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Regional Victoria Map

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Traveller Tips

Traveller Tips

Hit the road on a touring route, make your own way around, or follow our itinerary and see the wonders of Victoria for yourself.

By Car

Travel about an hour west of Melbourne to the delightful coastal region of 1 Geelong and the Bellarine and experience scenic beaches, wineries and some amazing local produce.

Travel further west on a scenic road trip (approximately 3.5 hours) to the 2 Grampians region to get up close to nature.

For more outdoor adventures why not visit the 3 High Country.

By Train

Catch a V/Line train service from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station to Lilydale and find yourself in the 4 Yarra Valley wine region, approximately seventy minutes from Melbourne.

Visit Victoria’s spa and wellness capital, 5 Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges, by hopping on a V/Line train service from Southern Cross Station to Woodend then catching a coach to the region.

Murray Sunset National Park

Wyperfeld National Park Hattah-Kulkyne

National Park

Ouyen

SUNRAYSIA HWY

Swan Hill

Kerang

Warracknabeal

WIMMERA HWY

Lower Glenelg National Park

Portland Horsham

Stawell

2 Halls Gap

Grampians National Park Ararat

Hamilton

GLENELG HWY

St Arnaud

CALDER Maryborough FWY

Castlemaine

The Goldfields

5 Daylesford 10

WESTERN FWY

Ballarat

Port Fairy

Warrnambool

Port Campbell 1

Camperdown Geelong Geelong and The Bellarine Colac PRINCES HWY WEST Great Otway National Park 6 Lorne Torquay Mornington Peninsula

Apollo Bay

Great Ocean Road

Victoria

12 EchucaEchuca Albury Yarrawonga Rutherglen Albury Yarrawonga Rutherglen WodongaWodonga BeechworthBeechworth SheppartonShepparton WangarattaWangaratta CorryongCorryong

GOULBURN VALLEY GOULBURN VALLEY BenallaBenalla Alpine Alpine FWY FWY National Park National Park Bendigo HUME HUME BrightKing Valley Mt Bu alo King Valley Mt Bu alo Mt BeautyBright Mt Beauty FWY FWY National ParkNational Park CALDER 3

NORTHERN HWY NORTHERN HWY SeymourSeymour MansfieldMansfield High CountryHigh Country Omeo Omeo Alexandra AlpineAlexandra Alpine National Park National Park Snowy RiverSnowy River Snowy RiverSnowy River National Park Park National Park Park

4

Yarra Valley andYarra Valley and GippslandGippsland MELBOURNE Dandenong Ranges MELBOURNE Dandenong Ranges Bairnsdale PRINCES HWY Bairnsdale PRINCES HWY OrbostOrbost EAST EAST Lakes EntranceLakes Entrance

MallacootaMallacoota

Geelong andGeelong and The BellarineThe Bellarine 7

Torquay

Mornington Peninsula Mornington Peninsula 8 PhillipPhillip IslandIsland

TraralgonWarragul TraralgonWarragul

Loch

Loch LeongathaLeongatha InverlochInverloch 9

Sale Sale Ninety Mile BeachNinety Mile Beach

0 250

N

5025

N

7550 100 km75 100 km

Wilsons PromontoryWilsons Promontory National Park National Park

0 0 25 25 50 50 75 75 100 mi100 mi

There is no shortage of great dining options in the region. Geelong must-visits include Aaron Turner’s acclaimed Igni and the impressive Tulip. Head for drinks at Little Malop Street, where you’ll find the region’s top drops at Geelong Wine Cellar, enjoy cocktails at 18th Amendment Bar and join the sing-along at the nearby Piano Bar. The area’s vineyards will also please foodies. Try Jack Rabbit Restaurant and The Shed at Terindah Hotel book a table in the grand dining room for French-inspired fare. Lifeguard Bollards at Eastern Beach Reserve, Geelong

Geelong and the Bellarine

An easy hour’s drive from Melbourne, Geelong and the Bellarine is an ideal destination for a day trip, weekend getaway or extended holiday.

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Eat

Restaurant, Oakdene Vineyards Estate. At Queenscliff’s Vue Grand Beach House, Geelong

Stay

Make a weekend of it and stay at one of the region’s delightful accommodation options. In Geelong, rest your head at Anchor Geelong where boho chic blends with Hamptons style. Luxury coastal escapes, like Lon Retreat and Point Campbell House, are plentiful on the Bellarine.

Play

Set out on an adventure and explore the nearby You Yangs Regional Park. The go-to place for mountain biking, the park has trails suitable for all abilities, with two designated mountain bike areas and 50 kilometres of track. If you’ve got little ones, be sure to check out MoPA: Museum of Play and Art. The kids are sure to enjoy the immersive and interactive exhibits that focus on inspiring their creativity through play-based learning.

Tip: Stop by recently transformed The Beach House Restaurant in Geelong for a great meal and view.

+visitvictoria.com/ geelongbellarine

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The region has become such a popular destination with its wineries, producers and beaches, there was one thing missing: “It didn’t have a distillery.”

Russ Watson, Craig Michael & Billy, Bellarine Distillery Chris McConville

Take A Sip of the

Bellarine

Russell Watson, distiller

On a sunny day, the old farm shed is a hive of activity. “The guys behind the bar can make up to 500 cocktails in an afternoon,” says Russell Watson. He’s the character behind Bellarine Distillery and its bar and sales space, The Whiskery, set in a tree-shaded idyll.

A long-time resident of the region, it was a visit to Scotland in 2012 that inspired Watson to open the Bellarine’s first distillery. Although

Chris McConville

the region had become a popular destination with its wineries, producers and beaches, there was one thing missing: “It didn’t have a distillery.”

Of course, it takes years to release a whisky, and so the first step was a suite of four gins. “All of them are distinctly different,” says Watson. “They’re not one gin that’s just been tweaked.” They’re also named after his dogs: Rosey & the Rabbits, for example, is aged in pinot noir barrels from neighbouring winery Scotchmans Hill, while Trooper & the Roo combines roasted wattleseeds with organic cacao, which gives it “a slightly chocolatey aftertaste”.

Now, the first whisky is almost ready. “The whiskies will have different taste profiles,” says Russell, “but they’ll all be classic Scottish styles, and all quite small runs.” And they’ll only be available in the distillery, so anyone who wants a sample should organise a visit.

+ bellarinedistillery.com.au + visitvictoria.com/geelong

Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges Meet the passionate people who call the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges home.

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The chef: Mark Ebbles – TarraWarra

Mark Ebbles grew up on a farm in Toolangi, Yarra Valley - just up the road from where he now heads up the kitchen at TarraWarra Estate. Whilst a hyper local lad, his food training has been international with years spent in kitchens such as Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck.

A considered mix of vegan chef, tiny house owner and plant-based recipe creator his respect for vegetables is equal to the way most apply to fish and meats. The result? Plates of balanced, extraordinary food experiences. With much of the produce straight from the TarraWarra kitchen garden and protein from local farmers, this is a truly unique Yarra Valley food story.

The distiller: Cameron Mackenzie

For Four Pillars distiller and co-founder Cameron Mackenzie there’s never a dull moment: “Even though it’s a nice quiet place to live there’s always something going on.” Mackenzie spent 10 years at Punt Road Wines and Giant Steps before waking up one day and realising he’d moved too far away from what he really loved – working with his hands. So, in 2014 he established the Four Pillars brand with a couple of ginloving mates and the rest is history.

The cheese maker: Jack Holman

Cheesemaker Jack Holman’s Stone and Crow CheeseCompany is based at Rob Dolan Wines. Jack may be better known for his previous role as Head Cheesemaker at Yarra Valley Dairy for the past 12 years, making him an integral (and much lauded) part of the fabric of the Yarra Valley food scene.

Ever the innovator, Jack sees Stone and Crow as an opportunity to create his own styles without boundaries, an opportunity to be truly experimental. His core range of cheeses are readily available in the cellar door to take home or enjoy as part of a platter on site. Try the Galactic – a 1-2 week old cow’s milk cheese – think soft and delicate with bread flavours and perfect with that glass of wine you’re after.

Tip: On your way to the Yarra Valley, stop for a walk at Sherbrooke Falls. It’s the same length as nearby 1,000 steps Kokoda Track Memorial Walk, but not as busy.

+visitvictoria.com/yarravalley

Mark Ebbles Tim Grey

Cameron Mackenzie Anson Smart

Jack Holman

Great Ocean Road

Road trip

Whether you want to get active, linger over coffee in a beachside cafe, taste wines in acclaimed vineyards or explore dramatic scenery, you’ll find it on the Great Ocean Road.

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Hit the Road

From Melbourne, drive across the Westgate towards the chilled-out seaside town of Torquay. With its coastal-chic flair, Ginger Monkey is a top place for coffee and breakfast before an invigorating walk along Bells Beach.

Continue driving along the coast to reveal sweeping ocean vistas and interesting architecture, including the eye-catching Pole House at Fairhaven. Stop at Lorne where Teddy’s Lookout provides supreme views of the ocean. Further along, sleepy Wye River is the perfect stopping point for lunch. Wye General Store stocks gourmet goods and is a friendly spot to pick up provisions for a picnic by the sea. Forty minutes away is Apollo Bay, where there’s a huge variety of accommodation, from retro sea shacks to luxury villas.

The next day, continue west along the Great Ocean Road and take the diversion to the Instagram-worthy Cape Otway Lightstation before taking in the must see Twelve Apostles before enjoying a night in Warrnambool to discover the shipwreck history at Flagstaff Hill Sound and Light Show.

Cape Otway Lighthouse

Continue West as you take in the natural wonders of Tower Hill, be spoilt for choice for a bite to eat in Port Fairy before heading to Portland in search of a whale and to explore the World Heritage Listed Budj Bim Cultural Landscape.

Tip: Squeeze in a visit to Warrnambool’s Deep Blue Hotel and Hot Springs, the perfect treat after a long drive.

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Mornington Peninsula

Breathe in fresh sea air, sample innovative local cuisine and soak up the alfresco lifestyle of the Mornington Peninsula.

Jackalope Hotel Emily Floyd

Peninsula Hot Springs

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Eat

The Mornington Peninsula is home to world-class chefs working with quality seasonal offerings, many of them at the area’s wineries. Try Montalto Restaurant, Laura at Pt Leo Estate and The Dining Room at Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill. A family-friendly alternative is Red Gum BBQ, which serves up authentic, slow-smoked cooking from America’s south. Perhaps an all-day bistro bar and cellar door is the vibe you are after. Visit Red Hill’s Many Little and sit in the garden to enjoy enviable views of adjoining farmland.

Stay

If you are planning a luxury stay on the Peninsula, you can’t go past Jackalope Hotel or Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill. Try Polperro Farmhouse for a premium self-contained option that includes three bedrooms, fully equipped kitchen, open fireplace and expansive outdoor spaces. If you’re a golf enthusiast, look no further than RACV Cape Schanck Resort, known for its dramatic landscape, exquisite food and championship 18-hole golf course.

Play

The award-winning Peninsula Hot Springs, with its day spa and baths of natural mineral water, is an idyllic setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. There is a strong arts scene on the Peninsula, best enjoyed outdoors. Visit McClelland Sculpture Park + Gallery or Pt Leo Estate, where there are 60 works by local and international artists. If you want to soar high, try Arthurs Seat Eagle offering uninterrupted scenic views from a gondola.

Tip: Do a tasting of its fine spirits and liqueurs or take a gin masterclass at Bass & Flinders Distillery.

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morningtonpeninsula

Phillip Island

See wildlife in its natural habitat and soak up all the beautiful surroundings of Phillip Island.

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Fun for Everyone

There’s plenty for the whole family to enjoy, from Panny’s Phillip Island Chocolate Factory with its delicious sweet treats to A Maze’N Things, where the kids can let loose among the mazes, mini golf and Magic Manor. For a virtual trip to the Southern Ocean, check out the Antarctic Journey attraction at the Nobbies Centre. Here, you can take a deep-sea adventure from the comfort of land.

Local Food and Brews

Enjoy the region’s fresh seafood and locally sourced produce with a side of some spectacular ocean views. Dine with an outlook of the Southern Ocean at The Cape Kitchen or Saltwater Phillip Island. For a cold one, try Ocean Reach Brewing, where the craft beers are poured straight from the tap and the food van serves up brew-friendly bites. Delicious cool-climate wines can be enjoyed at nearby Purple Hen Wines or Phillip Island Winery, where matched plates are designed to be shared.

Wildlife Encounters

Phillip Island Nature Parks has a host of wildlife experiences just waiting to be explored. Enjoy the island’s famous Penguin Parade and watch on as they waddle up the beach each evening. There are koalas, too. Visit the Koala

The Cape Kitchen Phillip Island Glamping

Conservation Centre and wander woodland boardwalks to see them dozing in the trees. Twitchers can visit the island in spring to see shearwater birds arrive from Alaska to breed.

Camp in Comfort

Just walking distance from one of Phillip Island’s pristine north facing beaches is Phillip Island Glamping, which offers outdoor accommodation with all the bells and whistles. Or choose Sheltered Glamping located on private farmland, where you will find ten off grid, solar powered bell and safaristyle tents offering a memorable night below the stars.

Tip: For a boutique Island experience book your escape at Five Acres Farm Stay.

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phillipisland

Gippsland

Stretch your legs in some of Victoria’s most spectacular national parks, be charmed by tiny towns and indulge in gourmet fresh produce in Gippsland.

Raymond Island

Pier 70 - Paynesville Josie Withers

Venture Out - Lakes Entrance Jessica Shapiro

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Eat

Overlooking Raymond Island in Paynesville, Sardine Eatery + Bar’s menu, by award-winning chef Mark Briggs, showcases Gippsland’s finest produce. Pier 70 in Paynesville is another one not to be missed. En route to Paynesville be sure to stop in Lindenow for lunch at Long Paddock, a cafe in a historic bakery that plates up exquisite food using local ingredients.

Stay

Paynesville offers accommodation for all styles of traveller. Relax with a waterfront view at Captains Cove Resort, set on the canals on the Gippsland Lakes. Each apartment has its own private jetty, and a boardwalk leads to the village, cafes and restaurants just a relaxing stroll away.

Play

Raymond Island offers some of the best koala spotting around. Jump on a ferry from Paynesville then hire a bike to ride the Koala Trail. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled, as there is a spectacular array of other native animals, including echidnas, kangaroos and coastal birds. There’s more great cycling on the scenic Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail.

Tip: Paddle the Lakes to spot seals & dolphins with Venture Out SUP & Kayaking at Lakes Entrance.

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The Taste of Gippsland

Mark Briggs, chef

“The move here came after visiting the area and being inspired by the amazing food bowl that is East Gippsland.”

Sardine Eatery + Bar, Paynesville Caitlin Mills

Mark Briggs

On the waterfront at Paynesville, one of Gippsland’s picturesque villages, sits a worldclass restaurant.

Sardine Eatery + Bar has received many accolades since it opened in 2017 – hats in the Good Food Guide, excellent reviews – but chef and owner Mark Briggs, who worked at Michelin-starred restaurants in the UK and Vue de monde in Melbourne, keeps things close to home.

His commitment to the region is evident in the ever-changing menu. Inspired by seafood from Lakes Entrance, you can always find sardines there. “These little fish are under-utilised and often regarded as bait,” says Briggs. “What a waste.”

Paynesville Caitlin Mills You might also find local whitebait or flathead. Away from the ocean’s offerings, there could be pork from Skylor Park or lamb grown in nearby Munro. Even the butter served with the sourdough is made using Gippsland Jersey milk.

Not surprisingly, it was the high quality of the local produce that initially drew Briggs to the area: “The move here came after visiting the area and being inspired by the amazing food bowl that is East Gippsland.”

+visitvictoria.com/gippsland

+sardineeaterybar.com

The Perfect Stay

For romantics, Clifftop at Hepburn is the perfect place to escape with a loved one. Constructed out of natural materials, these private luxury villas feature soaking tubs and full-height windows that frame breathtaking views of the native bushland below. For something cosy and elegant, try Lake House, luxurious accommodation on the lake in Daylesford, and Acre of Roses, a micro flower farm and luxury wellness accommodation that dates back to the 1860s.

Healing Waters

Located in the middle of one of Australia’s largest concentration of mineral springs, Hepburn Springs has a number of bathhouses perfect for rejuvenating both body and mind. Indulge in hydrotherapy, massage and body treatments at the beautifully restored Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa.

Farm to Table

The region is home to some seriously good produce. Try Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm, where you’ll not only sample a delicious lunch straight from the garden, but also experience the extraordinary property with European- style gardens and original stone buildings surrounded by fields of lavender. Hidden away in the Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens is Wombat Hill House, which serves up simple but wholesome food from the kitchen garden.

Tip:Try an afternoon of tastings at Daylesford Cider Company. The beautiful tavern-style cellar door is a great stop on a sunny day.

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Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges

Take time out and invigorate your body and soul amid spectacular forests, natural mineral waters and historic villages of this region.

Bendigo

With its mix of sidewalk cafes, art galleries and antique stores, the vibrant gold rush town of Bendigo has a lot to offer.

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Experience Bendigo

9amStart by fuelling your day at Harvest Food & Wine, a delightful all-day eatery in one of Bendigo’s View Street Arts Precinct. Fresh pastries are handmade daily.

10amIt’s a destination in its own right, so take time to explore Bendigo Art Gallery. There are several impressive permanent collections, alongside current exhibition Piinpi: Contemporary Indigenous Fashion.

12pmPick up a delicious toasty from Ghosty Toasty. Using sourdough from Blumes Historic Bakery, every grilled sandwich is loaded with local artisan cheese, meats, jams and oils. 1pm Venture out to the various wineries, known for their cool-climate shiraz, on Bendigo’s doorstep. Try the likes of LynneVale Estate, BlackJack Wines and Sandhurst Ridge Winery.

3pm Complete the cellar door hopping at the Sutton Grange Winery with some more wine tasting and a regional tasting platter.

Tip:Looking to make a night of it? Try glamping at Balgownie Estate, where you’ll sleep in luxury bell tents overlooking the vines.

+visitvictoria.com/bendigo

Ghosty Toasty

Piinpi – Bendigo Art Gallery

Rediscover Mitchelton, where a warm welcome awaits.

Situated on the banks of the beautiful Goulburn River, Mitchelton is the ideal setting for a perfect escape.

Enjoy relaxed regional dining at The Muse Restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner every day. Taste our award-winning wines at the Cellar Door open daily from 10am-4pm. Unwind and escape with a stay in our luxury Hotel. Restore your mind and body with a treatment in the Day Spa. Explore the beautiful grounds with stunning river and vineyard views at every turn.

MENTION THIS AD WHEN BOOKING A TABLE FOR LUNCH OR DINNER AT THE MUSE RESTAURANT AND RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY GLASS OF MITCHELTON NV CUVÉE SPARKLING ON ARRIVAL*

*Not valid with any other dining offer. Diners must be aged 18 years or more to receive complimentary wine. Valid for bookings from 1 December 2020 until 1 February 2021.

Open 7 days from 8am til late Phone (03) 5736 2222 or visit www.mitchelton.com.au 470 Mitchellstown Road, Nagambie

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Ballarat

David Mitchener

From a burgeoning culinary scene to historic and contemporary art, enjoy this and more just 90 minutes from melbourne.

Johnny Alloo

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Fuel the Day

Get in early and enjoy a brunch worth driving for at one of Ballarat’s many cafe options. Local favourite Johnny Alloo offers one of the best coffees in town and can fill your belly with the likes of quinoa bircher or a classic bacon and egg roll made with local Salt Kitchen bacon.

Immerse Yourself in Art

Stop by the Art Gallery of Ballarat, Australia’s oldest regional gallery, and explore the extensive permanent collections and contemporary exhibitions. The heritage-listed gallery is quite impressive in itself and is one of the oldest purpose-built galleries in the country.

Feed the Kangaroos

Get up close to more than a hundred free-roaming kangaroos that call the Ballarat Wildlife Park home. They’re used to human interaction and are very friendly, so visitors can feed them by hand. While you’re there, you can also see meerkats, crocodiles and tigers.

Dine in Style

Take a seat at ever-so-stylish Lola at The Provincial Hotel Ballarat, offering European-style dining using locally sourced produce at lunch and dinner on the weekend. For something a little more family friendly try The Forge Pizzeria, with its woodfired pizzas, pasta and salads.

Tip: Quench your thirst at local watering hole Aunty Jacks, which serves great food and their own beers brewed on site.

+visitvictoria.com/ballarat

Grampians

Take a hike and be enchanted and inspired by the striking landscapes of the Grampians region.

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Grampians Peaks Trail

The first stage of the Grampians Peaks Trail enables hikers to venture through some of the region’s most popular areas. Highlights include the ancient rock features of the Grand Canyon, views from the Pinnacle Lookout and the spectacular vista of mountain peaks from the top of Mount Rosea. This is a one-way, three-day loop walk from Halls Gap to Borough Huts and back, covering a total of 33 kilometres.

The Pinnacle Lookout

The two kilometre hike to The Pinnacle rewards walkers with spectacular views, passing Grand Canyon and Silent Street on the way. Choose from two different routes up – an easy to medium option from Sundial Carpark or a more challenging climb from Wonderland Carpark.

Taste the Region

Five Ducks Farm hand craft small batches of delicious preserves from the fruit grown on their tiny farm, at the foot of the Grampians National Park. They also select and use produce from other local Grampians growers. A range of seasonal preserves, honey and homemade ice-cream are available direct through the farm gate shop at Pomonal and in a growing number of local cafes, wineries and general stores in the region. Boroka Lookout over Halls Gap

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Reed Lookout

From the summit of Reed Lookout you will enjoy stunning views over the entire Victoria Valley, Victoria Range, Serra Range, Lake Wartook and the Mt Difficult Range. The viewing platform is a popular spot to watch the sunset over the mountains and snap the perfect pink and purple hues. The path to the lookout is well maintained and fully accessible by wheelchair.

Add in the two kilometre walk to The Balconies for panoramic views of Victoria Valley and the surrounding ranges.

Tip: If you’ve got a bit of extra time in the region, explore the nearby Silo Art Trail for some impressive pieces.

+visitvictoria.com/grampians

Art of the Grampians

James McMurtrie, glass artist

Fire Is. Inspired by the Grampians bushfire

"I always liked how the work is created almost instantaneously – it doesn’t take long to get a result"

The view from James McMurtrie's studio is one most would envy. “I can see the mountains from here,” he says.

Situated in Pomonal, his work space sits below Mount William Range. Throughout the day, the landscape changes colour, and as the seasons change so does the outlook. Spring, for instance, brings the hues of new life: green shoots on trees and a carpet of wildflowers.

“I did ceramic design at Chisholm Institute [in Melbourne], and majored in glass,” explains McMurtrie of his long love of the medium. “I always liked how the work is created almost instantaneously – it doesn’t take long to get a result.” Now, he spends about four days each week blowing glass to create bowls, vases, sculptural pieces and lighting. “Depending on the size of the works we can make anywhere between five and 20 pieces a week,” he says, adding that he is often commissioned to create pieces for homes and businesses.

“Most of the time though we make our own work, and we send it to a number of galleries around the country. But we have our own gallery here, too.”

Whenever he’s working, visitors are free to drop in and watch him work. “Just look for the big sign out on the road,” he says.

+ jamesmcmurtrie.com.au + visitvictoria.com/grampians

James McMurtrie

The Murray

Replenish the soul, reconnect with nature and experience the best of outdoor life in the vibrant Murray River region.

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Create Your Own Adventure

The freedom of the river means you can stick to a tight itinerary or sit back and relax – it’s entirely up to you. For those who like a bit more structure, Mildura Houseboats offers three to seven day itineraries for exploring this magnificent waterway. Otherwise, simply pick a nice spot and anchor for a day or three and enjoy the serenity.

Reconnect with Nature

The surrounding region is nothing short of beautiful, with some of the most diverse landscapes in the world. Take in mountains, river gum forests, the outback, golden limestone cliffs, plains, lakes and the river’s mouth. You can also spot plenty of wildlife in these parts, with platypus, wombats, kangaroos and hundreds of species of native birds calling the region home.

Experience History

During its glory days, the three story high Port of Echuca wharf as a key river Port, turned over 240 steamers a year. Now the restored Port of Echuca is home to the Port of Echuca Discovery Centre and many paddlesteamers including the PS Emmylou. The world’s only wood-fired cruising paddle steamer, the PS Emmylou takes passengers to some of the most pristine and intact ecological forests along with sites of Aboriginal significance. The nine cabin steamer offers a luxury experience like no other and a unique way to take in the best of the region.

Meet the Makers

Part of Australia’s food bowl, chefs around the country know the fresh produce from The Murray is second to none. Add award-winning wines, boutique brews and innovative eateries in the towns along the river and you’re in a food lover’s paradise. Head along to the weekend Farmers’ Markets and spend the morning browsing the stalls, chatting to the makers and growers, and stocking up for lunch with fresh seasonal fruit and veggies, baked goods, meats, cheeses, olives, eggs, jam, honey and so much more.

Tip: Head to the Pioneer Settlement in Swan Hill for the Heartbeat of the Murray Laser Light Spectacular. You'll experience the story of the Murray and be transported back 30 million years, before travelling through time to the Murray River as we know it.

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themurray

High Country

Mount Buffalo David Kirkland

Head to where stunning landscapes and welcoming villages offer adventure and relaxation.

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Go Cycling

Double your fun on a two-wheel tour of alpine landscapes and historic villages, taking in top restaurants, wineries, farm gates and farmers’ markets. Follow some of the region’s rail trails or roll along the Pedal to Produce cycling routes.

Under the Stars

Get the five-star treatment sleeping out in nature on a glamping weekend. Stay in a luxurious bell tent at Cofield Wines in the heart of the Rutherglen wine region and let Grapevine Glamping take care of everything.

Endless Trails

There's no better way to unlock the secrets of the High Country than on your own two feet. Whether you choose a leisurely village stroll around historic Beechworth or scenic Bright, or step it up with a challenging wilderness hike at Mt Buller, Falls Creek or Mt Hotham, you'll be spoilt for choice. One thing's for sure though, there's an adventure waiting around every corner.

The Wine is Fine

Grab your best wine buddies and head to Rutherglen, one of Victoria’s premier wine regions and the home of muscat in Australia. Some favourite wineries include All Saints Estate, Chambers Rosewood Vineyards and Stanton & Killeen Wines.

Local Flavour

Shoot the ‘bries’ (get it?) with legendary producers Milawa Cheese and Tolpuddle Goat Cheese and Farm Foods. Branch out with olives, mustard and other munchies at The Epicurean Centre at Brown Brothers and treat yourself to nature’s nectar at Beechworth Honey.

Tip: For a taste of the region, Rutherglen’s Thousand Pound Wine Bar & Store pairs affordable local wines with a great menu that encompasses bar snacks and more substantial meals.

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highcountry

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world class BREWS & VIEWS

Just a stone's throw away lies one of Victoria's best kept waterfront secrets, Nagambie Brewery & Distillery. Boasting world class lake-side views, exceptional brews and all-day dining inspired by locally sourced ingredients. Our relaxed and family friendly approach to everything on offers makes Nagambie Brewery the ideal scenic summer spot.

MENTION THIS AD WHEN VISITING NAGAMBIE BREWERY & DISTILLERY AND RECEIVE 20% OFF OUR RETAIL RANGE OF SPIRITS.

* Discount not valid with any other offer. You must be18 Years or more to purchase spirits from the Nagambie Brewery & Distillery. Proof of Age may be required. Offer valid from 1 December 2020 until 1 February 2021.

Stay & Play in Nagambie!

Award wining wineries The perfect family weekend Lakeside accommodation

Brewery & Distillery tours Indigenous art at Mitchelton Amazing dining experiences

THE INLAND OASIS ON MELBOURNE’S DOORSTEP

Located on the shore of Lake Nagambie and the banks of the mighty Goulburn River, lays an inland oasis offering some of the best tourist experiences Victoria has to offer.

Bendigo Shepparton

Nagambie

Seymour Benalla

Mansfield

Eildon

Melbourne

STAY

MITCHELTON HOTEL mitchelton.com.au/hotel

NAGAMBIE BREWERY & DISTILLERY nagambiebrewery.com.au NAGAMBIE LAKES LEISURE PARK nagambielakespark.com.au

HARVEST MOON GIFT SHOP harvestmoonhome.com.au NAGAMBIE WATERFRONT MOTEL nagambiewaterfrontmotel.com.au

THE MUSE RESTAURANT mitchelton.com.au/restaurant

A Toast to

High Country

Natalie Pizzini, brand manager

When the Pizzinis gather around the table on their King Valley farm, there’s spirited conversation, a generous spread of family-favourite dishes, and wine made to be shared with love.

Natalie Pizzini describes what she loves most about these rambunctious occasions. “A highlight for me is our family lunches, often with four generations at the same table,” she says. “ We share rustic food and stories, accompanied by plenty of prosecco, because, at the end of the day, this is what life is all about for us. We cherish it.” It’s this spirit of family, fun and togetherness that the winemaking families of the King Valley Prosecco Road share with visitors. “The thing I love most about prosecco is that even

Pizzini Wines though it can be a serious wine, you don’t have to be serious about it. It’s fun and elegant,” says Pizzini. “I love how that first sip makes you just sit back and say ‘ahhhh’.”

Alfred and Katrina Pizzini planted their first vines in 1978, produced their first wine in 1994 and went on to grow the family winemaking business. These days all four children are involved alongside their parents. Son Joel Pizzini directs the winemaking, focusing on varietal expression and finesse. The range features two proseccos: a non-vintage style perfect for summer afternoons, and the premium vintage

release, which is aromatic, crisp and flavourful with super-fine fizz. It’s perfect for the dinner table.

Natalie, her parents and three siblings have developed an inimitable offering for visitors to their cellar door. Whether it’s learning among friends in a prosecco and food pairing class, tasting from the barrel with Alfred, or getting special insight into family recipes with Katrina at A Tavola! Cooking School, visitors get a first-hand taste of the family’s flair and genuine hospitality. Pizzini Wines, King Valley

+pizzini.com.au "We share rustic food and stories, accompanied by plenty of prosecco, because, at the end of the day, this is what life is all about for us."

Pizzini – A Tavola! Cooking School

Airports are unique places with a sense of adventure and intrigue. We invite you to experience the airport virtually right here! Explore exclusive behind the scenes videos, get a guided tour of a Qantas A380 or download lots of fun airport puzzles, games, challenges and quizzes. Ages 7+.

Find out more here – melbourneairport.com.au/junior-traveller

Hidden Disability Program

Airports can be a stressful experience, especially when you or someone you are travelling with has a disability which is not immediately apparent to airport staff.

That’s why we have a Hidden Disability Program for our International Terminal to support travellers requiring special assistance as they travel through our airport.

Find out more here – melbourneairport.com.au/hdp

Safe, secure and hygienic

We care about getting every passenger from A to B safely. We have a variety of safety and hygiene programs operating in all of our terminals to make sure your journey is safe and seamless.

Increased cleaning and sanitising

Increased sanitising of high touch points

Hundreds of hand sanitiser units for public use

Contactless payments

Physical distancing aids Along with these measures, our staff are trained to make sure that our passengers safety is our number one priority.

Safe travels and we’ll see you next time you fly from Melbourne Airport.

w melbourneairport.com.au

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