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Priceless ISSUE 32 - WINTER 2012

Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

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Secrets Magazine is a window to Central Victoria and the wonderful towns and villages that make the region such a fantastic destination. Places like Daylesford, Castlemaine, Woodend, Kyneton, Trentham, Clunes, Creswick, Maldon and the smaller, often lesser known, but no less attractive towns of Talbot, Avoca and Dunolly. Plus there are delightful little hamlets that aren’t on the beaten track – places like Redesdale and Musk and so many more.

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Page 1: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

Priceless ISSUE 32 - WINTER 2012

Page 2: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

2 | www.secretsmagazine.com.au

| |

Page 3: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

5: AN ODE TO DAYLESFORD

8: BE A TOURIST IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD

10: INAUGURAL BENDIGO WRITERS FESTIVAL

13: ROGER MCLEAN AN EXPLORER

15: FOOD OF THE REGION

16: ADVENTURES IN COFFEE, PART I: ‘ESPRESSO BONGO’

17: WHEN THE BLEND IS RIGHT

18: SPREADING THE WORD FOR CRAFT BEER

24: A TALE OF TWO BREEDS

25: ORGANIC, MUCH MORE THAN FOOD; IT’S A LIFESTYLE CHOICE

26: FARMER’S MARKETS HIT THE SENSES

27: FOR THE LOVE OF FARMERS’ MARKETS

30: WHATEVER TAKES YOUR FANCY

31: GRACE KELLY BREAKS ALL RECORDS REGULARS:

32: ASTROLOGY

34: MARKETS & VICS

Contents

www.secretsmagazine.com.au

Page 4: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

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From The EditorWinter – brisk winds, cold rain and often in our region, snow, isn’t a time to disappear indoors waiting for the first spring blossoms. It doesn’t take much searching to find something to do, or somewhere to visit over the colder winter months. Festivals such as Maldon in Winter in the first two weeks of July - the inaugural Bendigo Writer’s Festival in August, with a presenters list to make anyone who loves the written word salivate. There are art exhibitions to visit like the one to be held in August by the creator of our cover picture, Jodie Ferguson-Batte.

Interesting people always hold a fascination for us at Secrets and there is no-one more interesting than Roger McLean of Herbal Lore. You only have to read his story to be inspired.

Then there is our food feature, looking at the food of the region - grown, produced, created and enjoyed and an interesting article from Bryley Drummond about Farmers Markets and an insight into accreditation from the Victorian Farmers Markets Association. We also meet two young Bendigo men who have set out to raise awareness of good craft beer in

their hometown. We review The Grace Kelly: Style Icon exhibition that was a major event that gave the city an enormous boost – financially and culturally.

A number of excellent writers have contributed to the pages of Secrets and we have included a snapshot of each of them so our readers can get to know them too. As you bundle up against winter’s onslaught, and you browse through our winter issue, we’re sure you’ll find something and someone who you’ll find as fascinating and inspiring as we have.

ISSUE 32 - WINTER 2012PUBLISHED BY Knowers Ark Services ABN 85 392 160 201 MAILING ADDRESS PO Box 636 Daylesford VIC 3460

T 03 5345 7260 | E [email protected] WEBSITE www.secretsmagazine.com.au

EDITOR Norma Morton ONLINE / ARTWORK & LAYOUT Nick Morton COVER Courtesy of Jodie Ferguson-Batte - “Afternoons With Passing Clouds” CONTRIBUTERS Nardia Baxter-Keene, Rebecca Djordjevic, Lyndall McQuinn, Jane Marriott, Megan Spencer, Bryley Drummond

All content in this publication is copyright and may not be re-produced in whole or in part in any form without prior permission of the publisher. Secrets will be distributed quarterly throughout Victoria and various tourism outlets as well as various South Australian outlets. Secrets is also available from cafes, restaurants, B&B’s, hotels and shops. All care is taken to ensure accuracy of articles and advertising, however the publishers accept no responsibility for errors or omissions and references are a guide only and not intended as a recommendation.

Page 5: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 32 | 5

An Ode To Daylesford is an unusual name for an exhibition of paintings, but artist Jodie Ferguson-Batte has found her new life in Daylesford has been so fulfilling that she wanted to honour the town through her paintings. This is Jodie’s first exhibition in many years and one has to ask “why did we wait so long”. Her works are whimsical, expressive and even evocative and so taken are we at Secrets of Jodie’s work, that we chose one of her latest paintings for our cover for this issue.

Jodie and husband John moved into their old Victorian cottage in the middle of a Daylesford winter, which was almost a deal-breaker for John who had moved from England to get away from the cold weather. After surviving that

first winter, Jodie and John headed to the UK and Spain and while they had every intention of transforming their home into a charming English-style cottage on their return, their trip to Spain left a lasting impression on them, and in the following year, their home transformed into something of a Spanish-style villa; the perfect inspiration for Jodie to work on her whimsical paintings.

Their life in Daylesford differs greatly from their time living in Sydney. The harbour city was a world away from a Victorian country town, but Jodie says it has been a very positive move for them – she, John and two year old Jasper are now healthier and living life at a more civilized pace. Jodie also feels her artwork has settled into a more

reflective and grounded style with an almost bucolic feel.

Her exhibition at Daylesford’s Made Gallery in August will consist of about 20 to 30 of her works – it’s a celebration of the people, characters, places and experiences of life in this little country town. Jodie will also be inviting other local Daylesford artists with a shared enthusiasm for the town to submit a piece under the same theme. All works will be for sale and Jodie also accepts commissions, especially portraits and often has one or two on the go at any one time.

The exhibition Ode To Daylesford will be open through August on weekends at Made Gallery, Camp Street, Daylesford.

An Ode to Daylesford

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Page 6: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

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Jane Marriott “Jane is an environmental consultant doing vegetation assessments and enjoys working in the natural environment. Jane has been involved in Landcare organisation Project Platypus for over 10 years in revegetation works, platypus and bandicoot projects and organising events such as Agrifest. In her spare time Jane has renovated or built more than 10 houses. She recently moved to a 20 acre covenanted bush block near Creswick and has been working on the mud brick house, managing the bush and enjoying the new horizons in the region. At present she is volunteering at the Smart Living Centre in Ballarat and taking environmental workshops at Creswick Neighborhood Centre. She enjoys sharing her passion and enthusaism for our environment and sustainable living.”

Megan Spencer Megan Spencer has worked in the Australian media and arts industries for over 20 years. A filmmaker, photographer, event manager and writer, she now curates and markets El Gordo Cafe & Arts Space in Chancery Lane, Bendigo, while keeping herself busy with all manner of freelance writing and ‘content providing’ jobs. Her latest project is Social Media Manager for The Capital Theatre, Bendigo, having previously worked in a similar role for peak industry body, Music NT (based in Darwin). She loves living in Central Victoria - her home since 2010 - where she continues to discover its many secrets and riches...

Nardia Baxter-Keene Nardia is a microbiologist who went in search of a career change and fell in love with cheese making. She and her husband Andrew

established Goldfields Farmhouse Cheese in Ballarat in 2005. In 2011 they opened their cellar door in the beautiful village of Creswick. Nardia and Andrew are the parents of two wonderful children.

Rebecca Djordjevic Rebecca is a leader and advocate for healthy sustainable gardening. She is the Australian international coordinator for Remineralize The Earth www.remineralize.org and spends her time devoted to workshops and education on why minerals are vital for our health and our soil. Her energy and passion for making gardening fun, simple and sustainable is inspiring. Her mentor and good friend is Costa Georgiadis – presenter of the ABC’s Gardening Australia progam. Rebecca has dedicated her whole life to natural ways of growing things, being brought up on an organic farm and working alongside her soil and health guru dad, Ian Munro. Rebecca also writes for numerous blogs

Bryley Drummond Passionate about the important role food plays in a healthy functioning society, Bryley is a fanatical supporter of farmers’ markets; she wants people to know where their food has come from, and to share the stories about those who helped to put it on the table. A committee member of the Bendigo Community Farmer’s Market, Food Fossickers and Slow Food Melbourne, Bryley recently moved to Bendigo with her family and they love it there. Bryley heads up her own communications consultancy, Friendly Savage, specialising in writing, editing, public relations and social media.

Our Contributors

Page 7: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 32 | 7

In an era where all is said to be doom and gloom in retail Australia, it is gratifying to hear there are success stories in Central Victoria. One such shop is Gardens Etcetera in the popular tourist destination town of Maldon. Gardens Etcetera is a shop that specialises in garden furniture, art and accessories. The furniture is of high quality, the sculptures that adorn the shop are bespoke in nature, and there are lots of things that are simply quirky and good fun.

Since opening in May 2011 Gardens Etcetera has been a hit with locals and tourists alike. This has allowed owner Harry Koponen to quickly build on the level of stock so every time you visit the store there is something new to look at. So what is the secret to the store’s success?

“We look for stuff that is different,” says owner Harry Koponen. “I think people are sick of seeing the same old tired thing. When customers come in and say ‘this is different’, they are paying us the biggest compliment. I also think we came in at the right time. With other new shops such as Much Ado having recently opened, Maldon is becoming a great shopping destination.” A visit to Gardens Etcetera is quite beguiling and it will take more than one visit to fully appreciate the vast array of garden items available. We at Secrets hope that shops like Gardens Etcetera keep bucking the trends and help make Central Victoria the place to visit. Gardens Etcetera is open 7 days per week from 10am to 5pm.

A Success Story in the Goldfields

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Garden Furniture, Art and Accessories“Bespoke and Special” - “Quirky and Good Fun”

Open 7 days - 10am to 5pm21-25 Main Street, Maldon - 03 5475 2339

www.gardensetcetera.com.au

70 Bailey Street, Clunes

03 5343 5281

Glass With Class

Lee MedlynHome of Bottles

Page 8: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

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By Jane Marriott

I am fortunate in having a 20 acre bush block “backyard” so I have the luxury of being able to take this statement literally and I enjoy many hours exploring my “back yard” - looking out for the latest fungi, sitting on the verandah watching the procession of birds visiting the pond, waiting for various spring wildflowers to emerge and if I’m really lucky catching

a glimpse of Wedge tailed Eagles soaring overhead.

The intent of this article however is to remind locals and visitors of some of the lesser known treasures we have in the Creswick/Clunes/Central Goldfields region. They are all reached without encountering heavy (any!) traffic or crowds, have no entry fees and are all on our back doorstep. Of course the experience will be enhanced

by stopping at one of our many local cafes for a coffee and cake, a meal or picnic ingredients.

Since moving to the Creswick area a year ago I have discovered many treasures. Connecting with a local region enhances your sense of place and provides a deeper understanding of the built and natural environment.

In this region Andersons Mill was perhaps the

Be A Tourist In Your Own Backyard

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Page 9: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 32 | 9

most spectacular of “my” discoveries. Turning off the Smeaton Rd and coming face to face with that impressive five!! storey bluestone edifice in the valley is quite breathtaking. The waterwheel, the creek, the bluestone bridge complete the picture. The bluestone and concrete Wheelers Bridge on the Creswick-Lawrence Rd is also worthy of closer examination.

I am learning to locate my whereabouts from where the various volcanic cones (with interesting names!) lie in the landscape. The ridges and valleys formed from lava flows and the resulting rich soils contrast with the surrounding

impoverished goldfields soils. The relationship between these basalt soils and the gold mines at places like Berry, Ullina and Kingston is a fascinating one.

Wandering around the main street of Clunes and beyond always leads to a new discovery. Looking at the roof lines, shop fronts and laneways reveals many “quaint quirks”. Heading out on the Maryborough Road you can’t miss the outstanding architecture of the Town Hall and Court House and like the rest of Clunes - a photographers delight.

Mt Beckworth near Clunes can be enjoyed from several

picnic spots and can be ascended from several points. Spectacular views, granite boulders and reaching the big pine tree planted in 1918 at the summit are ample rewards even for those who prefer their bush more pristine.

I encourage locals and visitors to enjoy the very simple pleasure of visiting local places of interest or beauty which connect you with local history, geology, the natural environment, local people and produce. Try Breakneck Gorge, St Georges Lake walk, Campbelltown cemetery, climb Mt Grenoch, find the old Eucalyptus distillery near Talbot..... and that’s just the beginning.

Page 10: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

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Books, reading, writing and collecting are an integral part of the lives of many. Just watch the crowds that gather at any book sale or writer’s festival. Who would guess that a tiny town like Clunes in Central Victoria would attract over 15,000 people on a weekend in May for their iconic Booktown Festival.

Bendigo now has its own Writer’s Festival that will take place in August. A potent mix of some of Australia’s greatest writers, poets, persuaders and commentators will gather in the heart of central Victoria to launch the inaugural Bendigo Writer¹s Festival over the weekend of 10th & 12th August 2012.

Attracting writers and thinkers such as Gideon Haigh, Don Watson, Alexis Wright, David Marr, Ita Buttrose and Alex Miller the Festival will launch with over 50 outstanding guests who will gather to celebrate their shared love of books and ideas. A range of events from panel discussions to interviews with writers, will be matched with performances of words and music, readings, storytelling, specially hosted dining events and workshops.

Held in many of the superb Victorian and contemporary buildings of Bendigo, the Festival will offer a rich mix of heady discussion and beautiful architecture for the fifty plus events and talents programmed for August.

Writers include: Gideon Haigh, Don Watson, Alexis Wright, David Marr, Ita Buttrose, Alex Miller, Hanifa Deen, Ian Jones, Janine Burke, Paul D Carter, Sydney Smith, Tony Birch, Ross Donlon, Lucy Sussex, Geoff McBean, Cam Oliver, Margo Lanagan, Jess Anastasi, Kevin Brophy, Arnold Zable, John Charalambous, Katherine Thompson, John Flaus, Ross McCullen, Andrew Grimes, Lisa Lang, Kerry Greenwood, Judith Armstrong, Sulari Gentil and Leigh Hobbs.

Discussions include a wealth of fascinating subjects and any writers, published or hoping to be, should not miss this chance to be involved in some thought provoking conversations with some of this countr y’s great writers.

Inaugural Bendigo Writers Festival

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Housed in the historic Creswick Town Hall, built 1876. The museum houses artefacts and original artworks covering the history of the region from the early farming days, the gold rush, deep lead mining, famous local people including the Lindsay family of artists, artist Victor Litherland and Premier Alexander Peacock. Learn the story of the tragic gold mining accident when 22 men lost their lives. Our Research Centre can help you with researching the social history of the area or family history.

Museum open Weekends andPublic Holidays 11am to 3.30pmResearch Centre Friday and Saturday 11am to 3.30pmwww.creswickmuseum.orgPhone 5345 2845

CRESWICKMUSEUMAlbert Street Creswick

Page 11: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 32 | 11

Inaugural Bendigo Writers Festival

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BCC032 - BWF_SecretsVicA5_Ad FA_OL(PRINT).pdf 1 22/06/12 2:07 PM

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www.bodywise.com.au1300 66 17 66

Shop 19, 130 High Street, WoodendNext to new Woodend Post Office

Fitting appointments essential

• wire-free bras • all ages • maternity • sports • briefs •B50 B5465 B5529

Tipperary Springs Road, DaylesfordPhone 03 5348 [email protected]

Come and have the time of your life horseback riding through

picturesque bushland in Daylesford’s beautiful ‘Spa Country’

BoomerangHoliday rancH

All rides are fully supervised byexperienced leaders. Helmets supplied.

Please call to make a booking.

ACCreDiteD by AuStrAliAn CAmPS ASSoCiAtion

Page 13: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 32 | 13

Meeting Roger McLean for the first time is a moment rarely forgotten. The energy of the man is both inspiring and overwhelming. An astute businessman who by his own admission can bluster his way into gaining what he wants – generally – but scratch the surface and you find a deep thinking, compassionate man who through his own life’s journey has reached a level of personal evolution that is in itself, inspiring.

Always innovative Roger has developed Herbal Lore – a unique range of herbal liqueurs that are an Australian first and rapidly gaining international attention. Drawing from the teachings of the ancient Hebrews, Mayan and Egyptian civilizations, the liqueurs Roger creates are said to have calming, uplifting and aphrodisiac qualities – and the taste is sublime. Herbal Lore operates from a beautifully renovated butter factory in Daylesford.

Like all good things, it didn’t happen overnight. Prior to Herbal Lore Roger had been a shearer, chef, fitter and turner, auctioneer, baker and then a wine maker, establishing Mt. Aitken Estates winery in Gisborne in 1972, which he owned until 1990. Working eighteen-hour days to turn Mt. Aitken into the successful business it became, it wasn’t unknown for him to jump in a truck and drive thirty six hours to make sure a consignment reached a major client in Cairns, North Queensland, on time. However, this dedication to his work ethic took its toll.

For some time his body had been telling him that something wasn’t quite right, but his surgeon assured him that there wasn’t a problem. His grueling workload continued and the pain escalated. A lifelong believer in alternative practices, Roger consulted an Iridologist who very quickly diagnosed testicular cancer. The ensuing argument with his surgeon confirmed to Roger that

his forward road was to be a more natural one. He declined surgery and set about to find a cure through alternative and holistic modalities. This set him on a path of exploration, experimentation, learning and eventually, writing, teaching and co-founding the Cancer Natural Therapy Foundation of Australia. Believing that we are all responsible for our own wellbeing, he has written a number of books to help people find their own potential, but he doesn’t suffer fools gladly and can sometimes be brutally honest if he feels that someone isn’t doing their best to help themselves.

Now 61, Roger has been cancer free for fourteen years and believes that contracting the disease was the best thing that ever happened to him. You can learn more about Roger’s teachings and published works by visiting his website www.rogermclean.com

Roger McLean An Explorer

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Page 14: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

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Kyneton Daffodil & Arts Festival 2012

‘40 Bloomin’ Years’

30th August - 9th September 2012

• FestivalLaunchRetroCostumeParty10Aug• 22OpenGardens31Aug—9September• MosaicsExhibition31Aug—9September• ArtsTrail&Exhibitions31Aug—9September• KynetonAntiqueFair31Aug,1&2September• FestivalofOneActPlays1&2September• FerretRacing&Scarecrows1September• SpringFlowerShow1&2September• KynetonVarietySpectacular5September• AlpacaFiesta8September• DaffodilOldTimeBall8September• StreetParadeandFair9September• Music,Performances,WritersWorkshop,Fine

Food&Wine,GourmetDemonstrations&more…

www.kynetondaffodilarts.org.au

Phone Secretary 0354222282Visitor Information 0354226110

CLIFFY’SE M P O R I U M

30 RAGLAN STREET DAYLESFORD 3460 V ICTORIATELEPHONE 5348 3279

www.cl i ffys .com.au

9-5 DAILY

From August 30 to September 9, the Kyneton Daffodil & Arts Festival will celebrate its ‘40 Bloomin’ Years’ with an exciting array of arts, crafts, gardens, flower shows, food, wine and hospitality.

Among masses of beautiful daffodils 22 local gardens will open and there will be the Spring Flower Show, One Act Plays, Antique Fair, ferret racing, buskers and scarecrows, an Alpaca Fiesta, Fun Run, a Variety Spectacular featuring many local and renowned artists, other performance and literary events, and a glittering Old Time Ball.

Exhibitions at local galleries and venues display the work of local artists. Visitors can take in the Kyneton Art Group’s annual show, make their

own judgement on the entries to the Daffodil Art Prize and the Youth Art Awards and admire vivid photography reflecting the spirit of Kyneton.

New this year is a Retro Costume Party that starts the celebrations on August 10 and there will be a solo performance by Maggie Millar, a writers’ workshop, ‘Sojourn’ a photography exhibition and gourmet food demonstrations by local providores.

The Festival concludes with a magnificent Grand Parade on Sunday September 9 followed by a Fair, performances and rides in Kyneton’s main streets.

Further updates, phone 5422 2282 or visit www.kynetondaffodilarts.org.au

Kyneton bursts into Spring with 40 Bloomin’ Years of Daffodils and Arts

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Page 15: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

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We can’t live without food, it’s the fuel that keeps the body and brain functioning, so it stands to reason that something so basic should also be a source of great enjoyment. We search out the best, the freshest, the most interesting and look for the new and innovative wherever possible. Central Victoria is a veritable food bowl – an abundance of Farmers Markets, excellent cafes and restaurants that serve some of the most delicious food to be found anywhere. Gone are the days of grabbing a pie and sauce or fish and chips for a quick lunch – now the inner beast demands that even the humble lunch break is one that not only fuels the body, but pleases the taste buds as well. Beyond lunch, interesting and delicious breakfasts

and dinners are easy to find in just about any town. Travelling around the region it is easy to see which towns are moving forward and those that are appear to be driven by food through great markets, new bakeries and patisseries, artisan food outlets, enhanced by a growing number of drink options – micro breweries, cideries, wineries – it’s all there for the asking. Travel to any town in Central Victoria and you’ll find something to appeal to every palate, but a word of warning, unlike city eateries, many country places close for one or two days per week, however most are open from Thursday to Tuesday. The following pages are just a mere glimpse of what you can find in our fantastic region.

Food of the Region

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CHOCOLATIER & CAFÉ

84 Albert Street, Creswick, Victoria 3363 (opposite the Post Office)

Phone. 03 5345 1150Email. [email protected]

Open 8am-5pm daily

A small slice of the international world of chocolate can be found in the historic town of Creswick in Central Victoria.

HANDMADE Specialty European semi-hard, white & blue mouldcheese from local cows milk

handmade specialty european semi-hard, white & blue mould cheese from local cows milk

C H E E S E

handmade cheeses

71A Albert St (Midland Hwy), Creswick. (10 min from Ballarat, 20 min from Daylesford)

Open Friday to Monday 10am – 4:30pm Phone 0409 756 289

www.goldfieldsfarmhouse.com.au

Page 16: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

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Oliver was blessed with enjoying espresso culture in its countries of origin, Italy, Spain and Southern Europe, where it became commercially successful from the 1950s onwards. There, he learned to understand that every espresso coffee-style had been created for a purpose. It’s not just about having your favorite coffee and always sticking to it, as we often do here in Australia.

So what do people drink there?

In the morning? Very milky coffees: ‘latte’ (Italy), ‘leche’ (Spain) or ‘café au lait’ (France). Why? Because that’s breakfast! (The logic being “sleep as long as you can and hurry to work”) Maybe with a biscuit or two dunked…

Milky coffees are consumed from bowls - big wide cups without handles! Please let’s agree to never use the word ‘mug’ again – after all it’s an insult to call someone a mug, right? And the only reason you’d ever ask for a mug of coffee is to get LOTS!

In coffee consumption, bowls are practical. Any old bowl will do.

Just before you complain “how do I drink a hot coffee from something without handles?!” Fact is, coffee’s never supposed to be served that hot. The Japanese are right too: if it’s too hot to pick up it’s too hot to drink.

After breakfast? Black coffee - ‘espresso’/’café solo’ – or, with as little milk as possible:

‘macchiato’ and ‘piccolos’ (Italy), or in Spain, ‘cortado’. (In Australia we know the latter as ‘short blacks’, with a little milk.) The reason behind this is, people always look forward to their next meal; the last thing they want to do is bloat their guts with milk! It’s one shot of coffee, so you can enjoy the aromas and flavours (approx. 2000) of the roasted coffee bean in its purest essence.

Lunch? Simple: espressos after meals. To digest and revitalise, specially if you don’t get that siesta afterwards! It’s unheard of having a meal without an espresso at the end. “How could you enjoy it? It’s a ritual!” It’s about switching on all senses - sometimes one’s not enough either. There’s logic to this; desserts or cakes aren’t a big deal after lunch. So an espresso – sometimes with a cheeky shot of brandy or liqueur (‘coretto’/’carajillo’) - is a preferred dessert ‘substitute’. And often lunch is quite late because knock off isn’t until 9-10pm!

‘Same same’ for dinner: espressos all round at the end. Depending on what industry you’re in (hello hospitality) the nightlife might be beckoning. In which case you’ll finish your meal again with an espresso, likely imbibed with another nip of spirits.

Like wine, coffee is considered as important to enjoying a meal. It’s not to be abused but enjoyed. And the oils – even in decaffeinated coffee – are a great digestive.

Adventures In Coffee, Part I: ‘Espresso Bongo’By Oliver Budack & Megan Spencer - El Gordo Café Bendigo

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Page 17: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 32 | 17

Are you a coffee tragic – is the blend, the origin, and the presentation all important in your enjoyment of the perfect cup of coffee? Or are you like most of us – as long as it tastes right, you’re happy, but you’ll remember where you had that coffee and you’ll go back again and again? Oliver Budack co-owner of Bendigo’s El Gordo makes the coffee that will have you going back – along with some delectable morsels in this gorgeous, but tiny café in Chancery Lane.

Before moving to Bendigo and opening El Gordo, Oliver managed the cellar door at Shelmerdine winery in Tooborac. When he and partner, Megan Spencer decided the time was right to set up their own business, he bought his love for Spanish cuisine together with his love

for exquisite coffee to Chancery Lane in Bendigo, where he and Megan have put their stamp on this interesting and exciting café. Along the way they spent time in Papua New Guinea, then Darwin before making Bendigo. Ever the perfectionist, Oliver knew what he wanted in the blend of coffee he was to serve to his customers. Calling it his Ethical Blend, the beans are a mix of Brazilian, Indian and Papua New Guinean – all part of the essential fair trade network. Not just a café, El Gordo is also a mini exhibition space that Megan curates, bringing an exciting flow of exhibitions to showcase local and visiting artists and adding even more colour and movement to this great space.

When the Blend is Right

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El Gordo - 'The Fat One' in Spanish.. We're about the perfect coffee, fantastic food, and enjoying the moment.El Gordo Coffee & CultureChancery Lane, Bendigophone: 0413 447 518www.elgordo.net.au

Open for lunch & dinner –

Thursday to Sunday

Live music every Sunday

Ukulele Jam Sessions in Cellar

Thursday nights

Great food – wide selection

of Craft Beers

Beautiful gardens - Available for

functions and weddings

49-57 Marong Road,

Golden Square

03 5442 2453 or 0431 458 785

[email protected]

Page 18: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

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There’s a growing culture around pubs, clubs, cafes and restaurants for craft beers. Through a series of events under the umbrella of Bendigo Beer, two enterprising young men, Justin McPhail and Trev Birks are doing there utmost to spread the word about craft beers and Australian craft breweries.

Tired of not being able to find good beer in their favourite restaurants, and seeing the ready availability of craft beers in Melbourne, which they say is the capital of craft beer in Australia - they set about bringing a little of that culture to Bendigo. They do this by organizing a variety of events in different places that have been capturing the imagination of venues and the public alike. Starting just over 12 months ago with only three places prepared to stage these events, they are now finding that venues are approaching them to showcase craft beers.

Living in what they see as a progressive city filled with passionate people, the concept is gaining momentum on a weekly basis. The plan is to awaken the beer drinker’s senses to order a pint of craft instead of the usual “draught on tap”. Eventually, Justin and Trev hope to take the idea around the region, but as they are both professional young men on career

paths, Bendigo Beer’s activities will remain a part time occupation. Currently they stage one event per month – often as part of a series of progressive dinners. Justin is also involved in the Blues and Roots Festival as well as the “Festival of the Lamb”, part of the Bendigo Sheep and Wool Show from 16th to 22nd July known as “Ewes, Brews, Blues and Stews” a fundraiser for the Blues & Roots Festival in November– definitely two to go into your diary.

When Justin and Trev decided to develop Bendigo Beer, they had a three year plan, but have achieved their initial goals in the first 12 months. Craft beers are arguably the fastest growing segment in Australia with nine or ten new breweries opening each year. And these two guys are making sure that people learn about them. www.bendigobeer.com

Spreading The Word For Craft Beer

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Page 19: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 32 | 19

The classic Aussie hotel isn’t dead, in fact seeing what has been done in restoration of the Goldmines Hotel in Bendigo’s Golden Square, the public’s desire to hold onto vestiges of our past is alive and well. The building had been closed for some time and was falling into disrepair when the Walduck family from the Mornington Peninsular rescued it. Having a long connection with Bendigo, the family, Rick, Debra and daughters Natalie and Larni had dreamed of owning the pub and when it came up for auction, they snapped it up. That was the start of a long haul to restore the building and gardens, most of which was carried out by Rick. The result has transformed the Goldmines into a venue that is becoming a destination for locals and visitors alike. The beer garden in particular has been transformed from an overgrown, jungle into a very pretty courtyard suitable for a variety of

functions, including weddings and is a great spot for families. Chef Joshua Pearson has developed an exciting bistro menu, including all day breakfast and tapas menu on “recovery Sundays. The Goldmines also boasts a wide selection of craft beers and cider. Live music is a great draw card on Sundays and the ukulele jam sessions in the cellar on a Thursday night are fantastic fun.

It’s not just the hard work that can be seen in the restoration of this lovely old pub, the passion and dedication of the Walduck family is obvious in the atmosphere they have created that is gaining an ever growing following of appreciative patrons. The Goldmines is open Thursday to Sunday for breakfast, lunch and dinner and is available for functions.

Call 5442 2453 for more details or visit the Goldmines on Facebook.

The Goldmines – A Classic

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Page 20: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

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We all love it, we consume it in copious amounts and often feel guilty for eating it, although that guilt is eased somewhat by the latest studies that say chocolate is actually good for us. The jury is still out on the benefits of eating chocolate, however it doesn’t alter the fact that chocolate makes us feel good. So why do we have this love affair with a confectionary that was once too bitter to taste. With origins in the Mayan and Aztec cultures, cocoa beans, the basis of all chocolate, was once used as currency. It wasn’t until the conquistadors took it to the world and the monks added sugar for the Spanish court did chocolate begin to become the delight we know today. Even then it had a

way to go, until the Swiss introduced milk into the chocolate blend.

Naomi and Sue Vinden of Cocoa Chy have studied the fineries of good chocolate making, as is evident in the range they offer. However, not content to “sit on their laurels”, Naomi and Sue are always looking for ideas to add new and interesting flavours to their range and they’re not afraid to experiment and take risks. This results in delicious combinations that add a fascinating edge to the public’s decision of what to buy – dark or light, bland(ish) or with a bang making selection as much fun as the actual consumption of the chocolate.

Chocolate – Good or Bad? Who Cares!

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A well known sight at many Farmer’s Markets and selected outlets, Red Duck Beer is a microbrewery that has made an impact on lovers of craft beers. Starting life on the family’s Purrumbete Homestead, near Camperdown in 2005, the brewery relocated to Ballarat recently to make world class ales, using all natural ingredients. A family business headed by Scott Wilson-Brown, Red Duck is possibly the smallest microbrewery in Australia and whilst they plan to grow much larger, they’re not in a hurry to do so, preferring to proceed slowly, focusing on quality - quantity will follow. Like all good things, it didn’t happen overnight. The idea to move into brewing came when Scott’s

parents-in-law visited microbreweries on a trip to the UK. Knowing nothing about brewing, the development from the idea to a viable and popular product was a very steep learning curve. But it doesn’t stop there as Scott and his team are constantly adding to their knowledge base, developing new flavours and styles of craft beer.

Part of their growth plans is the development of a cellar door, which will hopefully be in place by the summer. In the meantime, take away sales are available Monday to Friday from the brewery at 11a Michael’s Drive, Alfredton. You may have to ring the doorbell if the guys are busy brewing or bottling out the back – it may be an idea to call ahead on 03 5332 0723.

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Page 21: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 32 | 21

Nestled between Ballarat & Daylesford in the heart of Victoria’s Spa Country, the Novotel Forest Resort is only 75 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD and the perfect weekend getaway. With 144 luxury suites all boasting spa baths and balconies overlooking the Forest or golf course, why not upgrade to one of the Fairway suites and enjoy the luxury of your own in room fireplace! Warm as toast on those cold winter nights!

Enjoy the tranquility of the Forest whilst partaking

in a round of golf on the Championship 18 hole course, or perhaps enjoy a relaxing massage in the boutique day spa, Spa 407. With a purpose built off road mountain bike trail and walking track, the Resort perfect to unwind, or get active! Top your day off with a delicious dinner in the a la carte restaurant, Harvest 383, where only the best, locally sourced produce is used to create mouthwatering dishes such as the braised Springbank lamb shanks, or the pan fired Maryborough chicken

supreme. The Novotel Forest Resort introduces new Executive Chef, Gerhard Zitzenbacher, to the team. Gerhard comes to the Resort having worked overseas for many years and has not only introduced the new Winter menu to Harvest 383, but ‘Down to a tea’ High Teas. The High Tea will be served each Sunday between 1.30pm – 3.30pm, and bookings will be essential. To make a booking call 03 5345 9600

Relax & Dine in the Forest

DinnerThursday–Tuesdayfrom 6pm

LunchFriday–Tuesday from 11amMenu from $9.50–$22

BreakfastOn weekends from 9am

Tuesday NightCurry & Hotpot $18

Friday NightFish Night with wine $24.50A La Carte also available

Speciality butcher selling our own farm grown venison and goat. Smallgoods, cheese, condiments and other game meats available.

Shop 3, 9 Howe Street, Daylesford • Phone 03 5348 3551 www.spavension.com.au • [email protected]

DOWN TO A TEA IN THE FORESTFrom 1st July, enjoy High Tea in the Forest every Sunday. Indulge in sweet and savoury treats from 1.30pm – 3.30pm. $39.95 per person.

Bookings essential. Phone 03 5345 9600.

Novotel Forest Resort Creswick1500 Midland Highway Creswick E [email protected]

Designed for natural l iv ing

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Chocolate – Good or Bad? Who Cares!

Love A Red Duck

Page 22: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

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C L E V E L A N D W I N E R Y

Dine amongst the vinesFRIDAY & SATURDAY DINNER:

Choose from our a’la carte or enjoy a sumptuous 3 course dinner.

SUNDAY BRUNCH (from 8am - 1pm): Country style buffet breakfast including

pancakes and freshly cooked eggs any style.

SUNDAY LUNCH (from 1pm - 3pm): A la carte gourmet fresh wood fire pizzas.

Bookings essential. Call:5429 9000 today!

55 Shannons Road, Lancefield e: [email protected]

B E L L I N Z O N A

Sumptuous SavoursSATURDAY HIGH TEA (from 12pm - 4pm):

Served at your table in the beautiful Heritage Room

SATURDAY DINNER:Choose from our a’la carte menu or enjoy

a sumptuous 3 course dinner.

Bookings essential. Call: 5348 2271 today!

77 Main Road, Hepburn Springs e: [email protected]

Ask us about

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Fabulous Gardens, Fantastic atmosphere. Dreams do come true.

2301 Midland HighwaySpringmount (Creswick)

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Wicked Temptations

03 5475 2222

Café / Wine BarBreakfast, Lunch & DinnerGourmet Coffee & Cakes

Open Wednesday to Sunday

31 - 37 High Street, [email protected]

Page 23: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 32 | 23

GOLDIES LANE WOODEND VICTORIA 03 5427 2273 [email protected]

www.campaspehouse.com.au

Indulge yourselvesin Romance...

Woodend’s Campaspe Country House with its gorgeous art deco décor surrounded by beautiful gardens is a hotel that provides quality service and excellent dining in the intimate restaurant. Head Chef, Steffen Jenson is passionate about using local and seasonal produce that showcases a distinctive style and technique. As Steffen says himself “There is nothing pretentious in my cooking – just a humble and desperate search for perfection”. Perfection seems to be what Steffen has found going by the reviews and first hand accounts of his dishes. Until September, Campaspe Country House is offering Private Degustation Dinners for up to fourteen people, minimum of eight that is a fantastic way to share a special time with friends and family – maybe for that special

occasion. Degustation is not a word you’ll find in the dictionary or any Thesaurus, but it is a way of dining where you can indulge in a variety of exquisite dishes in small(ish) servings, usually matched by regional wines that enhance the entire meal.

Call the reservation team at Campaspe Country House on 5427 2273 or visit the website www.campasiehouse.com.au to discover more.

Fine Dining in Woodend

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Page 24: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

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By Nardia Baxter-Keene

As much as I like the idea of being a dairy farmer, I know a lot more about cheese than I do about cows, so I have stuck to what I know. However, we are fortunate to be able to get milk from two local farms that stock two different breeds of dairy cattle. One farm has a Friesian Holstein herd and the other a Jersey herd. Now for the non-dairy cow fancier; Friesians are the big black and white cows that are often quite temperamental, while the Jerseys are the smaller caramel coloured cows with big brown eyes that are very placid. At the cellar door we get quite a

number of people who tell us stories about the jersey cow their family had as a house cow when they were young. They’re lovely stories but you can’t help but wonder if in 10 years time how many people will be able to tell such stories, especially with the growth of corporate farms?

Many people think that milk is milk is milk, but not so. The differences between Friesian Holstein and Jersey milks can be noticed simply by looking at the milk itself, not to mention the smell and taste. The Friesian Holstein milk is a creamy white colour while the Jersey milk has a soft

buttery yellow hue. There are also differences in the amounts of protein and fat in the milk between the two breeds which means that we need to change the way we make our cheeses depending on which milk we are using. So it is unsurprising that these differences between the milks then transfers through to our cheeses in both colour and taste. The Friesian Holstein milk cheeses taste light and complex while the Jersey milk cheeses are rich and buttery. If you find it hard to believe, come to our cellar door in Creswick to see and taste and we can show you the difference.

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Page 25: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 32 | 25

By Rebecca Djordjevic

I’m always asked, why is organic food overpriced - is it really better than food grown conventionally? The answer without a doubt is yes! It is not overpriced; you get what you pay for - a system which looks after nature not against her?

The Organic food system is grown with love by farmers who choose to work with nature. It is a choice of what you prefer, at the end of the day conventional food will still partly fuel your body, but organic takes your body to a holistic and superior level of health that you won’t get from anything else. Food is a sacred experience and should be as appreciated as the most important decisions in our life - after all we are nothing without our health.

Growing food conventionally is about cutting costs, saving time and getting more yields

for less input at the expense of important nutrients, which should be standard in our food system. I wonder if convenience really is killing us. Have we lost the ability and desire to grow our own food? As society grows and the demands for expediency makes us time poor, will we lose the skills of our grandparents of providing for our families by growing and/or sourcing great local food and making do with what we have?

Farmers growing organically think more about the soil and how to feed and nurture what’s under our feet more than the food, veggies and fruit that grow on top. Organic farming is constantly working on improving the soil so that the soil is full of nutrients, minerals and health to infuse into our food, which is then passed on to you. Organic farmers take time to observe nature. They realise that soil is

the most important resource and make choices to love the soil, respect it and feed it with the most abundant nutritious natural food so the plants feed themselves - just like nature intended. It is a soil philosophy that is infused with a lot of commitment, time and definitely hard work. Think about this love and support process that goes on behind the scenes, all for you.

There are some amazing people in our region who live and work organically and holistically inspiring others to adopt a healthier lifestyle. In Central Victoria we are spoilt for choice and we are all the better for living in a region that on the whole, cares for nature. Choosing organic is more than just about food; it is a complete lifestyle decision and your body and soul will love you for it.

Organic, much more than food;it’s a lifestyle choice.

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Page 26: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

26 | www.secretsmagazine.com.au

By Bryley Drummond

It’s the sense of community that get’s you; signs hanging on a fence, the slow rhythm and bustle of people milling about, the hum of 30 conversations all around you like a warm patchwork quilt. It’s farmers’ market day!

I love seeing all the produce on display. Even on a cold winter’s morning, the vivid colours of heirloom vegetables or freshly baked bread never fail to make me smile. With my hands wrapped around a locally blended cup of organic tea (or locally roasted fair trade coffee), it’s hard not to buy on the spot – but I show restraint, and try and do a lap of the market first – not as easy as it sounds.

Unless you have a really clear purpose, you cannot just walk quickly through. You bump in to your neighbour, a work colleague, or even the local mayor buying a jar of chutney.

Take another step and the golden amber of sunlit honey collected just up the road or the mountain of creamy skinned pumpkins – picked only the day before, catches your eye.

You try and walk a little further, but an old friend from school catches your arm or you pause to marvel at the juicy red tomatoes or plump olives. A few steps further and you are offered some cheese made in the Brie style, or a taste of some gorgeous tomato relish at the stall nearby.

And the smells - the beautiful chunky beef pies, or barbequed sausages and onions, or steamed dumplings – and I haven’t even walked more than ten metres…

It’s an impossible task to cram all that I love about farmers’ markets into a tiny space. Join me at the Bendigo Community Farmers’ Market on the second Saturday of each month, or any one of the seven other accredited markets in Central Victoria, from Riddells Creek, Lancefield, Daylesford, through to Woodend and Kyneton, across to Bannockburn (Golden Plains) and up to Echuca – at least one every weekend.

Shop at an accredited market and have confidence in the authenticity of the producers; you know that the stallholder knows the product intimately.

The VFMA Accreditation Program celebrates the work of genuine farmers, specialty makers and farmers’ markets, and ensures their credibility in a proudly transparent process. At regional markets, 75% of the stallholders must be accredited and have passed rigorous testing for our benefit - no re-sellers here!.

Growing tired of the monotonous supermarket experience? Enjoy fresh, regional and seasonal produce in a friendly, relaxed environment – at your local farmers’ market.

For more information visit www. vicfarmersmarkets.org.au

Farmer’s Markets Hit the Senses

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Images by Emma Clohesy Embrace Images

Page 27: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 32 | 27

Every 4th Saturdayof the month.

Enquiries: 0407 860 320

By Erena Norgard of Victorian Farmers Markets Association

Visit an accredited farmers’ market on any weekend and you’ll see a community of growers who are exceptionally proud of their produce, keen to connect with customers. Just picked seasonal fruit and vegetables, cheese, bread and locally pressed olive oils are just some of the bounty on offer.

Farmers’ markets have a proud but recent history in Victoria and their popularity is rising significantly. It’s this growth that has inspired an accreditation program developed by the Victorian Farmers’ Market Association. Through an independent assessment panel, the VFMA accredits genuine producers to ensure

that customers are buying direct from the grower or maker. Using the same system, farmers’ markets themselves can become accredited once they have a critical mass of producers accredited with the VFMA. These days consumers are an inquisitive bunch and with good reason. Customers want to know more about the provenance, variety and production methods used to grow the food they eat. Far from the sterile environment of shopping centres, farmers’ markets are characterised by the fervent conversations of shoppers learning more about food directly from the source, getting advice about cooking and above all, supporting our farmers. For dates of markets in Victoria, visit www.vicfarmersmarkets.org.au

For The Love of Farmers’ Markets

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Page 28: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

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There is nothing more tasty or better for you than home grown vegetables from your own garden, but some people are reluctant to plant a vegie patch, preferring a more ornamental garden. However, these pictures from the Garden of St Erth in Blackwood show how vegetables can be just as pleasing to the eye as a row of roses. Why not try it – you’ll not only have an attractive garden to gaze upon, but delicious food to dine upon as well.

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Looks Good Enough To Eat

Simmons Reef Road, Blackwood | 03 5368 6514 | www.diggers.com.au/gardenStErth.shtml

Nursery & Café Try our famous Devonshire Tea

Available for weddings & functions

The Gardenof St. Erth

Page 29: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 32 | 29

Where else can you ask the butcher “whose beef is it this week?” One of the beauties of regional living is knowing, in the most part, where food comes from and in the case of the meat that is placed on the table, you can know when the animal was butchered and how long it has hung in the cool room, simply by asking the local supplier. Fiona Lindsay

from Wright on Broadway in Dunolly insists on knowing the origins of the food she serves to her diners and that it is fresh and of the best quality available. Wright on Broadway has a “First Saturday Dinner Club’’, which has become very popular on the first Saturday evening each month. The menu changes depending on what is locally available and

what is ready for picking in the garden. The food is great and as Wright on Broadway carries a wide selection of regional wines, it makes for a Saturday night to really look forward to. However, as numbers are limited, you will need to book by calling 5468 1245 or 0428 322 208.

Knowing Your Supplier

Braelands Free Range Sweet Cins Chocolates

Braelands Beef and Sheep farm is a family run property of six generations, nestled in the Pentland Hills, just west of Melbourne. Louise and Aaron McWhinney are small producers of quality beef and lamb who respect their animals and give them a happy and low stress life. They don’t want to, nor are they able to produce huge quantities of meat, preferring to focus on the quality of their product. Grown and processed locally in a sustainable and natural way ensures the integrity of the meat you put on your platet. You can find Braelands Beef at either Ballan Farmers Market or their online shop at www.braelandsbeef.com.au.

Chocolate is good for you and even if it wasn’t, we would convince ourselves that it is, such is the allure of this amazing, sweet morsel. Cindy Crozier of Sweet Cins is a Kyneton based business that handcrafts quality chocolate made with premium Belgium converture chocolate with fillings made from locally sourced ingredients, wherever possible. You can find Sweet Cins at the Daylesford Farmers Market of Kyneton Farmers Market, or if you miss them there, you can buy direct from www.sweetcins.com.au. If you have a special occasion coming up, why not call Cindy on 0448 103 628 or email [email protected] to discuss ideas.

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Page 30: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

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Dining, drinking, nibbling or just plain indulging is one of the exciting features of visiting or living in Central Victoria. The choices on offer are enormous with something to appeal to every palate and budget – from quick take-away to high end dining, coupled with the excellent wines produced in the region and the growing number of craft beers available - no one will ever go away hungry. From great Farmer’s Markets – one on every weekend in a “town near you”, to cute and quirky café’s like Daylesford’s Cliffy’s, to more formal dining or great pubs that have moved from the simple “parma” to innovative, restaurant quality fare. The coffee culture is alive and very well indeed in and around the towns of the region – overheard recently in a local shop were a number of people discussing the best places to

find great coffee. Surprisingly, the list extended across the region from Bendigo to Ballarat and all points in between. Great chefs, are finding their way into the region, which has raised the cuisine fare even higher, together with the standard of waiting staff. There is still room for improvement, but with all the competition around, good restaurant owners are very keen to find and train good staff. This just a snapshot of what you can find around the region, not to mention the numerous “farm gate” outlets to be found on country roads. Take up the challenge and travel around exploring some amazing gastronomic experiences, you never know what treasure you might find.

Whatever Takes Your Fancy

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By Julie Kendall

Beaufort is a town that sits on the Western Highway, just west of Ballarat. For a small town, Beaufort is well catered for in the food stakes and the new(ish) Three Troupers Pantry was recently featured on television’s Coxy’s Big Break showcasing their craft beer and local produce. Along the way, you’ll find Sparrows Café, renowned locally for it’s great coffee. The Home Made Café that offers a large range of gluten free foods and specialty cakes and combining art with food is the Imperial

Egg Gallery with its impressive display of egg art and yummy morning teas. Columbine Cottage Café and Nursery has a reputation for excellent meals and an extensive nursery, but bookings are recommended here. In the mix is a great bakery, Angels Café and Gifts and local produce is available at the craft shops and Eclectique. The Church Gallery and Tearooms also carries gift and home wares and we should mention Geoffrey’s Milk Bar, the Golden Age and Beaufort Hotels for good meals. Keep in mind that Beaufort is

central to many wineries of the region as well as other recreational pursuits. Oh and let’s not forget the monthly Beaufort Market held in the middle of town on the first Saturday. You can find more about this interesting town and the surrounding region from the Beaufort Resource and Information Centre. So next time you find yourself tempted to just drive through Beaufort, why not stop and explore – you just may be surprised at what you’ll find.

Beaufort – A Foodie’s Destination

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Page 31: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 32 | 31

It was long anticipated and promised to be an exhibition to go into the record books, but no-one could have predicted the impact that the Grace Kelly: Style Icon show would have on Bendigo. Running for three months, from March to June, the visitors through the doors of the Bendigo Art Gallery have surpassed all expectations and it hadn’t finished when Secrets went to press. With over a week to go, visitor numbers

bandied about are in the range of 135,000 to 150,000, injecting more than $17 million into Bendigo’s economy. When you consider that the permanent population of Bendigo is around 100,000 people, these figures are staggering. The collection, which has previously been shown in Monaco, Rome, New York and London, was a major coup for this regional city as it was the only location chosen to host

the exhibition in Australia. The Bendigo Art Gallery, under the direction of Karen Quinlan is gaining a reputation for staging innovative and exciting shows that attract a lot of attention. We don’t know what they have in the pipeline in the future, but it is sure to be good – they have set the bar very high and we look forward to the next episode.

Grace Kelly Breaks All Records

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There is a misconception that “country folk” are starved for culture – wrong! The cities and towns of regional Victoria positively drip with cultural activities from music and arts festivals, to incredible exhibitions, writer’s festivals and so much more. Even tiny towns like Dunolly boast an active theatre group who recently presented a show to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Dunolly courthouse – a building lovingly and tastefully restored to it’s former glory and where the play “Trial by Jury” was staged earlier this year to local acclaim. This can be seen as a precursor to the Gilbert & Sullivan Festival in October that will kick off with a Grand Opening Parade on the 13th October, followed by a country fair, puppet shows, a “Pirates of

Penzance” sing along, an encore of “Trial by Jury, more concerts and dinners, finishing off with a Grand Finale on Sunday 14th October.

For more information contact the Dunolly Rural Transaction Centre on [email protected]

Culture In The Country

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Page 32: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

32 | www.secretsmagazine.com.au

Winter begins with the solstice at zero degrees of Cancer.

Cancer is a great winter sign with its watery nature. What could be more perfect than inside by fire, pondering our inner emotions, while we are lashed by wild, wet, weather? Indulge your depths Cancer.

Capricorn is stabilising as Pluto moves ever so slowly through this sign. Pluto only moves about three degrees a year so it is only a few Capricorns, those born between 29th December to January 2nd that are sombrely delving their depths making miraculous personal discoveries. For later January Capricorns this is a consolidating period of just plain hard work.

Leo is a winter sign in southern hemisphere. The up time is around the full moon which falls close to the July 31/Aug 1 pagan ritual time. This ritual is a Leo ritual so we expect a big warm fire with colourful costumes and

movement, great to warm the dampened heart.

Aquarius gets back to mundane existence. After years of doubt and uncertainty, Neptune has gone to Pisces leaving Aquarius to get back into your mental spaces and reform dogmas to unleash on all of us, under the guise of great ideas for humanity. This year Aquarius may finally feel like they are moving forward, the is a plan and the purpose are again visible.

Virgo hallelujah Mars has gone direct in this sign. After such a frustrating start to the year, all of a sudden everything is happening at once. The anger is still around until the end of July but at least we can do something about the causes now. It is really a time for projects, being absorbed in details. Enjoy it.

Pisces is at her spiritual and healing best. The early Pisceans are probably not reading this but rather lost in

bliss of healing wonderlands. Both Neptune and Chiron are journeying through the early degrees of Pisces. Chiron in front digging up the wounds and Neptune slowly travels behind to reform the visions or maybe just wiping yourself out. Takes time but interesting terrain.

Libra Saturn still trudges through your late degrees. It has been a long time now but will depart your sign in October, so spring should be just perfect for romantic love affairs which you adore. Until then acknowledge what solid, responsible beings you are and rejoice in how wonderfully stable you life is, even if it has been long and boring with no frills attached.

Aries sniff the freedom in the air. Uranus is bowling through the early degrees of Aries and shaking up the structures. Aries finds voice and is no longer troubled by oppressive people, places or situations. Adventures can really begin here so don’t miss the opportunity.

Winter Astrologyby Lyndall McQuinn

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Page 33: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 32 | 33

Scorpio slowly, silently withdraws into watery winter ways. Scorpio likes this; life is in your hands. If you are in a sociable frame of mind over winter then play, if not then the dormant, inward, sleeping effect of winter suits your character. Arise refreshed for spring.

Taurus the abundant Jupiter has rolled out of your path into Gemini. Let’s hope you made hay whilst the sun shone. If so you can now ponder what to spend your riches on; if not you can lament the lost opportunity.

Gemini you are the lucky ones with Jupiters arrival in your

sign. This means your already active thought processes are ready for acceleration. Lets grab the opportunity to speak up and let others know what you think. Write to your heart’s content and if this fails why not take a trip.

Sagittarius is still cruising along off the radar. There are a couple of side influences that can affect Sagittarius. The revolution that is occurring in Aries flows easily to you and the expansive Jupiter is across the wheel from you which could give travel ideas coming your way offered by other sources. •

For a personal reading with Lyndall call 0428 425 923 or www.lyndallmcquinn.com

Lyndall McQuinn

Shop 2, 52A Vincent St, Daylesford VIC 3460(located in Coles walkway off Vincent Street)

t: 03 5348 4277 | e: [email protected]

Opening hours...Mon, Wed, Thurs & Fri 10am-4pmSat & Sun 10am-2pm(Closed Tuesdays)

44 Piper Street,Kyneton 3444Phone03 5422 6614

PatchworkQuiltingKnittingYarnPatternsKitsClassesScented GiftwareAnne Klein Watches

Page 34: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

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Markets & Visitor Information Centres

MarketsVisitor Information Centres

EVERY SATURDAY WESLEY HILL MARKETS Pyrenees Hwy, Castlemaine 7.30am – 1pm Ph: 0418 117 953 KYNETON COUNTRY MARKET All indoors at 52-56 Mollison St 10am – 4pm Ph: 0458 712 760

EVERY SUNDAY DAYLESFORD SUNDAY MARKET Daylesford Railway Station, Daylesford 8am – 4pm, Ph: 03 5348 35031ST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH BALLAN MARKET Lions Club, Main Street Ph: 03 5368 1203BEAUFORT MARKET Memorial Park, Beaufort 9am - 1pm Ph: 5349 1184 Mob: 0447 196 705 DARLEY MARKET BACCHUS MARSH Darley Football Oval, Fitzroy Street 7am – 1pm Ph: 0488 345 145 DAYLESFORD FARMERS MARKET Daylesford Primary School Oval, Vincent St. Daylesford Ph: 0421 458 891

WOODEND FARMERS MARKET High Street, Woodend 9am – 1pm Ph: 0407 860 320

2ND SATURDAY OF THE MONTH

BALLARAT LAKESIDE FARMERS MARKET* (also last Saturday of the month) Lake Wendouree Ballarat 9am – 1pm Ph: 03 03 9528 4985BENDIGO COMMUNITY FARMERS MARKET Rosalind Park end of Williamson St. 9am – 1pm Ph: 0498 186 491 www.bcfm.org.auKYNETON FARMERS MARKET & KYNETON MAKERS MARKET St Paul’s Park, Piper Street, Kyneton 8am-1pm Ph: 03 5422 10253RD SATURDAY OF THE MONTHBUNNINYONG FARMERS MARKET Buninyong Town Hall 9am –1pm Ph: 03 5341 3080

DARLEY MARKET BACCHUS MARSH Darley Football Oval, Fitzroy Street 7am – 1pm Ph: 0488 345 145

TRENTHAM FARMERS MARKET Trentham Town Square, High Street Ph: 03 5424 1185

4th SATURDAY OF THE MONTH

LANCEFIELD FARMERS MARKET High Street 9am-1pm Ph: 0407 860 320

1ST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH

CASTLEMAINE FARMERS MARKET Mostyn Street 9.00am-1pm Ph: 03 5470 6340

GISBORNE ALL SEASONS MARKET Gisborne Village Shopping Centre 9am-3pm Ph: 03 5426 2448GISBORNE FARMERS AND PRODUCE MARKET 9am-1pm Ph: 03 5428 3043 MARYBOROUGH SUNDAY TOURIST MARKET Carisbrook Trotting Complex, Maryborough 8am-1:30pm Ph: 03 5461 2819

3RD SUNDAY OF THE MONTH TALBOT FARMERS MARKET Scandinavian Crescent and Camp Street 10am–2pm Ph: 03 5463 2001 WOODEND MARKET High Street Ph: 03 5427 2255

4TH SUNDAY OF THE MONTH AVOCA RIVERSIDE MARKET 0488 177 647DUNOLLY MARKET Broadway, Dunolly Jeff Monk 03 5468 1623 TRENTHAM MARKET Victoria Street 9am-2pm Ph: 03 5424 8223

Avoca Visitor Information Centre 03 5465 1000 www.pyrenees.org.auBacchus Marsh Visitor Info. Centre 03 5367 7488 www.discoverbacchusmarch.orgBallarat Visitor Information Centre 1800 446 633 www.visitballarat.com.auBeaufort Visitor Information Centre 03 5349 2604 www.pyrenees.org.auBendigo Visitor Information Centre 1800 813 153 www.bendigotourism.comCastlemaine Visitor Info. Centre 1800 171 888 www.maldoncastlemaine.comCentral Goldfields Visitor Info. Centre 03 5460 4511 www.visitmaryborough.com.auClunes Tourist Information Outlet 03 5345 3896 www.visitclunes.com.auCreswick Interperative Centre 03 5345 1114 www.visitcreswick.com.auDaylesford Visitor Information Centre 03 5321 6123 www.visitdaylesford.com.auHeathcote Visitor Information Centre 03 5433 3121 www.heathcote.org.auKyneton Visitor Information Centre 03 5422 6110 www.visitmacedonranges.comMaldon Visitor Information Centre 03 5475 2569 www.maldoncastlemaine.comTrentham Visitor Information Outlet 03 5424 1178 www.visittrentham.com.auWoodend Visitor Info. Centre 03 5427 2033 www.visitmacedonranges.com

Page 35: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012

SECRETS MAGAZINE | ISSUE 32 | 35

Visitor Information Centres

ethic.

bulk organic wholefoodsbulk biodegradable cleaning products

fair trade coffee & teakids playground

café - coffee/tea/snacks

63 urquhart stwoodend, vic 3442

03 5427 [email protected]

a sustainable shopping experience

12-14 Piper Street,Kyneton 3444

Phone 03 5422 3683www.flouchs.com.au

Wednesday – FridayLunch 10 am - 3 pmDinner 6 pm - close

Saturday - 10am til lateSunday - 10am til 3 pm

Serving breakfast Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 12:30 pm. Sunday roast through winter.

UnderStandable - approachable - aFFordableGreat FooD, GooD Wine, exceLLent coFFee & caKe

GOOD FOOD GUIDE2012REVIEWED BY

Page 36: Secrets Magazine - Issue 32 - Winter 2012