieties of handbag; those crafted from material such as silk and those made from leather. The material bags come in many sizes, styles and colours, leaving the shopper well able to purchase something affordable to match any outfit. The leather bags are stunning, ranging in colour, size and holding capacity. Then there are gifts such as books, figurines, boxes, silk lights, wood carvings and occasional pieces, beautiful occasional pieces SO! me is different, in its décor, in its product. It provides a huge and wonderful variety and is delightfully unlike fashion shops in either the city or surrounding towns. But there are no delusions of grandeur. SO! me is about service and satisfaction, whether its customers live locally, are holidaying or just passing through.
On Anzac eve, April 24, local State member Peter Ryan MLA, will officially open the Prom Coast Sea Change Festival at 6 pm, and there will follow a theatre night at the Foster Memorial Hall with a performance of Dinner with Hugo, a gourmet thriller. At the Rythmn Café at 7.30pm there will be a screening of the Turkish documentary Gallipoli; the Frontline Experience with narration by Jeremy Irons and Sam Neill. Also at Fish Creek’s Orange Roughy Café, Peter Weir’s much loved film Gallipoli will be screened; both will form an appropriate lead in to Anzac Day on Saturday, April 25. After observing morning ceremonies in the Prom Coast towns (Fish Creek, Foster, Toora, Port Welshpool and Welshpool) there will be two-up games, a music and food event at Fish Creek, and a wonderful new event, ‘Living Books’ where you can learn the intriguing stories of local legends by talking with them. At Toora the art galleries will be showing their wares, and at the Heritage Pear Orchard there will be a Bocce championship and Ari Bos’s bush band. On Saturday night, Foster’s Memorial Hall will rock to the sounds of The Black Sorrows with Joe Camilleri live, arranged by Lyrebird Arts Council. On Sunday, April 26, you can take the children to Storytime at Foster’s Little Bookshop from llam to 2pm, with Jennifer Jones the story teller, and then sit down to the Fantastic Street Lunch where you can taste the best of South Gippsland’s food and wines. Strolling players will keep the music flowing, and local, Prue Fleming will be laying down her 50 cent challenge in Main Street. Bring your 50 cents jar to help form a long, long line which will be donated to the South Gippsland Hospital. (Last Festival she raised $27l0). At 3.30pm, just down the road apiece a Hypothetical, hosted by Judge John Smallwood, who was born and bred in Foster, titled Not In My Backyard will entertain the audience as local identities discuss a controversial topic. Meanwhile the Foster Museum will honour Anzac weekend with a special display titled Australians at War, and the Celia Rosser gallery, the Ride a Wild Goat, the Stefani and the Gecko galleries will all be open at Fish Creek. Foster’s Stockyard gallery will be showing an exhibition titled Shift, work by members of the Prom Coast Arts Council.
Bass back: Edwin Coad, AKA George Bass, has helped bring the story of the intrepid explorer back to life. The second weekend, May l to 3, will see an ambitious Promontory Dreaming project culminate in a stage production titled Starscapes and Visions composed by Larry Hills. Three local choirs (l00 voices) and a l5 piece orchestra, together with 20 adult dancers will depict the voyage of the youthful George Bass, as he mapped Wilsons Promontory from a nine metre open whale boat which he sailed with six crew from Botany Bay in l797.
This extraordinary feat of daring and seamanship prompted Larry Hills to put some excerpts from the Bass diaries and from the poetry of Laurie Duggan to music, and he has composed a beautiful work which has been in rehearsal by choirs, orchestra and dancers for some months. Choreography, costumes, lighting and visual effects (some will be art works by local school students) are from local designers and residents with professional skills to offer. The Governor of Victoria, Professor David de Kretser, the Festival Patron, has notified the Sea Change planning committee that he will attend Starscapes and Visions. There are other delights to be experienced; the Women’s Circus workshop at the South Gippsland Secondary College, a visit to Foster’s Manna community garden, guided walks by Conservation Society members, Irish music and dancing at the Toora pub and sea side activities at Port Welshpool. Check the web site to see the program in full, accommodation options, bookings, and details of the performers www. promcoastseachangefestival.org
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FOR Mezatt Restaurant at the Foster Golf Club everything changes, but all the good things stay the same. Those meals that everyone has grown to love remain a constant – and they constantly bring in restaurant-goers looking for that satisfying dish. But Mezatt likes to help diners experience something new, and while there is always an old favourite on the menu, there is often something new to tempt the more adventurous foodie. Adding his own special magic to the Mezatt menu is new chef Matt Craine. “He started in Ballarat and he was working in the pub in Foster. He’s finished his apprenticeship with us and has come a long way from pub to restaurant cuisine,” Mezatt manager Elias Haddad said. Elias said the young chef had been a great acquisition to the restaurant. A creative force, Matt was very good at inventing new recipes. The menu would see some changes during Autumn, and after Easter would embrace “nice old traditional foods”. “We will have lamb racks, some Mexican foods, healthy eating menu – salads, vegetables, stuff like that. Everything else on the menu is pretty good,” he said. “We try to keep the most filling and the people’s favourites on the menu. The pie dishes will be out until the winter. The
same thing happens in the summer, when we again freshen up the menu.” At Mezatt, change is as good as a holiday. Regulars come in knowing they can get their favourite dish, but they know too that there will always be something new to tantalise their taste buds. Among the most recent events at the restaurant was a French Night, which was well attended. The theme nights are a favourite of the staff and foodies alike. Mezatt hosts a number of different theme nights, depending on the wants of customers. A Mexican night is another likely inclusion on the restaurant’s events calendar, as well as one devoted to Thai or Indian cuisine. Mezatt caters for old and young alike, and all people in between. The broad range of cuisine means there’s something for everyone. And eating at the restaurant won’t send you broke. The restaurant offers a 15 per cent discount to pensioners, except on themed nights or for already discounted specials. With a deal like that, you cannot afford to eat anywhere else.
Mezatt, where it’s at: Mezatt Restaurant owner and manager, Elias Haddad welcomes aboard new chef, Matt Craine.
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The store with more LIKE Dr Who’s Tardis, Fish Creek Hardware offers a lot more than initially meets the eye. The smallish shop front belies a world of hardware that awaits behind the entrance door. The store sweeps back into a huge space that contains everything the home handyman, farmer or tradesman could need. Owner Paul Inglefinger said people are constantly surprised when they walk in the door to find what lies within. “The comment by new customers
is usually ‘it’s big isn’t it’,” he said. Having doubled the size of the store five years ago, Paul said he was keen not to lose the friendly focus of the local hardware shop. “It’s all about the personality and knowledge of people that you have working in the shop,” he said. “Even people who know what they are doing or looking for can still do with some help or advice.” For the average person looking for a can of paint, length of pipe or new tool, there is no better place to be. The staff can help you make the right choice on which tool is the best
Hardware and home: Paul Inglefinger has everything from barbecues to bench saws.
for a job or which type of wood will most suit your requirements. Any question you have, they can answer it. Having shifted to Fish Creek almost 20 years ago, Paul reckons he almost qualifies as a local. In Fish Creek and district, however, they have taken Paul to their hearts and are happy to support such a crucial business for the town. “People are really good,” he said. “A lot of farmers, for instance, rely on us being there for all their plumbing gear and all their bits and pieces.”
Take a wild ride WITH over 30 years experience in furniture, fine woodwork, timber milling, building and demolition, Andrew McPherson is starting a new venture.
Top team: Gary Wagstaff (left) is one of the friendly staff giving Paul Inglefinger a hand at Fish Creek Hardware
Having converted the old butcher shop in Fish Creek into a gallery workshop, he is opening with an exhibition of his paintings, drawing on the landscape around the area. He will then set about creating pieces of furniture. “By bringing together a lifetime of joinery experience, an artist’s eye and a range of predominantly recycled materials, I hope to create beautiful pieces that are spontaneous and fun, but still sound and functional,” Andrew said.
“Using relatively inexpensive recycled materials allows me to experiment and let the piece evolve as it goes along. “My instincts, the material available and the piece itself as it develops all influence the final outcome, which may be quite different from what I originally envisaged.” “This method of designing is slightly scary, but exciting and fulfilling as you don’t know the final outcome until it arrives.” “It’s part of what I term Ride the Wild Goat, just climb on, keep hold and trust it’ll take you somewhere you want to go.”
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Enjoy seafood with a water view DINE by the sea in style at the popular coastal venue, the Pier Port Hotel at Port Welshpool. Specialising in gourmet seafood prepared straight off the boat, the hotel’s culinary team offers a
diversity of fish, scallops and oysters, cooked to perfection. Guests can eat in-house or pop in for take-away fish’n’chips, ready for enjoying in the park, on the jetty or in the comfort of your accommodation. Meals are available from
Irresistible dish: Gypsy Whittle, an apprentice chef at Pier Port Hotel at Port Welshpool, with a popular berry pavlova.
either the fixed menu or rotating specials selection, with a variety of hotel favourites and fancy choices. Choose from such dishes as grain fed scotch fillet; chicken breast topped with bacon, camembert cheese and chive sauce; and a seafood selection of flake, calamari, oysters, prawn kebabs and grilled scallops. The desserts menu is mouthwatering with such choices as lemon meringue cheesecake, rocky road ice cream, baked orange cheesecake and Death by Chocolate. Glorious views across Corner Inlet and towards Wilsons Promontory are available from the upstairs restaurant. Friday night is the popular parmigiana night and free poker, so pop in for a night of guaranteed fun. Kids, big and little, will love to play pool or have a go at a variety of electronic games. Visitors are welcome to join the hotel’s social club to meet locals and be eligible for trips away, and the hotel social footy tipping competition creates interest among locals. Those on the run can just pop into the bottleshop for a quick drink. Open seven days, the hotel offers meals from 12-2pm and 6-8pm.
Space galore: Vicki Freeman cleans the roomy cabins at the Port Welshpool Caravan Park and ensures facilities are to guests’ satisfaction.
Stay where you are welcome 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.
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Pottery passion shows THE exquisite pottery of an artisan passionate about his work will be on show throughout Easter and autumn. Robert Barron of Gooseneck Pottery is displaying a variety of aesthetic and practical pieces from his last firing, and offering 10 per cent off all works. Select from baking and casserole dishes, jugs, jars, bottles and water features. There are also plant holders, bread crocks, mugs and sculptures. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet Robert and watch him throw pieces destined for a firing in May. “I’ve also been working on my new kiln, so people can have a look at that too and see what is being made in the studio,” Robert said. All pottery is woodfired stoneware, producing unique results from wood ash melting onto the pieces. “Each piece has its own marking depending on how the flames have licked around it,” Robert
Spectacular setting: a visit to Gooseneck Pottery is worth the drive for the surrounds and the art, of course. said. “You get results that you can’t get in any other way. Every time you pick up or use a piece, you always appreciate it because it changes depending on the way the light hits the piece.” Gooseneck Pottery is located at 60 KardellaFairbank Road, Kardella, just five minutes from Korumburra, 10 minutes from Leongatha and 25 minutes from Inverloch. For more information, phone 5655 2405 or see the website www.gooseneckpottery.com.au
Horsing around: Sam the pit pony offers a friendly face to visitors.
Visit history COAL Creek is the king of tourist attractions in Korumburra. After a shaky few years, the historical park has had a revival of its fortunes and now seems certain to be around for many years to come.
Creative hands: potter Robert Barron at work on another unique piece.
High fliers: Coal Creek’s resident geese are always a favourite with the many vistors to the popular tourist attraction.
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Big Burger is best THE biggest burger in Gippsland has been in Korumburra for more than a year now and oh, what a difference it has made to the local dining scene. 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,” Brendan Kingwill (BK) revealed. The man who gave his name to the giant treat is famous for his cheesy promotions. Free burgers to the Korumburra Cricket Club had meant word got around town just how good Brendan’s burgers were. Brendan has continued to sponsor local sport and community groups, and is known as the burger king with the big heart. “In our first month in Korumburra we sold more Brendan Burgers than in a whole year in Trafalgar,” Brendan said. Indeed, people have continued to line up for a Brendan Burger ever since they came to town. The quality eatery is located opposite Korumburra Primary School and draws people from all over. While people passing through town never forget their first taste, and have kept coming back for more, locals have taken Brendan Burgers to their
Here ya go: Zoe can’t wait to tuck into a Brendan Burger, served up by Zoe. hearts. 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. 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
tables set up outside, BK’s is a mustvisit 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. 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-made fast food in South Gippsland.
Indian cuisine delights INDIAN cuisine is known for its subtle use of spices, meat and vegetables, with a wide range of delicious curry and vegetarian dishes on offer. The staples of Indian cuisine are rice and a variety of pulses, such as red lentil, chana and a variety of grains. Some of the most important and frequently used spices in Indian cuisine include chilli pepper, black mustard seed, cumin, turmeric, ginger, coriander, and garlic. Popular spice mixes are garam masala which is usually a powder of five or more dried spices, commonly including cardamom, cinnamon, and clove. Most Indian curries are cooked in vegetable oil. The term curry is usually understood to mean “gravy” in India, rather than “spices”. At Divas Tandoori Indian Restaurant in Korumburra, traditional Indian cuisine is practiced. The restaurant’s owner and chef, Jeet has been cooking mouth-watering dishes in Australia for 20 years and believes Korumburra is the perfect place for an Indian restaurant. “It has beautiful surroundings and there is no other Indian restaurant in the area,” Jeet said. Since he opened the eatery a couple of months ago, he has quickly acquired a loyal following and regular clientele. His takeaways are very popular and the dining experience is relaxed. Entrees, main courses and side dishes offer delicious aromas and flavours. Samosa (spiced potatoes and green
peas in pastry) are favourites. Also available are marinated lamb cutlets and the Indian evergreen, tandoori roasted chicken, which is marinated in yoghurt and seasoned with tandoori masala and comes from the Punjab region. Main courses include chicken, lamb and beef done in different style curries. Prawn dishes also come in various styles and the lamb vindaloo is appropriately hot and spicy. It originates from Goa, a former Portuguese colonial outpost and well known as an exotic Indian holiday destination. Saving the best for last, Divas offers an excellent variety of vegetarian dishes. Vegetarianism is practiced among India’s Hindu, Buddhist and Jain communities. Up to 40 per cent of India’s population follows a vegetarian diet and the trend is growing among westernbased cultures. The spinach potatoes (cooked with creamy spinach in spicy gravy) are a real treat. But others, such as seasonal vegetables in curry sauce or the aloo mutter (potatoes and peas in thick gravy) are also delightful. Eaten with rice and/or naan (fine flour bread) it is gratifyingly filling. Side dishes include the highly refreshing raita (yoghurt with cucumber and tomato), mango chutney or Bombay salad. A dessert special is kulfi (Indian ice cream) or gulab jaman, an Indian style cake. Divas offers takeaway as well as dining comfort. It has a family pack and lunch specials available, including a curry in a hurry pack and a lunch platter. For inquiries, bookings or orders, call Divas on 5658 1444.
House of flavour: Indian chef, Jeet (above) has added a new dimension to South Gippsland dining, with the sub-continental cuisine on offer at Diva’s Tandoori Indian Restaurant (below).
“SOUTH COAST TOURIST NEWS”, Autumn Edition, 2009 - PAGE 11
Tasting pioneering days COAL Creek Heritage Village has been developed to preserve the unique history of coal, the development of the South Gippsland railway and the rural settlement which was accelerated by the dairy and timber industries. A visit to Coal Creek will provide an understanding of the industrial, social, cultural and heritage values of pioneering early rural Australia. Coal was accidentally discovered in South Gippsland in 1872, near the present site of Coal Creek, when James Brown’s horse, watering near the creek, kicked a sizeable piece of coal free from the surface. Some 16 years later coal began to be mined. It was the first successful commercial coalfield in Victoria and was responsible for breaking the stranglehold New South Wales had on Victoria’s industries. Since it opened in the early 1970s on 20 acres of natural bush surrounds, the village has welcomed many visitors, who have enjoyed exploring the large collection of artefacts housed in the many heritage buildings in a village-like setting. Since 1974, original buildings have been acquired from around the district and faithfully restored to show the diversity of rural life as it was back at the turn of the century. In recent months the 35-year-old village has been further revamped and renovated, while retaining its original pioneering flavour.
Restaurant chef: Bernard Liversidge, who worked at Melbourne’s famous Windsor Hotel, runs Garrard’s licensed restaurant at Coal Creek. There are several opportunities to experience what it was like in the mining days, such as buying handmade sweets in the General Store, taking a ride on the bush tramway, or having lunch or dinner at Garrard’s Café by the lake. Garrard’s licensed cafe and restaurant was named after the infamous strike miner “Stag” Garrard, whose ashes are buried at Coal Creek. The restaurant’s chef is Bernard Liversidge, who worked at Melbourne’s famous Windsor Hotel. “We serve high quality Provencale cuisine at family prices that will have people coming back for more,”
Popular ride: The bush tram ride and lollipop from the General Store were very popular with young Melbourne visitor Golda Sanchez. The engine driver is Stephen Hurlston, one of the many volunteers at the village. said Bernard, who finished runnerup in the Signature Dish Competition at the recent Jindi Cheese Harvest of Gippsland at Lardner Park, with his Lang Lang loin of lamb served with a glass of Djinta Djinta Classique 2007. Entry to Coal Creek is free, while there is a minimal charge for the bush
tram ride. The visitors’ information centre for the region is in the foyer of the entry building, which offers a wealth of tourism information from accommodation to things to do and see. The village is open from Thursday to Monday, 10am to 4.30pm. Group or school bookings
are available seven days a week. It is located just 45 minutes from Phillip Island, approximately 90 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD and on the direct route to Wilsons Promontory (Melway ref. 512 U10). For more details or bookings, call 5655 1811.
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ONE of the regulars in the Royal Hotel at Loch can’t speak highly enough of Sybil Leris and her establishment. “It’s not a pub,” he said. “It’s a local meeting place for family and friends where you get adopted by Sybil. “That’s why they call her Syb; we’re all her siblings.” Another local says the “gorgeous pub” is the “friendliest place in the world”. But there’s more to the Royal Hotel than good old-fashioned country hospitality. Slowly cooked, European-style seasonal food and good music make this unique pub the place to be in this part of South Gippsland. Sybil said that the colder the weather becomes, the slower the food. Food can be prepared for people with coeliac disease, lactose intolerance, vegans and vegetarians. “Eighty-five per cent of the menu is wheat and gluten free, but always check with the cook,” Sybil said. “I’m happy to talk to the kitchen. “We also have a good selection of local wines as well as from interstate and overseas and offer them by the glass.” Meals are served for Friday dinner, Saturday lunch and dinner and Sunday lunch. Catering is available for celebrations and dinner parties.
The pub is open seven days and also has seven rooms available for you to stay in. On May 16 solo-vocalist and musician, Stevie Paige will perform in the Royal Hotel. “Stevie’s extraordinary,” Sybil said. “She works out of Los Angeles most of the time, but she loves playing in little places like ours when she’s back in Australia.” Bookings are essential for the Saturday evening event, which is a not to be missed occassion.
Community meeting place: Publican Sybil Leris (left) welcomes people from all over. Joining her for drink recently were Barry Leggett, Norfolk England, Valda Kalnina, Latvia, Janis Braunsteins and Jan McBride, both from Melbourne and another Latvian, Andris Kalnina.
Grand old lady: the Royal Hotel has a charm all of its own.
“SOUTH COAST TOURIST NEWS”, Autumn Edition, 2009 - PAGE 13
Date with something sticky IT all began with a competition among friends to determine who had the best sticky date pudding in Loch.
Browse a while: Carringtons assistant, Debbie Cox is surrounded by lovely pieces of furniture and bric a brac in the Loch Village shop.
Charming Carringtons COMPETITIVE pricing and Persian rugs are among the reasons to pop into Carringtons at Loch this autumn. Owner Grahame Hastie said a 40 per cent, Easter period price reduction aims to entice people to make a purchase. “It’s the time to invest money in the older product, because once we get out of this recession environment, the prices will appreciate a bit,” he said. Carringtons will be open every day from Thursday, April 9 until Sunday, April 19, including Good Friday and Easter Sunday. “We always say never be afraid to ask for a better price,” Grahame said. “It’s the only way we can get people to speculate and be interested in buying a product.” Carringtons have a good selection of rugs from Iran that a dealer is disposing of,
with designs ranging from the traditional to tribal. A combination of new and old products makes a visit to Carringtons a fascinating experience. “There is some lovely new reproduction stuff that works extremely well with the old product,” Grahame said. “I am specialising more in good quality English china and making sure there are a lot of tea sets and dinner sets for people to look at.” Lamps, paintings and bric a brac are some of the other delightful items you will find in the Loch Village shop. “It’s a shop you would come in to spend a bit of time and browse. “Most people are overwhelmed when they come in as there is a lot to see in the five rooms. “But they thoroughly enjoy the journey of walking around our shop and viewing everything.”
With a dose of good humour, plasterer Terry Oakley told Victoria Street Gallery’s Carol Hickmott that he made the better sticky date pudding. So a dinner party was organised where Terry and Carol had to supply the dessert. Small pieces of sticky date pudding were placed on numbered plates and then they were tested for colour, texture, aroma and taste. Carol’s husband and Loch Community Development Association president, Steve Hickmott said the result was so close it went to a recount while they waited in another room. “Carol scored 157 points to Terry’s 156. A trophy was handed over to Carol,” he said. “Carol put the trophy in the gallery window on the Sunday morning and within a minute, Sybil Leris from the Royal Hotel in Loch asked, “what sticky date pudding
competition? Mine is the best.” So the Loch Sticky Date Pudding Competition was born. It will be held on Saturday, May 16 in Loch. Other events to coincide with the pudding competition are likely. While Carol was happy to let the South Coast Tourist News try
her delicious sticky date pudding, she was keeping the recipe a secret. Carol said the dessert is a winter treat. Everyone is able to enter in one of the three categories: professional, amateur and junior. Steve said the competition will be held in the Royal Hotel in Loch. “The sticky date
Golden goodness: the Victoria Street Gallery’s Carol Hickmott won the sticky date pudding competition last year in Loch and was happy to show off her prize-winning pudding.
entries will not be eaten, but we hope all of the local eateries will have their own sticky date puddings for sale,” he said. “We also hope to run a street market on the day.” Proceeds from the day will be reinvested in Loch Village. Entries need to be in before midday for judging, with winners announced at the Royal Hotel. “The interest has been huge and all from word of mouth and visitors to the town seeing Carol’s original trophy,” Steve said. “We’re not sure how many entries we will get, but we would like hundreds. “The ladies and gentlemen of the region are surely not going to let the local plasterer win, are they now?” Sticky date pudding entries will be judged on colour, aroma, texture and taste. As for Steve, he’s already tipping who will be the winner. “Of course in my unbiased opinion, Carol’s Sticky Date Pudding will win again hands down as it is the very, very best,” he said of his wife’s cooking creation.
PAGE 14 - “SOUTH COAST TOURIST NEWS”, Autumn Edition, 2009
A magical world INVERLOCH is a naturally beautiful place to explore and there is no better way to do so than on foot. There are numerous short walks around town, or visitors can plot their own longer route by simply seeing where their journey takes them. The Inverloch Ayr Creek Walk is a stroll through native bush and wetlands. Start by following the track near the bridge on Ramsay Boulevard, just past Abbott Street. Follow the creek, passing the original log crossing, on your way to the bridge into Beach Avenue West. Walk up to Toorak Road, turn left and go down past Cashin Street to resume the track on your right. Meander along the bush track over Royal Parade to wetlands rich with birdlife. The easy walk can be continued to the highway, Ullathorne Road or further on to Nesci Court. The Thompson Reserve walk is a sheltered short walk of about 30 minutes through bushland. Watch for the hidden car park on the Tarwin Lower Road, just east of Pier Road. The track winds through bush behind the tennis courts and Thompson Estate sports field. The spectacular Screw Creek Estuary Reserve walk extends for
about two-and-a-half kilometres, starting from a carpark beyond the foreshore camping reserve at the eastern end of The Esplanade. The gravel track passes through coastal bush to Screw Creek, crossing the pristine waterway and reaching up Townsend Bluff, rewarding walkers with superb views over Inverloch and Anderson Inlet. A seat is at the top. More adventurous walkers should consider the 6km Point Smythe Coastal Walk at Venus Bay. The walk takes in superb coastal bush and offers another perspective on Anderson Inlet, with some areas only accessible by boat or on foot. To get to the start of the walk, travel right to the end of Lees Road, that starts on the right hand side as you travel into Venus Bay. The walk takes about two hours but can quite easily become a day trip, with many areas and isolated beaches to explore. A brochure is available from tourist information centres. When your feet are well and truly exhausted, here are some other ideas to making the most of your stay at Inverloch: Pop into the Bunurong Environment Centre and Shell Museum in Ramsay Boulevard, opposite the Esplanade Hotel. The centre has a fascinating shell collection of more than 6000 specimens as well as informative nature books rarely found elsewhere, plus dis-
Majestic place: the Screw Creek Estuary Reserve walk east of Inverloch takes visitors to a pretty place. plays covering environmental and conservation issues; Explore the rock pools around The Caves beach (on the Cape Paterson Road) or along Anderson Inlet, opposite the Kiosk in Ramsay Boulevard; Wander the pristine surf beaches between Inverloch and Cape Paterson. Choose from Shack Bay, The Oaks, Twin Reefs and Undertow Bay; Take a drive along the majestic Bunurong Coastal Drive from Inverloch to Kilcunda via Cape Paterson, along the clifftops, with var-
ious beaches to explore and sights to see along the 40km journey; Take the kids to Rainbow Park in the heart of town to play; See the replica of The Ripple, a sailing vessel that once serviced the district. The boat is on The Esplanade; Wet a fishing line in the inlet or sea; Grab a surfboard and wetsuit, and hit the waves anywhere from Inverloch through to Cape Paterson; and Play at the numerous golf courses around the region.
Here’s hoping: Norm Delbridge of Balnarring dangles a line while visiting Inverloch recently, while sharing a chat with Hugh Goodman of Inverloch.
Whiting still on the bite THE arrival of autumn may signal an end to the hot weather but the state of fishing in Anderson Inlet and offshore of Inverloch is far from cooling down. April and May are the prime months for chasing the popular King George Whiting in the estuary, according to Chris Mo of Rod Bending’s World of Fishing at Inverloch. “The best times for them are the run-out tide or the last hour of the day. Whiting can be taken up from Stevie’s Gutter and the Maher’s Channel stretch into the Horse Shoe,” he said. “The grass beds off the Kiosk (on Ramsay Boulevard) in the late afternoon and into the evening are also good times, either off the beach or in the boat.” Whiting of up to 44cm were caught in the inlet in March and outside grounds have also returned solid bags, particularly holes amongst the reefs and rocky edges off Flat Rocks, and along the coast to Walkerville and around to Waratah Bay. Anglers fishing off the rocks or the ocean should note fishing is banned in the Bunurong Marine Park, which starts just past The Caves beach and extends to Undertow Bay, towards Cape Paterson. The edges of Petrel Rock, off Flat Rocks, are also proven whiting grounds. “Last year, the whiting ran right through to July and August. They’re caught all year round. You just need to know how they’re behaving,” Chris said. Occasional catches of elephant fish have been reported, but anglers are now urged to heed new bag limits of one per person. “They’ve even been caught off the rock wall in the Tarwin River, and around the mouth of the river and the islands around Venus Bay,” Chris said. The past season has been great for flathead, with catches of up to 3kg caught from boat and beach, with plastics and pilchard-like baits proving “dynamite”. “Perch have been caught on small hard bodied lures and grubby type lures or anything that looks like a prawn or Bass yabbies,” Chris said. “You’ve just got to get the ‘twitch, twitch, wind’ technique right to give the lure some action rather than expecting it to happen by itself.” Gummy sharks are still feeding off the surf beaches. One fish weighed 13.5kg cleaned and was landed off the Number Three beach at Venus Bay. “Around the entrance to the inlet after dark and the main channels later in the afternoon and into the early evening are some of the best times for gummies,” Chris said. Pinkies can still be caught around Easter and late into April but are usually out of the inlet by May. Rod Bending’s World of Fishing and Beach Stuff has stores at Inverloch and Venus Bay, offering a full range of tackle, boat and beach gear, with Hobie kayak demonstrations available most weekends. Fishing licences are now available online at www. dpi.vic.gov.au and click on “Victorian Recreational Fishing Licence”.
“SOUTH COAST TOURIST NEWS”, Autumn Edition, 2009 - PAGE 15
Jewel by the sea PORT ALBERT is an all but undiscovered jewel for holiday makers in South Gippsland. The town is one of those places that would be swarming with visitors if it were located on the Great Ocean Road or one of those other oft-travelled tourist routes. Fortunately, it is far from the madding crowds – and for this reason it has remained largely as it would have been in its early days as a sleepy fishing village. The unique beauty of Port Albert is that visitors can choose to do nothing or fill their days with activities galore. Whether stopping by for just the day or planning a longer stay, Port Albert and surrounds offers a variety of activities and attractions. The Old Port Trail is a definite must-do and extraordinarily rich in history. The 5.7km journey from Seabank to the township of Port Albert takes in the area’s history and remains much as it was when settlers first arrived in 1841. The land now passed over by the trail was then a base for Aboriginal people to fish and canoe the inlet, while hunting on the flats. The walk starts at Seabank, the inlet at the end of Old Port Road, off the Yarram-Port Albert Road. Alternatively, visitors can begin their meander at Stockyard Point at Port Albert, opposite the restaurant and fish’n’chip shop.
Seabank is near where explorer Angus McMillan reached the inlet on February 14, 1841 and that spot is marked by a cairn along the walk. The trail passes through heathland and banksia glades to the Old Port Foreshore Road, and continues amongst melaleuca thickets and mangrove swamps. Remains of old crockery and bottles signify the original site of the settlement of Port Albert by the Gippsland Company in May, 1841. The Gippsland Regional Maritime Museum will entertain those with a curious mind. Inside are displays about shipwrecks, early settlement, the shark fishing industry and maritime history, with fascinating accounts and intriguing photos. Located at the corner of Tarraville Road and Bay Street, the museum is within the former Bank of Victoria building. The Port Albert branch of the bank opened on March 28, 1856 and was the first bank in Gippsland. The museum is open daily from 10.30am - 4pm. Here are some more ideas of things to do around Port Albert: • hire a boat or canoe near the jetty and appreciate Port Albert from an unusual angle; • sit down with a drink or a meal at the historic Port Albert Hotel, Customs House Café or the new Wildfish Res-
Port Albert quick facts • • • • • •
Population approximately 300 209 kilometres south-east of Melbourne Original maritime gateway to Gippsland Historic coastal fishing village Gippsland Regional Maritime Museum Award-winning fish and chips
How to get there Port Albert is just over three hours from Melbourne along the South Gippsland Highway, via Korumburra, Leongatha, Foster and Welshpool.
Smooth sailing: Port Albert is a mecca for boaties of all types. taurant and take-away fish’n’chips; • dangle a line for a fish from either the shore or jetties. With the sea surrounding the town, the possibilities are endless, and don’t forget the banks of the nearby Tarra River; • visit the Port Albert Art Gallery in Tarraville Road, just up from the
general store, and ponder the captivating works of reputable artist, Warren Curry; • relax with a cuppa at The General Store and explore the fascinating gallery at the rear; • drive to the coastal communities of Robertsons Beach and Manns
Beach. Follow the signs to Tarraville and then watch for other signs; • dive or snorkel to explore under the sea; or • wander around the historic Alberton Cemetery, on the road between Port Albert and Alberton, on the highway.
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Village atmosphere LOCATED at the Venus Bay shops, the Fishing Village Bar and Cafe has been open for business since September 2008, when the new co-operators Ross and Diana Burns moved in. The premises have been a bar and bistro, as well as a chicken and chips takeaway business for many years and Ross and Diana have successfully put their individual stamp on it. After an initial set-back, which saw a fire destroy the rear of the premises, the business reopened just in time for Melbourne Cup week last year. Ross and Diana, who are Venus Bay residents, were joined by Ross’ brother Peter and Peter’s wife Wei in purchasing the premises and they operate the new business together. Ross and Diana moved to Venus Bay in February 2008 with the intention of ‘semi retiring’ after living for over 30 years in Canberra, where they worked as lawyers and owned their own practice for more than 16 years. Ross and Peter have a past history of working together in the seafood restaurant business in both Sydney and Canberra. The new business has taken its name from the restaurant Peter owned and operated in Canberra in the 1970s, known as ‘The Fishing Village’. The main focus of the Venus Bay business is to “provide patrons with the very best quality seafood, both dine-in and takeaway, in a relaxing bar and café atmosphere,” Ross said. Catering packages and a special event venue hire service are also available. The cafe is fully licensed, with beer on tap and a varied and extensive range of local and Australian wines to choose from. Special event nights are catered for with the popular ‘Pot ‘N Parma’ nights on Wednesday and Thursday. The café also provides breakfasts on Sundays and public holidays from 9am to 12noon.
For several months now, the cafe has offered ‘live music’ every Friday night, with local entertainers including Mat Dalrymple, Saratonin, duo Geoff and Murray, Psycho Wombat, Patricia Freeman with Jane Hobson-Chambers, featuring Patricia’s CD Lady of the Swamp, Tony Watkins and local band Beggs To Differ. Friday Night is Happy Hour, which runs from 6 to 7pm with pots priced at $2.50. Ross and Diana maintain a comfortable ‘village’ style atmosphere that all South Gippsland residents and visitors can relate to. The cafe is open Wednesday and Thursday from 5 to 9pm, Friday and Saturday from 12 ‘til late and Sunday from 9am until early evening. With the ever increasing popularity of the Fishing Village Bar and Café, guests planning to enjoy a great night of good food and entertainment are recommended to book on 5663 7100.
Great publicans: Greg and Elaine Burridge have settled in well and are doing a great job at the Riverview Hotel in Tarwin Lower.
Lively river hotel IT WAS only last October when Greg and Elaine Burridge became the new publicans at the Riverview Hotel in Tarwin Lower, but they’ve settled in quickly.
Village cafe: Diana Burns and assistant Evan Meikle are at the bar of the Fishing Village Bar and Café in Venus Bay, during Friday night’s happy hour.
The hotel has benefited from a few subtle changes and it has been noted that the number of visitors has increased markedly in recent months. Entertainment ranges from live music at night time and music on the deck on Sunday afternoons, which attracts a large number of locals and visitors. Full TAB facilities are also available. “There will be lots of
entertainment over Easter,” Greg said. “We’ll have the Hard Cop band on Saturday night, April 11. Music on the deck on Sunday will be by the Farren Jones Duo, at around 2pm. “There will also be other live entertainment on the weekends during the holidays and during the week we always have in-house music. “The Sunday afternoons have a great atmosphere. People listen to music, have a meal and a drink and generally relax.” The view from the deck, which is protected by plastic sheeting, overlooks the Tarwin River, which meanders down to Anderson Inlet. Ve-
nus Bay is only seven kilometres away and since the bike track was realised, lots of people cycle to the hotel for a spot of lunch. Greg and Elaine are attracting an increasing number of families to the hotel, which was their aim all along, but recreational motorbike riders have also made the hotel a regular lunch stop on weekends. Lunch and dinner are served as a full bistro menu and bar meals are available at reasonable prices, offering great value for money, seven days a week. For more details, contact the hotel on 5663 5211.
“SOUTH COAST TOURIST NEWS”, Autumn Edition, 2009 - PAGE 17
Plenty to do TOORA is just the place to go if you’re looking for a leisurely dose of rural life.
Gift shop: Fenna van der Meulen in the kiosk gift shop.
More park upgrades THERE is always something new and exciting happening at the Venus Bay Caravan Park that benefits visitors. Since owners Fenna and Jacob van der Meulen took over the park on December 5, 2003, almost six years ago, they have steadily renewed, renovated and added more modern cabins to the accommodation services. They also upgraded the basketball and tennis facilities; built the coffee stand; created the giant chess board; and added a barbecue to the recreation area at the front. The barbecue is hidden under the boot of a Morris Minor. Although it is free to use, visitors are encouraged to make a gold coin donation, which goes to the Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club. The park has 20 cabins, which have been upgraded to become fourstar, two bedroom quality holiday accommodation. There is a variety of accommodation options, in addition to the four-star units. It also has budget en suite cabins, en suite powered sites and powered sites. Cabins are equipped with microwave, colour television, heater, fan and cooking equipment, crockery and cutlery. Some come complete with bedding and towels. DVD players and bedding are also available for hire. This year they have installed a new swimming pool and a children’s playground. Fenna also added a gift shop to the kiosk and the couple have become sponsors of the IRB team of the Venus Bay Surf Lifesaving Club. The club competes in a range of aquatic and beach events around Australia each year and is renowned for its competitiveness in IRB racing. The Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) is the fastest and most manoeuvrable piece of rescue equipment used by surf lifesavers. “The surf lifesaving club is very good and we need them,” Jacob said. “Our customers are within walking distance of the No.1 Beach, which is patrolled by club members, and we want them to feel safe and enjoy themselves in a patrolled envi-
ronment.” Erecting the playground was another example of how Jacob and Fenna cater for families in the park. They are members of Family Parks Australia. “We offer a family-orientated holiday park and we have become well known for it. Our facilities cater for family activities. It is why people come and visit us,” Jacob said. The large playground was constructed last July and caters for children of different ages, from the slide for tots to the climbing wall and monkey bar for teens. The swimming pool is another example of how the couple operate. In October last year Jacob discovered the pool had sprung a small leak. Dutch-born, they display a thoroughness that’s part of their background. They decided to dig “a bigger hole” and installed a 92,000-litre pool, twice as large as the old pool. They also created a larger space for lounging around the pool. Fenna started the gift shop last September, during the school holidays, and has seen a growing demand. “We’ve had a great start over summer and we’re now getting ready for winter, with scarves and hats. The gift shop has added interest in the kiosk, which is wellstocked, offering fresh milk and bread, daily newspapers, a range of handy products, as well as LP gas refills, ice, fishing bait and tackle. The caravan park provides great value for money. It has a spacious layout in a shady parkland setting and is suitable for either an extended family beach holiday or a romantic weekend away. It offers a wide range of services. Venus Bay also has lots to offer. It is a great place for surfing, river boating or estuary fishing, but it can also be relaxing just to stay at the park and make use of the many facilities. The kiosk has internet facilities and wireless internet is also available as well as a public phone. A coin-operated laundry with four washing machines includes two dryers. The caravan park is at 113A Jupiter Boulevard, Venus Bay. For inquiries, call 5663 7728.
New playground: Park owner Jacob van der Meulen installed the new playground last July.
With a permanent population of around 550, the town is not very big, but there are good places to stay and plenty to do and see. A bird hide at the Toora Boat Ramp offers the chance to view the Corner Inlet Ramsar Wetland. The wetland covers more than 67,000 hectares and is home to the world’s most southerly population of white mangroves. It is Australia’s southernmost marine embayment
and tidal mudflat system. The wetland hosts a high percentage of Victoria’s migratory water birds, including the eastern curlews as well as the resident pied and sooty oystercatcher. Toora Wind Farm on Silcocks Hill consists of 12 turbines and there are a number of excellent viewing and photography points for those who are so inclined. The town is within easy reach of Wilsons Promontory, recently reopened after Victoria’s devastating bushfires. It’s also a good stepping off point for Agnes Falls, the highest
single span waterfall in Victoria. A lovingly restored turn-of-thecentury house offers bed and breakfast country hospitality, together with stunning views of the Prom. There’s also a motel with a licensed bar and bistro and parking that caters for boats and trailers. Toora’s four-star caravan park also overlooks the Prom. It boasts an indoor heated pool and spa, tennis court, jumping pillow and playground, as well as barbecue facilities and a recreation room with television, open fire, pool and tennis tables. What more could you want?
PAGE 18 - “SOUTH COAST TOURIST NEWS”, Autumn Edition, 2009
Churchill Island Easter Fun Festival VICTORIA’S first farm, Churchill Island, will come alive over the Easter weekend, on Saturday, April 11 and Sunday, April 12.
Well trained: there will be a demonstration of working dogs at the Easter Festival.
Easy now: Indian runner ducks entertain on Churchill Island.
It will be a celebration of heritage farming, food and wine, games and old fashioned fun that will keep the whole family entertained. Activities will include wagon rides, puppet shows, old time games; face painting, craft activities and a massive Easter egg hunt, and are just some of the things to look forward to. Step back in time to see Clydesdale horses ‘strutting their stuff’ in the paddocks, ploughing, hay making and generally demonstrating their strengths and skills. Stop for a pat and chat to their owners as you wander through the festival. You will also see spinners, blacksmith demonstrations, working sheep dogs, bakers’ oven, hand shearing and much more! Enjoy live music and entertainment, talk to the animals, and, when it’s time for a meal, select from a great range of local food stalls or enjoy a glass of wine as you look across the bay from the Churchill Island café. All entertainment is included in the festival entry. With spectacular scenery and plenty of space to relax, there is no better place to enjoy this Easter weekend!
10am to 5 pm. Entry is $10 for adults, $5 children, $25 family and $7 concession, or free entry with a valid 3 Parks Pass. Tickets are available at all Phillip Island Nature Park outlets and Information Centres. Ask for a Churchill Island ticket or for a 3 Parks Pass. Tickets are also available on www. penguins.org.au. Churchill Island is accessible by bridge from Phillip Island - parking is free. All revenue supports Churchill Island heritage farm. No dogs or BYO alcohol allowed. General information: Call 03 5951 2823 or visit www.penguins.org.au
Other things to do. Step back in time to this historic island farm. Churchill Island features
heritage buildings and gardens, walking tracks and much more. • Learn about Churchill Island’s fascinating history in the Visitor Centre. • Stroll through the historic buildings and working farm. • Meet the farm animals including clydesdale horses, highland cattle, sheep, ducks, chickens and peacocks. • Enjoy a meal in the licensed Churchill Island café which has spectacular bay views. • Walk or cycle around the island and visit Grant’s monument. • Take home goodies from the Farm Shop. • Enjoy one of the many events and markets. • Churchill Island is the perfect location for functions and weddings.
Details It’s on Saturday April 11 and Sunday 12, 2009
Peaceful garden: visitors look through the cottage garden at the old homestead.
Shearing skills: the sheep shearing demonstration will be well received at the festival.
“SOUTH COAST TOURIST NEWS”, Autumn Edition, 2009 - PAGE 19
Travel inspiration FAIRBANK’S Emily Koenders derives much of her inspiration from her travel experiences, and her Easter exhibition is no exception. Emily travelled large parts of New South Wales recently and visited the Norman Lindsay Gallery at Faulconbridge and Sydney’s famous Taronga Zoo in Mosman, which overlooks the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. “The gallery is such a great inspiration, just to be around his art,” Emily said. “It makes you feel being an artist is something very special.” The Lindsay property is the home of the Magic Pudding (written in 1918) and displays the works of Lindsay (1879-1969) as an artist and a writer. As a highly respected wildlife artist, Emily is passionate about animals, and visiting Taronga Zoo also proved a major highlight. “I took photographs of the animals, but much of what I do is to enjoy the moment and take in the essence of what those wonderful animals are.
New range of work: Emily Koenders will present a new range of her wildlife art at her Fairbank studio and gallery during Easter. It’s about watching and observing them,” Emily said. She visited the gorilla enclosure and walked away hugely touched by these noble primates. “The way they look at you, they look directly into your soul. It’s very piercing,” she said.
Another highlight was the free flight bird show, which features a great variety of feathered creatures. Emily also got a close-up meeting with a Powerful Owl, which no doubt will become the subject of one of her paintings. Emily’s Easter exhibi-
tion is called Feathers of Autumn and will be held from April 4 to26. Gallery opening hours are from 11am to 5pm. A new range of her well-liked portrait studies of wildlife will be on display and for sale. Recent paintings include drawings of koalas and platypus. Emily’s palette can be described as colourful, which she may well owe to her distant relative Vincent van Gogh. More than two years ago, Emily learned that her father John Koenders was a direct descendant of the Dutch master. The magic of her colours has attracted many collectors in Australia and overseas, who have bought her artwork. Her gallery can be reached either from the South Gippsland Highway at the Ruby turn-off or from Leongatha by taking the Wild Dog Valley Road and turning left into Fairbank Road. For further information, contact Emily on 5662 5808.
Vincent documented FROM the moment more than two years ago South Gippsland artists John and Di Koenders learned that John was a direct descendant of Dutch master, Vincent van Gogh, their lives were virtually turned upside down. Research confirmed John was the great-great-nephew of Vincent, which led them to undertake an unforgettable journey into Van Gogh’s turbulent life. Their ‘journey of discovery’ earlier last year took them to England, The Netherlands, Belgium and France and will result in a major documentary ready for screening later this year. Australian actor Charles ‘Bud’ Tingwell, a friend and great fan of their art, will be narrating the documentary. Di and John are also negotiating with Dutch mega-entertainer Andre Rieu to include his music on the soundtrack. They met Rieu at last year’s concert in Melbourne. John and Di own and operate their Mayfield Gallery in Arawata. It is their working studio as well as their gallery. Having painted professionally for 40 years, their historic relationship to Vincent has added provenance and value to their artworks. Di and John are realist artists and although their painting style is different to their famous ancestor, they nevertheless are extremely proud and passionate about their heritage. Their Easter exhibition will have lots of new works for sale, Victorian landscapes and several local seascapes by John and wildlife paintings by Di, including pastels of birds and possums.
Called Autumn’s Beauty, the exhibition will run from April 4 to 26 on all Easter Days and Good Friday. “It will commemorate the animals that suffered during the bushfires,” Di said. “Our hearts are with the people and the animals and the scarred landscape. “The scenery is always in our minds,” John said. “Our paintings truly feel that way.” The gallery will be open daily, from 10am to 5pm, and visitors are welcomed with country-style hospitality. A glass of wine, cup of tea or coffee can be enjoyed, while viewing the paintings and soaking up the ambience of the gallery. For enquiries, call Di or John on 5659 8262 or check their website on artistsaustralia.com.au.
New range: Arawata artists John and Di Koenders will show many new paintings at their Mayfield Gallery in Fairbank Road over Easter.
PAGE 20 - “SOUTH COAST TOURIST NEWS”, Autumn Edition, 2009
STONY Creek Go Karts and Cafe has hosted about 18,000 driving sessions since it opened in September last year. And everyone who walks out of the complex on the South Gippsland Highway has a smile on their face. Among those who’ve enjoyed a spin on the 880m track so far are a 77-year-old woman and an 83-yearold man who hadn’t driven a go kart for 50 years. There are also twin seaters allowing young children the opportunity to experience the go kart thrill. Stony Creek Go Kart’s Kym Holness said the track has more than 350 members who bring their own go kart to use on the track. “People specifically like the track
because it is a proper race track with proper race go karts,” he said. “It’s not just a tiny indoor track or jammed into the corner of an outdoor track.” An on-site cafe provides a coffee most of the time and a full range of options at peak times such as weekends. The cafe offers panoramic views of the track and is the ideal spot for non-go karters to watch the action. Inside there are also big plasma screens to watch television and catch the race track action. Daytona race driving simulator, air hockey table and other games machines provide further entertainment options. Stony Creek Go Karts specialises in birthday parties and group bookings for up to 50 people.
Driving thrill: go karters do their laps at the Stony Creek Go Kart track.
The undulating racing track has 10 right turns and nine left turns that are sure to create a thrill for both novice and experienced drivers. Hire karts are all Phoenix Endurance Class. They boast a nine horsepower Honda engine that can reach more than 60km. Fully adjustable seats, centrifugal clutch system and a belt drive for a smoother ride are among their features. Helmets and fully padded suits are provided for the safety of patrons. An expensive state-of-the-art remote control shut down system was installed at the go kart track to decrease accident risk. Stony Creek Go Karts are open every day from 10am on the South Gippsland Highway.
Popular destination: the Stony Creek Go Kart track has hosted more than 18,000 sessions since it opened
Holiday fun: hire a go kart and take it for a spin on the 880 metre track.