VOICE
ON PAKO
STOP!
ESSENTIAL CAFE READING
free monthly
DECEMBER 2014
Geelong West Newtown people places property fashion
2
www.voiceonpako.com.au
3
4
www.voiceonpako.com.au
Two months to Pako Festa THE 33rd annual Pako Festa takes place on Saturday February 28 next year and promises a fantastic day of fun, music, dance and food. And it happens right here in Pakington Street. The celebration of cultural
diversity, which attracts in excess of 100,000 people, is organised by Diversitat in partnership with contractors, volunteers and Pakington Street traders. It is the largest free celebration of its type in Australia.
The event offers a smorgasbord of cultural food, folk dancing, the famous Pako Parade, workshops, art exhibitions, films, craft displays, free activities for children and an amazing day of non-stop entertainment.
Pako Festa prides itself as being a free event, accessible to all who want to share the enriching experience of multiculturalism. Keep an eye on the website http www.pakofesta.com.au and facebook page.
Spirit of giving
IF you were in need of feeling a bit of community love and faith, then I hope you went to the official launch of the Bethany Giving Tree Appeal on November 14 down at the Geelong Waterfront. With Santa arriving on a Harley Davidson and the
children from Oberon South Primary School singing Christmas carols, it was the perfect way to launch the 14th year of this wonderful event. Every year, businesses in the Geelong region become hosts for a Christmas tree, with other
businesses contributing time and money, for gifts to be donated to give to families and children who are disadvantaged and may not be receiving anything at this time of year. There are nearly 80 trees in the Geelong area, with the gifts going to various
organisations around Geelong including Barwon Youth and St Lawrence amongst others. You can find a full list of host businesses with trees to donate your gift to on Bethany's website www. bethany.org.au
I'm the Kinder the Castle Local mums have discovered a great place to catch up, have a coffee and let the little 'un stretch out in safe surrounds thanks to King of the Castle's artificial grass frontage.
5
New travel store sets sail
Who?
CRUISEABOUT Pakington Street had it's grand opening in November with Geelong mayor Darryn Lyons as a special guest. The mayor made a speech thanking Cruiseabout for their support of the cruise industry in Geelong and highlighting his vision for a Yarra Street pier. Valued clients and guests enjoyed some celebratory drinks and nibbles. Cruiseabout Pakington Street boasts a wealth of experience
Which corner cafe owner would most like to have dinner with the Queen and dress up as James Bond? For the answer turn to page 24.
with consultants Dave Ellis and Amber Foster sharing five years experience in the Cruiseabout brand and a total of 15 years in the travel industry between them. In a great location directly
Run Geelong, relax Pako TWELVE thousand walkers and runners took part in Run Geelong at the end of November – raising more than half a million dollars for Geelong hospital’s Special Care Nursery. And where better to relax and replenish the sugars than brunch in Pakington Street. Hundreds of participants still proudly wearing their t-shirts filled the cafes and coffee shops after the event. Voice on Pako was there to celebrate their sterling efforts.
across from the town hall Dave and Amber look forward to meeting new clientele from the area and welcoming their valued loyal clients as well. Dave and Amber between them have experienced every Australian based ship and can make some great personal recommendations. Although they specialise in luxury small ship cruising and river cruises they are also a full service travel agency, so they can offer flights, accommodation, tours and insurance.
Congratulations!
Sarah Edwards, Albert Garcia and Peter Mee at 63 Degrees.
Coffee and a snack for Fiona and Malcolm Baird and Noah and Samuel Erwin.
The Ruggeri and Posterino families at Two Sugars.
A BIG congratulations to three of our own cafes in the Geelong West/Newtown area for their recognition at the Golden Plate awards. David Wainwright took out Best Front of House for The French Corner Café, King of the Castle received the Innovation Award, and came runner up in both Best Coffee and Best Unlicensed Café, with Winters Café most recently getting a joint award for Best Café statewide among others. Just some more proof that this area is the best in Geelong.
6
www.voiceonpako.com.au
7
PEOPLE OF PAKO story MADELIN BALDWIN
Beauty for all SITTING down with Emma McFarlane, owner of the newly opened Blush Bar on Pakington Street, one could easily be intimidated by this glamorous business woman. But she immediately puts you at ease with her incredibly infectious and warm personality. Clearly, this is the reason she has run a successful makeup artist business for 15 years, before branching out into a store. During those yeasr years, Emma has specialised in special occasion and more specifically
bridal makeup, with a freelance team of 4 working with her. A trip to New York saw her witnessing firsthand the rise of the ‘blow dry bars’ and she thought ‘I want to do that, but for makeup’. And so, after two years of planning, with a vision to always be on Pakington Street, Emma founded Blush Bar – an express make up bar service where exclusivity is out, but glamour and fun is in. The whole idea was to be able to have somewhere people could come without having to
pay a small fortune, and start their day or night with a glass of Champagne and a choice of services; from a simple smoky eye ($33) or Lip-Me-Up ($15), to the signature ‘Blush Me Up’, a ‘professional full service make up application’ starting at $65. Blush Bar also offer Make Up Tutorials with a hands on approach – the amazing artists will help do half of your face, and then you can do the other. There is no ‘product redemption’ tied into the price, so buying the products
afterwards is completely left up to you, giving it a more personal touch than a normal make up counter in a department store. Emma trained with Napoleon Makeup after taking a semester off from a University course she wasn’t really enjoying. Even after going back to finish her degree, she stayed on as a makeup artist and has since launched her own Blush make up range, which she also uses and sells in Blush Bar. The range is hypo allergenic, and ‘contains nothing I
Blush Bar, 320 Pakington Street Newtown, 52982263
wouldn’t put on my own face’. She signed the lease to Blush Bar the day she got back from her honeymoon so it doesn’t surprise me that this savvy worker opened her bar on Geelong Cup day – with the paint on the sign still wet! With ‘bar tabs’ available where you can save the more times you come and see the girls, and a complimentary glass of Champagne on arrival, this gorgeous pink haven at the River end of Pako is just what Newtown has been asking for.
8
www.voiceonpako.com.au
9
WORD ON PAKO opinion PETE DERBYSHIRE
My affair with the street THIS Is the first article I’ve ever written. So when asked to pen a column for VOP, you can imagine I was a little freaked out - what should I write about? Do I put on my Derbyshire Hat and talk about the beautiful architecture in the area? Offer some designing or building tips and tricks? Or do I put on my Local Resident’s Hat and talk about what I’ve loved about living on Pako for the last 15 years. Yep, I’ll don the LRH. The vibe. The vibe on Pako is second to none. There is nothing better than strolling
down Pako’s tree lined streetscape on a Saturday morning to collect the paper. A range of people floating around shopping, breakfasting, coffeeing, sun shining – the smell of sausages filling the air from the Heritage Meats as you get the paper from the newsagents and a maybe cheeky Scratchie. The array of small businesses brings in all sorts of people who are happy, smiling and all getting their weekly fill of community spirit. That’s the big thing Pako gives people and its positive impact on
the community shouldn’t be underestimated. Shopping. Everything is catered for here on Pako. Need a bowtie? Sorted, pop down to Browns Mensland. Need a new pair of boardies? No problem, Navaho - here I come. New jacket you say? Browse can certainly fix that. If I was a woman, I’d imagine I would be equally blessed for choice. Food. How good is the food at Tulip and French Corner Cafe? Seriously good. I’m actually now confused as to which is the ‘Parisien End’ of
Pako. We’re spoilt for choice with cuisine. Two Sugars is packed out constantly and for good reason. Amazing arancini balls and pizzas – rivalled only by Pizza Bar over the road. And with new cafés and restaurants opening up every few months there’s always something new to try. Coffee. Pakington Street has an embarrassment of riches in the coffee department and I haven’t even made the trip down to King of the Castle yet. Chiefly led by Mister Miller, the plethora of coffee confronts
me with one of the greater first world problems I face in my life. Do I go to cross the road, walk past French Corner Café to head to Mister Miller knowing I’ll have to do the walk of shame on the way home? Box Office do some seriously nice cold pressed coffee too, sure to be a winner this summer. Anyway, I think I’ve mused enough about what I love about Pako. Thanks for reading and stay tuned for my next article – perhaps wearing my Derbyshire Hat.
10
PICTURE BOARD
www.voiceonpako.com.au
picture PHIL THOMSON PHOTOGRAPHY
11
PAKO DIGEST Market cooking AWARD-winning chef Matt Dempsey showed off his cooking skills and flare down at V+R Fruit and Veg Market last Saturday. The owner of Gladioli restaurant in Inverleigh cooked two cold dishes, including vanilla bean panacotta with fresh fruit and home made honeycomb. The event was open to the public, and customers were treated to a
lesson and tastings from chef who previously won National Young Chef of the Year and represented Australia in the 2010 San Pellegrino world cooking cup in Venice. The cooking classes at V+R will be a regular event through summer, with many other chefs to join in. Keep up to date with the V+R Facebook page for more details.
Matt Dempsey, pictured right, gave a cooking demonstration at V + R Fruit and Veg Market.
Women's service club welomes new members AFTER last months peek into Berkeley Lodge (formally Dromoland House), I stumbled across the Soroptimist Womens Group, who meet once a month here for dinner and a meeting. I had a chance to chat with Karen and Bev, President and Membership Office, to find out a little more info. Soroptimist began in the States around 90 years ago as an organisation to support women and children.
‘The easiest way to describe it is like the women’s version of the Rotary (which now includes men and women), however we hate that description!’ laughs Karen. Bev has been a member for more than 20 years, and Karen for 10, and they have been meeting at Berkeley Lodge for the last 10. What used to be a very exclusive club these days is much more inclusive, with new members invited to come along to their
meetings and film nights every month to see if they enjoy it. Celebrating their 54th year, the Soroptimist Group in Geelong support a huge range of local and international projects including donating to the Minerva Family Services for a CCTV camera for their refuge (helping women and children escape domestic violence situations); collecting underwear and sleepwear on White Ribbon Day;
President elect Kristin Cook and immediate past president Monica Rylance packing Literacy and Numeracy Show-bags for low-literacy schools.
supporting Days for Girls, a local group providing sanitary needs to girls in third world countries so they can go to school, and more recently they identified five primary schools in the
Geelong region with the lowest literacy and numeracy rates and collaborating with the Geelong library to make bags for the prep information nights filled with books, pencil cases
and information to encourage and educate families on the work that Soroptimists do. They have consultative status at the UN, and Karen was recently awarded with the Grant of
Friendship, and taken to America to go and see some of the work that their international counter parts do. If you are interested in joining, Soroptimist meet the third Tuesday of every month for a movie night at 6.30pm at the Shirley Mills Theatre (starting again in February), and at Dromoland House from 6pm for dinner and monthly meeting every second Tuesday. For details contact Karen Thornton on 0419426274.
Find us on
12
www.voiceonpako.com.au
13
FOOD & drink story MADELIN BALDWIN
Capra Roasters, 112 Fyans Street, South Geelong 5222 2845 IF you head along West Fyans Street, you’ll bump into Capra Roasters – a local Geelong coffee roaster where you can pick up quality, consistent coffee to take home with you. No pretence, no ‘cold dripped through a unicorn horn for 72 days dangling over a cliff face’, but ‘just great coffee we can get all the time’. Eight years ago, Steve Maddern went to visit his daughter in Queensland when she took him down to a local café who roasted
their own beans in store. Steve was so inspired, he went back to his café in Drysdale and brought a half a kilo roaster, ordered a DIY kit online and taught himself to make what was ‘fairly easy to follow fresh coffee’. Steve felt that the public were not being offered good commercial coffee, and that the specialty coffee changed too much so that when someone found a roast they enjoyed, it was no longer there the next month. ”It doesn’t mean we don’t do
great coffee, we just make coffee you can enjoy and love on a regular basis” says Steve. They went from selling 8 kilos per week, to 25 very quickly, and with a tiny roaster and people wanting to take home packs as well, he realised the real money was in a larger roasting business and so they sold Drysdale. Steve liked Fyans St because although there was little foot traffic, there was a lot of general traffic in the industrial area, and just enough on the outskirts of
the main CBD to attract people. Although you can get coffee and cake down at Capra, as someone once said in an online forum a few years back ‘Capra are not quite a café, and not quite a gift store, so what are they?’ – to which Steve replies, ‘well we don’t need to be pigeon holed do we?’. They stock all sorts of gifts and bits, from ornaments, clothes, crockery ‘it’s the only place in Geelong to my knowledge you can get a fur coat and a cup of coffee in the same
venue!’. Capra now sell up to one tonne of coffee a week, between the café and the beans and have started opening earlier and earlier due to the demand of the local tradies, who line up out the door from the early hours. Having extended to two other venues, in Belmont and Hoppers Crossing, Capra continue to supply the Geelong region with wonderful coffee and service so head on down to grab your take home bag.
Set sail with Princess cruises
New Zealand 13 Nights
World Cruise 102 nights
on Princess Cruises’ Dawn Princess
Highlights Melbourne – Auckland – Tauranga – Napier – Wellington – Akaroa – Dunedin – Fiordland National Park – Melbourne.
on Princess Cruises’ Sea Princess Highlights Colombo – Dubai – Aqaba – Athens (Piraeus) – Istanbul – Anzac Cove – Santorini – Venice – Dubrovnik – Rome (Civitavecchia) – Barcelona – Lisbon – Le Havre (Paris) – Southampton – Cork – Dublin – Reykjavik – New York – Lima – Easter Island – Bora Bora – Auckland.
DEAL: 629985
DEAL: 629986
HURRY!! Last chance to experience the Dawn Princess before she leaves Melbourne for the last time.
BONUS $50 onboard credit!
~
Inside twin share from
$1499
*
BONUS $1000 onboard credit! Inside twin share from
~
$21,299*
Geelong West 172 Pakington Street
1300 765 059
cruiseabout.com.au Applies to genuine cruise quotes from all cruise lines and registered travel agencies and websites. Quote must be in writing and must be presented to us prior to booking. Fare must be available and able to be booked by the general public when you bring it to us. Fares available due to membership of a group or corporate entity or subscription to a closed group are excluded. Quote must be for same dates and cabin category. We will beat price by minimum $1. For full terms and conditions see www.cruiseabout.com.au.*Travel restrictions and conditions apply. Prices are per person and taxes are correct as at time of publication, include all discounts, are in AUD, per person and are subject to change without notice. Changes may be due to (without limitation) adverse currency fluctuations, increases to fuel surcharges, taxes and airfares. Prices quoted are on sale until 31 Dec 14 unless otherwise stated or sold out prior. New Zealand: Cruise is based on 11 Feb 15 departure. World Cruise: Cruise is based on 24 May 15 departure. Full terms and conditions available from your Cruiseabout consultant. ˜Onboard credit is per cabin, not per person. Flight Centre Travel Group Limited (ABN 25 003 377 188) trading as Cruiseabout. ATAS Accreditation Number. A10412. CAM63014
CAM63014 Pakington Press.indd 1
13/11/14 1:03 PM
14
The start of Pakington Street
www.voiceonpako.com.au
LANDMARK TRIVIA
* Geelong's most famous shopping strip * It is about 5km long stretching from Church Street to the river * famous for its coffee culture and hosting the Pako Festa every February * The south end of Pakington Street is commonly referred to as the Paris end
NOW SHOWING
Pivot cinema EVER since The Pix closed in the 1990s, Geelong West has craved an independent cinema for its close-knit community. As of November 27, The Pivotonian Cinema will be screening the types of new release films that have long been available in Melbourne, but rarely find
screen time in Geelong. The Pivotonian prides itself on being accessible to all, with tickets priced from $10 for concession and $12 for adult. A fully licensed candy bar will also be selling cinema classics, like fresh popcorn, organic vanilla choc tops and Siketa Meat’s famous hot dogs.
The opening night will include a local short film followed by feature film ‘Locke’ starring Tom Hardy. Tickets are now available online at pivotcinema.com. au and a programme poster can be found at the venue, 57 Pakington Street, Geelong West, or at selected stores and cafés on Pako.
15
16
www.voiceonpako.com.au
Miracle Hair Treatment $24.95 Available from: Salon Xpression Cloud Nine Original And Touch Hair Straighteners On Special For $275 Was $299 Available from: Salon Eve
Mist Top $150 - Available from: Tangerine Beach BelEve Necklace $56 - Available from: Tangerine Beach Bags Wallet $90.00 Fold over bag $110.00 Organise Me $50.00 3 different size wallets sold as one Available from: Liv Gifts
17 Christmas – It creeps up on us, and before we know it there are four weeks left of the year! Between work functions, family holidays and work it can be hard to squeeze in the Christmas shopping as well. This year we’ve hopefully made things a little easier for you by collaborating with some great local boutiques on some Christmas gift ideas, from Kris Kringle, to your girlfriend and even mother-in-law. There are a huge range of incredible places to shop in Geelong West and Newtown, and a big thanks to Salon Eve, Salon Xpression, Liv Gifts, Tangerine Beach, Blush Bar and the Happy Shoe Shop for helping showcase a small selection of beautiful and easy gift ideas!
Make Up eos Balm $13 Lip Liner $24 Blush Lip Gloss $28 Blush Lip Stick $28 Available from: Blush Bar Shoes Eve Thong (silver) $99.95 Islander Thong $89.95 Available from: Happy Shoe Shop Jewellery Nerine Anne Bracelets $34.95 Emmy Lou Earrings $10 Available from: Happy Shoe Shop
320 Pakington St, Newtown
2/362a Pakington St, Newtown
LiV
110 Pakington St, Geelong West
19C Rutland St, Newtown
LiV
Florist Gift Shop
6/321-327 Pakington St, Newtown
Shop 6 321 Shop Pakington Florist Gift Street Newtown Vic 03 5221 5220 1/127 Shannon Shop 6 Ave, Manifold Heights 321 Pakington Street Newtown Vic 03 5221 5220
18
PROPERTY BOARD
www.voiceonpako.com.au
Style and class with location - 61 Gertrude Street AN immaculately maintained Tudor Californian Bungalow c1929's exudes supreme elegance and proudly sits on a north facing approx. 670sqm parcel framed by beautiful established gardens. The solid home provides a haven of substance and character in a highly sought
after address. •Wide covered front verandah with flower box •Superb oak panelled formal entrance foyer • High decorative ceilings and ceiling roses, wide skirting boards, bevilled glass doors, stunning leadlight windows, wooden plate rails
• Spacious lounge room features bay window, venetian opal glass leadlights and plate rails • Generous dining/family room with gas heater and inbuilt shelves/cupboards with glass doors •Three good size bedrooms, two bathrooms
•Functional kitchen with an abundance of cupboard space •Glassed vestibule with rear yard outlook •Established fruit trees and vegie garden •Side driveway to double garage/bungalow TERMS: 10% Deposit/Balance 60 Days
Contact: Graeme Taylor P: 52231677 M: 0418 387 262
Auction Date Saturday December 13 AT 12noon. www.gtagents.com.au
19
ART AND ENTS BOOM END YEAR WITH ICON
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare – Abridged Geelong Repertory Theatre, 15 Coronation Street, Geelong West DID you languish over Shakespeare in your high school English class? Yes, Shakespeare can be a trifle overwhelming when you have to sit through hours on end listening to men in funny trousers talking in riddles. So, at Geelong Rep we have made the entire works of Shakespeare digestible
in just 100 minutes! Not only that we guarantee that you will be laughing until Christmas with the antics of the four actors on stage Steven Georgiadis, Joanne Taylor, Philip Besancon and Taliesa Netta Cartwright. The play is directed by seasoned thespian, Geoff Gaskill. If that is not enough imagine
being able to boast “Yes, naturally I’ve seen all of Shakespeare’s works!” It runs on 27, 28 and 29 and December 4, 5 and 6 at 8pm Sunday matinee November 30 at 2pm. Tickets $19-$26 available from GPAC 5225 1200 and www.gpac.org.au
So looking forward to this, our last show for 2014! A massive show of small works, with close to 50 artists participating. We have had the privilege of working with so many talented artists over the last year and this will be a fantastic celebration of their diversity and talent. The works are all less than 30x30cm and are accessibly priced, perfect for Christmas presents! A small section of the gallery will be dedicated to suitably festive exhibition ICON . ICON will present the work of five artists who have learnt the techniques and requirements of Icon painting, each having undertaken extensive training and respond to the traditions in their own way. Icons are sacred images representing the saints, Christ, Mary and narrative scenes. Dating to the 4th Century and venerated among Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox & Catholic Churches, these images follow set traditions with symbolic meaning, attention to detail, strict colour palettes and compositions. Mark Friday 28 November aside for the opening. Boom Gallery 11 Rutland St Newtow
20
www.voiceonpako.com.au
21
schools NEWS
All the colour of Ashby ASHBY Primary School held its annual Market Day and Art Show in early November. The Friends of Ashby pulled together a fantastic day out for the whole family which was well supported by Ashby School families, energetic students and the local community. The Market Day and Art Show plays an important role at Ashby, with all proceeds from the event going to support the school’s high quality music and arts program.
22
www.voiceonpako.com.au
23
24
www.voiceonpako.com.au
Q and A WITH DAVID WAINWRIGHT David Wainwright co owns The French Corner Café with his fiancé Mandy. They have successfully run the delightful French bistro for almost two years, with David most recently winning the ‘Front of House’ award at the Golden Plate Awards! 1. Question 1 - If you could choose 3 people, dead or alive to come to a dinner party, who would they be? The Queen, Mrs Beeton, Raymond Blanc 2. Question 2 If you could dress up as anyone for a fancy dress party, who would you choose? Easy - Bond.....James Bond :)
3. Question 6 -If you were on a desert island an could bring three things, what would you bring? Life time supply of Foie Gras,a copy of Escoffiers " La Gastromique"', and my wardrobe. 4. Question 8 - What was the last gift you gave someone? That was to my fiancée Mandy - a matching set of Swarovski earrings and necklace. 5. Question 9 -If you could be a superhero, what would your super power be? If I had a super power ability it would be to be able to be in two places at once.
25
OLDPAKO
Geelong West Post Office 1922.
Image Geelong Heritage Collection Centre THE Geelong West Post Office in Pakington Street was designed in 1885 by western region architects of the Public Works Department, GBH Austin, as an eclectically derived style which is characteristic of his work. The foundation stone was laid
by Graeme Berry, Chief Secretary and the building was completed in 1886. The Post Office exemplifies the innovation and eclectic nature of Public Works Department architecture of the late 1880's in Victoria and has many counterparts throughout Victoria.
26
www.voiceonpako.com.au
ASK THE EXPERTS
?
? ?
27
with Rashida of Dalma Travel
TRAVEL
East coast fall TRAVEL is my passion which is what I do as a job running a Travel Business ”Dalma Travel”. I am a people person and I enjoy doing what I do. Being in travel for over 50 years has made it easy for me to explore the world. Recently, I went to America for business in Los Angeles and travelled to Kentucky and New York to catch up with family, refresh the memories and update with all the changes and new exciting places to visit and things to do to suggest to my clients for their travel. The highlights of my trip were exploring New England in the autumn to see the magical colours of the fall and refresh my history lessons. From New York via New Haven I entered the tiny state of Rhode Island and saw the sights of Newport. I also visited The Great Gatsby Resort of spendthrift tycoons, The Breaker, Cornelius Vanderbilt’s magnificent 70 Italian Palazzo and then headed North to Massachusetts. I saw the historic site of Plymouth, where Pilgrim Fathers landed aboard the Mayflower in 1620, the plantation a living history museum of 17th century and explored the historic town and
Plymouth Rock, the spot where the Pilgrims landed. I then boarded a cruise boat and headed out to the sea. It was an exciting trip whale watching which I enjoyed very much. On to Boston, the home of the Kennedy’s (also known as “The Cradle of American Liberty”) featuring many highlights including Beacon Hill, the old North Church (where Paul Revere was signalled of the departure of British Troops to Lexington), Boston Common, Public Gardens, the historic city of the famous Howard University, the heart of music theatres and the shopping at top designers stores. Next was time to explore Faneuil Hall before leaving for the picture perfect ocean front village of Ogunquit, a haven for the artists and writers. In the evening, I tried the Maine’s Lobster and delicious corn-on-cob. I travelled through colourful Autumn forests across New Hampshire, and saw the most exciting covered bridges which at time were 10,000 and today only remain 750. Each bridge is unique to its town and design and is listed with the national register of historic places. I stopped at Vermont where
birch, oak and maple leaves form a kaleidoscope of brilliant yellows, oranges and reds. I made a stop in Montpelier to visit a maple syrup farm and enjoy tasting. Travelling along Burlington on the shore of Lake ChamplainLake Placid, site of the 1932 and 1980 winter Olympics, I enjoyed the leisurely stroll along Mirror Lake and visited the Olympic Skating Centre, where you can watch future Olympic athletes train. I returned back to New York with a stop in Saratoga, the home of horse breeding, training and racing. Walking on the foot paths you will see the beautiful mosaics of horses and ballet shoes. It’s amazing to see and treasure the beauty of nature, art and history. I also visited Albany, the historic capital of New York and home of the museum of 9/11 to see the sad tragic losses of lives. I then spent my last day with pleasure in New York on 5th Avenue while shopping and watching the shows on Broadway, skating at Rockefeller Centre at night and did not miss Central Park. There are millions of things to see and do but had to come back to home sweet home Geelong.
Rashida at Lake Placid, USA.
...and at the Pilgrim Cottage, in Plymouth, USA.
28
www.voiceonpako.com.au
WORKTALES
story MADELIN BALDWIN
West appeal for wine man Paul STEVEN Paul is a Yarra Valley boy, long before it was well known for being a wine region, and grew up picking stone fruits and cherries. There was no cellar doors, and little contact between the makers and the consumers. At 19 he moved to inner city Melbourne for University and work, and was heavily exposed to the wine industry, buying wines for 5 star hotels and it became a bit of an obsession. This was the mid 90’s, long before the times when ‘sommeliers’ was a common term and he just built up a great rapport and relationships with wine producers and spent time touring vineyards. He was offered a job at Scotchmans Hill, which worked well because his wife who he met and lived with in Melbourne was a
Geelong girl, so they decided to make the move. At the time, they were worried they would miss the ‘Melbourne lifestyle’. “We thought we would miss the fresh markets, but there are so many good ones now in Geelong West and Newtown”. When they moved to a house just off Pako two weeks before their second baby was due, “we thought we would stay for one year and here we are (10 years later)”. He stayed in his role at Scotchmans Hill, managing the cellar door and supporting the sales team with media and press for around four and a half years before a chance meeting with the owner of Oakdene to discuss where they are going as a business. It sounded ‘exciting, and had all of the elements’, but it hadn't started to move
beyond a vineyard and so he joined in a management role to start to help ‘piece things together’. One of the best things about the new Geelong lifestyle was “You run around Albert Park in Melbourne and say hello and no one waves back to you, and you come to Geelong and everyones waving and giving the thumbs up - I love the fact that everyone knows each other, its a good tight knit community without being too over the top” With three kids, and a wife with a thriving Geelong local business “It’s so important for us to support local, (with my wife having a local business for such a long time), we share similar excitement to others when we see people opening new businesses in the area. It’s all about support local, support small business, and you get
diversity”. The great thing about working for a reputable winery, and living in one of the best areas of Geelong is being able to drop wine off to venues (that stock it), and ‘I can get inspired from what they are cooking, and have the local resources around to be able to cook it myself”. One of the only things that gets to Steven he says is the fact that “there are over five coffee roasters just in Geelong, we need to stop saying “Oh they have a Melbourne Style cafe, or they have Melbourne style coffee” when we have access to all of the best produce down here”. And ‘as a family with young kids, a good night out is a good night in - This street supplies us for a good night in. I can walk to the local butchers and get wine - we do a shop every day instead of weekly”.
FACETO THE NAME What did you do before you got into politics and how clear was your path in. Also, did you expect to last as long as you have? Prior to winning the Seat of Geelong in 1999 I was the Shipping Manager at the Port of Geelong, a job that I enjoyed immensely. My father was a Member of Parliament for many years and as such I grew up in a political environment. However it was not until I had children of my own and took on roles such as president of their school council during the days of the Kennett Government did I really ever contemplate a life in politics. At that time I was involved in many community organisations and my decision to stand for Parliament was really just an extension of those roles. I won the 1999 election by 16 votes and because of that tight margin I was very unsure if my political career would last more than one term. In fact in Parliament the Opposition Members used to call me the “oncer”. But I have lasted 15 years thanks to the efforts of many people who have supported me. Have you always been based on Pakington Street, and why Pako? My office has always been in Pakington Street. I must say as an East Geelong
person born and bred we use to joke that the west side of Latrobe Terrace was the beginning of Western Australia. But having moved into my office in 1999 I quickly came to love Pako. My youngest daughter now works at Zigfrids across the road from my Pako office, so I begin the day with a coffee there. What have been your highlights in representing, particularly, the residents and businesses of Geelong West and Newtown? West Geelong has a real sense of community and local people are very passionate, proud and protective of their suburb, for which I admire them. And believe me west people know where their local Member of Parliament's office is if they think something needs to be done. From a community perspective the highlights have been working with the great local primary schools like Ashby, Newtown and Chilwell. Also working with Diversitat and the various migrant communities has been rewarding for me, as to in the early days securing adequate funding for Pako Festa, which I love for its celebraton of our multi cultural community. What was your personal achievement during your
tenure? In 1999 the then Kennett Government was set to sell off the Grace McKellar centre on Ballarat Road. Together with a number of concerned people we fought hard to put the proposed sell off on the political agenda and Steve Bracks at the time then committed to keeping it. The McKellar Centre under Bracks was transformed from a tired run down aged care centre to a now world class rehab, palliative care and aged care centre. I feel proud of the small role I played in this transformation Are there goals you are disappointed that you didn’t achieve? I think in public life there are always areas where you think you could have done more or you could have done things a bit better. I tried to learn from those “mistakes” but not dwell on them. Naturally you will endorse your Labor replacement. Are there differences in style / approach? Christine Couzens is now the endorsed ALP Candidate and I know she will make a great MP if elected. Christine is a Geelong West person and one who has contributed enormously to our community from her
29
Ian Trezise
Ian farewells state politics
work with me over the last 15 years to her decades of voluntary work with homeless youth. My approach in representing local people is to be always accessible and work hard to represent people’s views. I know Christine would take on that approach if elected. Why are you retiring and what do you plan to do next?
To do this job to properly it is a seven day a week commitment with some very long days. After 15 years I now feel is the time to close the door on my political career and open others. I am retiring from politics not life and thus would be more than happy to work with any of the great community organisations that serve Geelong people.
The State Election is on November 29. A full list of candidates for the Geelong seat can be found at: vec. vic.gov.au
30
www.voiceonpako.com.au
EVOLVING BUSINESS
story MADELIN BALDWIN
Team with values
If you would like to advertise your business in our Trades & Services section please contact Madelin Baldwin on 0475 259 517
for 11 years. They both started their apprenticeship together and moved salons together, before buying and opening Hidden Minx one and a half years ago. Originally a sixstation salon, they renovated and took over the shop next door in August and now boast 11 stations. Where Emma specialises in colour, Hannah is a short hair cutting expert and between the two of them have a great team, including their
Building & Contruction
own professional barber Cassie. They decided to do this charity day because they had done one at a previous salon, and chose Pink Ribbon because being a ‘female dominated salon’, they know that nearly everybody has been affected by cancer in their life. They are opening their doors from 10am-4pm, with complimentary pink champagne on tap, and a local DJ Max Mckay on the decks. Mens haircuts are $20, womens are $40,
and blow waves are $20, so not only are the prices not breaking the bank, but it’s all going to a terrific cause. Emma and Hannah have also been in contact with local businesses to sponsor their raffle which will be drawn on the day – from vouchers for food and drink, to clothes. One ticket is $5, and 3 for $10. Call the girls on 5242 8884 or pop into 80a Hope Street and make your appointment to guarantee your spot.
Excavation & Landscaping
Building & Contruction
a
r
oot
.a
ba
ef
Medi
u
foot
5 18
0 721 40
Bare
info @
Children e grown up. Blink and they’v t capture the ic! tha s s ges Ima la y d c are Famil eative an family ence of childhood r ice. cr dia ess and beyound pr Fun, esigne foot Me us d ecio pr a ’s re That it by Ba a r port
Individuals & Couples Whether it’s a wedding, engagement or anniversary shoot, Barefoot Media take time to get to knowwill you.
0
& SERVICES
TRADES
IF looking fabulous and donating to charity at the same time sound good, then call Hidden Minx on Hope St, and book your cut and/ or blow wave in for November 30. For the entire day, the girls are donating all the proceeds to the Pink Ribbon foundation, as a great way to launch the newly renovated salon, and give back to community. Emma VanDerMark and Hannah Boyd have been working together on and off
m e dia.c
om
BOOKNOTES
31 with John Allan and Alison Katona of Paton Books
Are you afraid of Monsters? Rosemary Selkirk
RRP Paperback $14.99/Hardback $24.99
WELL, are you? This beautiful new picture book by local author (and psychologist/teacher) Rosemary Selkirk offers one approach to monsterwrangling for children. Rosemary and illustrator Cameron Singleton, show how monsters are most likely just in our imagination, and as such, can be as scary or not as we choose.
When The Night Comes
Favel Parrett TORQUAY writer Favel Parrett’s first novel Past The Shallows won multiple awards and with this second novel When The Night Comes Parrett lives up to her reputation for richly detailed writing and the ability to create characters that we can empathise with. Isla is an isolated girl who, with her younger brother and mother, relocates to Tasmania. When a sailor from a ship that
RRP $27.99
docks in Hobart befriends Isla’s mother his presence in the household is welcomed by the siblings. He cooks for them, talks to them, and has them entranced with stories of life on his ship, which transports people and cargo between Australia and the Antarctic research stations each year. Two long summers change Isla’s life as she learns that it is possible to go anywhere and be anything..
Good children’s stories offer them a way to cope with the many scary aspects of life in a supportive and comforting way. There are many excellent picture books for helping children with their fears. Come and talk to us at Paton Books for further information. We are definitely not scary!