NEW VIEW - JANUARY 2022HIGHLIGHTS - THE GALLERY LOUNGE REOPENS WITH A SPECIAL - RACV

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NEW VIEW - JANUARY 2022HIGHLIGHTS - THE GALLERY LOUNGE REOPENS WITH A SPECIAL - RACV
HIGHLIGHTS
JANUARY 2022

                   NEW VIEW
                      THE GALLERY LOUNGE
                    REOPENS WITH A SPECIAL
                          EXHIBITION

KEEPING
MEMBERS
CONNECTED
racv.com.au/club
NEW VIEW - JANUARY 2022HIGHLIGHTS - THE GALLERY LOUNGE REOPENS WITH A SPECIAL - RACV
WELCOM E                                                                                                                                                                      IN THIS
                                                                                                                                                                                     ISSUE

      Celebrate the good things in life
                                                                                                                                                                                         4 Don’t miss: Seize the moment

                        J O H N S L AT T E R Y Club & Membership Committee Chairman                                                                                                      6 Insider news: Lasting impression

                                                                                                                                                                                         8 Cover story: New view
                          The New Year brings a new view at the Club. The refurbished Gallery Lounge
                         has reopened with an exhibition celebrating Victoria and Victorian artists                                                                                      10 Eat & drink: Tiger balm
                        (page 8), giving us all a chance to reconnect at the Club. Although we must
                     remain vigilant and maintain our COVID-safe practices, we are optimistic that                                                                                       12 Wellness: Team spirit
       the events we have planned will go ahead, including special dinners to mark Lunar New Year                                                                                        14 Meet & connect: Give it a shot
       and Valentine’s Day (page 10). Perhaps the new year means the possibility of a new you? Club
       personal trainer Dave Renton has tips to help you reach your goals (page 12). Along with                                                                                          16 Escape: Fun and gains
       the Australian Open, there’s plenty of action planned for our squash courts with Club teams
                                                                                                                                                                                         18 Calendar: What’s on
       competing for the Alan Clancy Cup (page 14). If you have children there are many fun and
       educational activities you can do in the Yarra Valley, while staying at or visiting Healesville
       Country Club & Resort (page 16). Above all, stay safe and I wish you all the best for 2022.
                                                                                                                                                                                         S TAY C O N N E C T E D

                                                                                                                                                                                         To update your contact details,
                        R O B E V E R E T T RACV Club General Manager                                                                                                                    or if you have a membership
                                                                                                                                                                                         inquiry, please contact the Club
                           It was wonderful to see so many Club Members enjoy the Christmas and
                                                                                                                                                                                         Membership team on:
                         New Year’s Eve festivities at both properties. Although numbers were reduced                                                                                    l 1300 501 501

                                                                                                                                                                                    6
                      due to COVID-19 protocols, the support and understanding of Members was
                                                                                                                                                                                         l clubmembership@racv.com.au
       appreciated. The reopening of the Gallery Lounge at City Club sets the scene for a more
       positive and progressive year. Along with refurbishment of the Shared Workspace and Wine                                                                        Reimaging the     l racv.com.au/club
                                                                                                          COVER IMAGE: EARTH BY LOUISE FORTHUN IN SITU IN THE
       Bar, Club Members can enjoy a contemporary and integrated experience on Level 1. We will                                                                         coffee lounge
                                                                                                          GALLERY LOUNGE AT CITY CLUB. PHOTO BY MATT HARVEY                              O N L I N E AC C O U N T
       continue our program of upgrades in late January with the refurbishment of the ground floor,                                                                                      l racv.com.au/login
       the first uplift since 2005 (page 6). Club Members also have much to enjoy at the Country Club
       with the opening of two new dining venues: Riddell’s Green and Banyalla. RACV Club is in a
       strong position to respond to any COVID challenges that may come our way, but I remind Club
                                                                                                                                                                                         BOOKINGS AND OPENING TIMES

                                                                                                          12
       Members that COVID-safe rules are still in place to protect them, their guests and staff. Book        Get that                                           Cool reasons to
       ahead and scan the QR-code each time you visit a different venue or facility. Please check our                                                           stay at City Club        For the latest information, visit
                                                                                                             summer glow
       website and email communications for updates, and visit racv.com.au/clubbookings for opening                                                                                      racv.com.au/clubbookings
                                                                                                          Team
       hours. I would like to thank the wonderful community of Club Members for all their support
                                                                                                          spirit
       last year, and I look forward to welcoming you back to the Club for another year.
                                                                                                                                                                                         G E T T H E L AT E S T N E W S

                                                                                                                                                                                         l Visit our What’s On page at

       CALL US OR SEND AN EMAIL                                                                                                                                                          racv.com.au/club-whats-on
                                                                                                                                                                                         l Visit Club Highlights online and
              CIT Y CLUB                                               H EALESVI LLE COU NTRY CLU B                                                                                      download the latest Highlights at
        C     l 9944 8888                                       H      l 5962 4899                                                                                                       racv.com.au/club-highlights
              l club@racv.com.au                                       l healesville@racv.com.au

       PRODUCTION E DITOR : B L ANCH E CL AR K                                                                                                                                           J O I N T H E C O N V E R S AT I O N

                                                                                                                                                                                                    L I K E U S O N FAC E B O O K
       RACV Board Of Directors                                                                                                                                                                      facebook.com.au/RACVClub
                                                       l John Slattery* l Julie Green* l Simon
       President and Chairman: Geoff Cosgriff
                                                       McDowell* l Stephanie Reeves* l Denice Pitt
       Deputy Chairman: Greg Robinson

                                                                                                                                                                            14
                                                       l Patricia Kelly l Julie Stanley l Graeme Willis                                                                                             FO L LO W U S O N I N S TAG R A M
       Managing Director and CEO: Neil Taylor
                                                       *Club & Membership Committee                                                                                                                 instagram.com/racvclub
                                                                                                                                                                            Meet &
                                                                                                                                                                            connect
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NEW VIEW - JANUARY 2022HIGHLIGHTS - THE GALLERY LOUNGE REOPENS WITH A SPECIAL - RACV
DON’T
     MISS

                                                                                THE CLUB MENTORING PROGRAM                                                                                     INXSIVE, THE INXS TRIBUTE
                                                                                IS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY FOR                                                                                     DINNER, IS SHAPING UP TO BE A
                                                                                CAREER DEVELOPMENT                                                                                             NIGHT OF NIGHTS IN JANUARY

      SEIZE THE MOMENT
                                                                                                                                                                                                         PCELRUPBA C
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       Make the most of your Membership and take advantage of the                                                EXPLORE THE CITY
                                                                                                                                                                                We have exciting events planned for 2022.
       events and activities that are scheduled for coming months                                                Kenneth Park’s popular walking tours kick off this year
                                                                                                                                                                                 Bookmark our What’s On page for the
                                                                                                                 with an exploration of the architecture and landmarks
                                                                                                                                                                                         latest information at

      L
                                                                                                                 around Acland Street, St Kilda. Enjoy this colourful
          earn a new skill, become a mentor, explore       Member interest groups                                                                                                    racv.com.au/club-whats-on
                                                                                                                 social setting with other Club Members.
          the city, spend more time with family
                                                                  Member interest groups are back for 2022.                                                                            Plan and book ahead for your
          and friends, live life to the full -                                                                   l Sun 16 Jan, 10am-noon, meeting at Palais
                                                                    Club Members interested in travel, books,                                                                              next visit to the Club at
       whatever your New Year’s resolution,                                                                      Theatre, $25pp tour + tea/coffee. Book here.
                                                                      card games and cycling will begin                                                                                  racv.com.au/clubbookings
       you’ll find an event, activity,
                                                                       meeting again in January and February.
       Member interest group or dining                                                                           MORE TIME WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS
                                                                        Check the calendar on page 18 or
       venue at the Club to suit.
                                                                         find out more about the groups at       Discover one of the Club’s new dining venues at
                                                                         racv.com.au/club-highlights             Healesville Country Club and Resort. Enjoy the South
       LEARN A NEW SKILL                                                                                                                                                   YARRA VALLEY CUP – A DAY AT THE RACES
                                                                                                                 American-inspired menu at Riddell’s Green and modern
       Circus skills                                                                                             cuisine at Banyalla. Or book for our Lunar New Year or
                                                                           BECOME A MENTOR                                                                                 Get in quick for a great day out at the Yarra Valley Cup
                                                                                                                 Valentine’s Day dining events. See page 11.
       Children can run away with                                                                                                                                          with the RACV Club. Enjoy a buffet lunch, inclusive
       the circus these school holidays,                                  Did you know Club Members have                                                                   of beverages, in a private marquee exclusive to Club
                                                                                                                 LIVE LIVE TO THE FULL
       and learn how to spin plates, hula                                complimentary access to an                                                                        Members. Contact Healesville Country Club & Resort
       hoop and more. It’s a fun way to get                            exclusive Mentoring Program?              INXS was arguably Australia’s greatest rock export.       directly to add accommodation.
       them off their devices and boost their                       Applications are open for the first intake   You can rock out or sit back when cover band INXSIVE
       confidence. There are two sessions.                     of this year’s Mentoring Program, which starts    deliver an energetic night of INXS hits at this event.    l Sun 20 Mar, 11.30am-5.30pm, departs and
                                                       in February. Through a structured 14-week program,                                                                  returns to Healesville Country Club and Resort,
       l Thu 13 Jan, 2pm-2.50pm, 5-10 years; 3pm-                                                                                                                          $180pp for buffet lunch, beverage package +
                                                       mentors and mentees share knowledge, insights and         l Sat 29 Jan, 8pm-10.30pm, Healesville Country
       3:50pm, 11+ years City Club, $25pp.                                                                       Club & Resort, $135pp dinner + show. Book here.           return transfers.
                                                       experiences. Check details on the What’s On page.

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NEW VIEW - JANUARY 2022HIGHLIGHTS - THE GALLERY LOUNGE REOPENS WITH A SPECIAL - RACV
INSIDER
     NEWS

                                                                                                                                                                                      BISTRO
                                                                                                                                                                                      RESTAURANT
                                                                                                                                                                                                                   WO R T H

                                                                                                                                                                                                                   C E LE B R AT I N G

                                                                                                                                                                                                                   R
                                                                                                                                                                                                                        ACV City Club won the Superior
                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Accommodation Award in this year’s
                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Tourism Accommodation Australia (Vic)
                                                                                                                                                                                                                   Awards, and was also a finalist for the Hotel Day
                                                                                                                                                                                                                   Spa award.
       The City Club’s                                                                                                                                                                                             “This was our first time of being nominated for
                                                                                                                                                                                                                   these categories, and we were delighted to be
       ground floor is                                                                                                                                                                                             finalists for each category,” City Club Operations
       about to get its first                                                                                                                                                                                      Manager Amanda Rottmann says.

       makeover in                                                                                                                                                                                                 She says the Superior Accommodation Award
                                                                                                                                                                                                                   was won due to the hard-working Housekeeping

                                                           LASTING IMPRESSION
       15 years, ensuring its                                                                                                                                                                                      and Front Office teams and their focus on
                                                                                                                                                                                                                   making Club Members and their guests feel
       longevity for current                                                                                                                                                                                       welcomed, well rested and comfortable when
       and future Members                                                                                                                                                                                          staying at the Club.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                   “This recognition of the fantastic work our
                                                                                                                                                                                                                   team do daily was excitedly accepted by our

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                                                                                                                                                                                                                   Housekeeping Manager Maria Salvo (pictured)
               lub Member Sharon D’Costa is impressed with          west, looking back towards the foyer, and shows the                                “Over the past three years we’ve seen the inception of      and Front Office Manager Sam Patrick,”
               what’s in store for the ground floor at City Club.   incorporation of more greenery and seating options that                            the Shared Workspace, the uplift of the Wine Bar, and       Amanda says. “Their teams are delighted and so
                                                                         will introduce a new intimacy and comfort.                                    now the Gallery Lounge and pre-dining areas are ready       grateful for this recognition from our Victorian
       As one of the Club Members                                                                                                                                                                                  hospitality peers. We are now eligible for the
                                                                                                                                                       for Members to use and enjoy,” she says.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                   National Awards!”
       who gave feedback on the                                                  The illustration of the coffee lounge (left)
       architectural visualisations                                                shows how the increased ambience will                               “The next step is the refresh of the ground floor, which
                                                    COFFEE LOUNGE                                                                                                                                                  COMMUNITY CLUB AWARDS
       of the new-look entry,                                                        make it the go-to spot for catching up                            will reinvigorate that space and improve the arrival
       reception area and                                                              with friends and colleagues.                                    experience for Club Members. Many have appreciated          RACV Club General Manager Rob Everett was
       Bistro, she believes the                                                                                                                        the look and feel of the Shared Workspace on Level 1,       named Club Manager of the Year and City Club
       design amalgamates a                                                              These ground-floor works are                                  and that big, beautiful space on the ground floor will be   Commis Chef Harrison Caruana was named
       modern layout with the                                                            scheduled to take place between                               enhanced in a similar way.”                                 Young Employee of the Year at the recent
       traditions and values                                                             late January and April 2022.                                                                                              Community Clubs Victoria awards. Best Club
       underlying the RACV                                                                                                                                                                                         Bistro (regional) went to Healesville Country
       brand.                                                                           The works are part of a series of                                                                                          Club & Resort. The awards acknowledge the
                                                                                                                                       REM
                                                                                                                                         R AP TAI     In late January 2022, City Club’s Bourke Street              significant contribution clubs make to the social
                                                                                       upgrades that began in 2019 to              FMOP           C
                                                                                                                                                      entrance will be closed. Members can enter                   and economic fabric of Victoria.
       Sharon counts the Bistro                                                                                                                O
                                                                                                                                PIAN

                                                                                      modernise and enhance both Club                           KNS   the Club via New Chancery Lane. The Bistro and
       as one of her favourite places                                               properties for the benefit of current and                         Coffee Lounge will be relocated to the Tarrant
       for lunch on a work day, and                                               future Members.                                                     Room on Level 1. The main entrance to the gym will           WINE LIST OF THE YEAR AWARDS
                                                                                                                                RE

                                                                                                                                                  S

       the introduction of plants and                                                                                              S                  be temporarily closed.                                       The Members Dining Room has retained its
                                                                                                                                       OU RC
                                                                                                                                                E

       new seating arrangements adds to the                                 The recent uplift of Level 1 at City Club is now                                                                                       “three glass rating” at the Wine List of the
       venue’s appeal.                                              complete, and the new-look Gallery Lounge will reopen                             There will be signs redirecting Members to these             Year Awards. City Club Sommelier Christian
                                                                    in January with an exhibition of artworks by Victorian                            facilities via an alternate route. If you’re unsure,         Maier says the rating reaffirms the Club’s
       “The redesign will make the Bistro more inviting, and                                                                                          please ask a staff member.                                   distinguished reputation.
                                                                    artists (see page 8).
       the plants and trees will give the space a more natural                                                                                                                                                     “Not only have we won Best Club Wine List many
                                                                                                                                                      For more information, please visit
       feel,” she says. “I also think the redesign will result in   City Club Operations Manager Amanda Rottmann says                                                                                              times, we have also consistently maintained a
                                                                                                                                                      racv.com.au/clubimprovements
       better use of space. I can’t wait.”                          maintaining day-to-day operations while different                                                                                              top score of three glass, which is recognition
                                                                    spaces undergo renovations brings new challenges, but                             Opening times and bookings at                                of the many hours of hard work that goes into
       Technē Architecture + Interior Design’s illustration,        the positive response from Members when they use the                              racv.com.au/club-bookings                                    creating and maintaining an exceptional wine
       above, assumes a perspective of the Bistro from the          refurbished facilities and venues makes it worthwhile.                                                                                         list,” Christian says.

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NEW VIEW - JANUARY 2022HIGHLIGHTS - THE GALLERY LOUNGE REOPENS WITH A SPECIAL - RACV
YOUR GUIDE TO THE GALLERY LOUNGE ARTWORKS
      COVER
      STORY
                                                                                                                                                                                  Earth by Louise Forthun
                                                                                                                                                                                  The architectural urban landscape has been an enduring
                                                                                                                                                                                  theme for Louise Forthun’s artistic practice. Her stencil
                                                                                                                                                                                  art is intricate and intriguing. Louise is a recipient of a
                                                                                                                                                                                  $10,000 RACV arts grant.

                                                                                                                                                                                  Water entrance - Melbourne by Jan Senbergs
                                                                                                                                                                                  One of Australia’s leading contemporary artists, Water
                                                                                                                                                                                  entrance is typical of Jan Senberg’s work exploring the
                                                                                                                                                                                  impact of cities on the environment. The labyrinthine
                                                                                                                                                                                  view has many reference points to dwell on.

                                                                                                                                                                                  Nature and landscapes by William Breen
                                                                                                                                                                                  William Breen’s meticulous Victorian landscape offers
                                                                                                                                                                                  a chance to slow down and contemplate the natural
                                                                                                                                                                                  world. The expansive vista harkens back to traditional
                                                                                                                                                                                  landscapes but William introduces a meditative quality.

                                                                                                                                                                                  Run Deeper by Kevin Chin
                                                                                                                                                                                  Melbourne artist Kevin Chin’s paintings reframe

       NEW VIEW
                                                                                                                                                                                  landscape conventions to explore deeper cultural
                                                                                                                                                                                  meanings. The viewer is invited to consider the story of
                                                                                                                                                                                  the central figure and their place in the world.

                                                                                                                                                                                  Untitled by Andrew Browne
                                                                                                                                                                                  At first glance these moody and mysterious paintings
                                                                                                                                                                                  look like photographs, but they are oils on linen.
       The refurbished Gallery Lounge opens with the                                                                                ELLEN WIGNELL AND MARDI NOWAK
                                                                                                                                                                                  Previously in the Members Dining Room, they are
                                                                                                                                                                                  literally coming into the light for Members to see anew.
       first of many different exhibitions highlighting                                                                             INSPECT ONE OF THE ARTWORKS, NO.5
                                                                                                                                    BY JON CAMPBELL, WHICH IS PART OF
       artworks drawn from the RACV Art Collection                                                                                  THE NEW GALLERY LOUNGE EXHBITION.             Top Paddock 2011 by Kathryn Ryan
                                                                                                                                                                                  Kathryn Ryan’s painting references the farms and trees
                                                                                                                                                                                  of southwest Victoria, where she grew up. She uses light
                                                                                                                                                                                  and mist to juxtapose loneliness and solitude. Kathryn is
                                                                                                                                                                                  a recipient of a RACV arts grant.

       T
            he new year brings a new perspective for Club             the pandemic, and the Welcome Back Victoria exhibition
            Members visiting the Gallery Lounge at City Club.         includes the artworks of two recipients.                                         PIENRI NPGA C
                                                                                                                                                      MD                          No.5 by Jon Campbell

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             Along with the plush new carpet and stylish              “It’s always exciting to support the Victorian arts scene,”
                                                                                                                                                                                  Everyday life provides the script for this Melbourne
       burgundy chairs, there’s freshly painted walls and track       RACV Head of Visual Arts Mardi Nowak says. “RACV has
                                                                                                                                                                                  artist. His artwork is urban and playful and draws on the
       lighting to accentuate the contemporary artwork drawn          a long history of collaborating with artists, and we are
                                                                                                                                                                                  popularity of AFL to connect with viewers.
       from the RACV Art Collection.                                  looking forward to seeing the work that could be inspired                        PT

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                                                                                                                                                          I ON

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                                                                      by these new opportunities we’ve been able to provide.”
       Behind the scenes, the RACV’s Visual Arts team have
       organised a series of exhibitions that will turn the           Club Members can gain a deeper appreciation of the                                                          Strata by Darren Wardle
       Gallery Lounge into a dynamic cultural space.                  artworks when they visit the Gallery Lounge by scanning            From late January, Level 1 will become   Melbourne artist Darren Wardle’s dazzling psychedelic
                                                                      the QR codes on the labels to read about the artists.                  dining central, with the Gallery     painting employs Rorschach ink-blot mirror imaging to
       “The Gallery Lounge will become an actual gallery with
                                                                      There are also brief notes on page 9 as a starting point.           Lounge, the Bistro temporarily set up   suggest the repetition of suburban housing but also to
       curated exhibitions throughout the year,” RACV Visual
       Art Curator Ellen Wignell says.                                “This year we will have more events and talks relating to            in the Tarrant Room, the Members’      challenge the idea that the suburbs are banal and lifeless.
                                                                      the new gallery space, along with opportunities for Club                  Dining Room and Wine Bar.
       “The first show is Welcome Back Victoria, which features
                                                                      Members to meet our artists," Mardi says.
       artists with a connection to Victoria. It’s a celebration of                                                                                                               Precipice by Kate Shaw
       both the artists and our reopening and regathering.”                                                                               For opening hours and bookings, visit
                                                                      l The RACV Art Collection includes more than 1000                     racv.com.au/racv-club/bookings        Prominent themes in Kate Shaw’s work include alchemy
       RACV also recently introduced a $50,000 grants program         contemporary artworks. Learn more about the                                                                 and environmental change. Precipice is as dazzling as an
       to support five Victorian-based visual artists hit hard by     works and artists at racv.com.au/artcollection                                                              opal but questions the environment cost of mining. Made
                                                                                                                                                                                  of resin, the triptych was recently restored by the artist.

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E AT &
     DRINK

          TIGER
          BALM
          The Lunar New Year dinner is a time
          for family celebration and ensuring
          good fortune for the coming year                                                          FOR LOVERS OF FINE FOOD

                                                                                                    Every year the Valentine’s Day dinner in the

          C
                                                                                                    Members Dining Room is as much about the love of
                  hef Leslie Chan aims to make the Club’s annual Lunar
                                                                                                    fine food as a romantic night out.
                  New Year dinner a night to remember, and this year he
                  has a challenge for Club Members.                                                 Club Chef de Cuisine Jelena Grujovic is planning a
                                                                                                    four-course menu with an emphasis on awakening
          “Come to the dinner and wear or bring something new,” he
                                                                                                    the senses with colour, taste and beautiful aromas.
          says. “As a child growing up in Hong Kong, we were excited
          about Chinese New Year because everyone got new clothes or                                “There will be share plates and individual plates
          new shoes to symbolise a fresh start.                                                     with an emphasis on seasonal produce,” she says.
          “That’s why I encourage people coming to the dinner to wear                               “I like the idea of ‘spicing’ up the love with nutmeg
          something new. Or bring a new bag or have a new haircut; that                             or cinnamon and those kinds of aromas.”
          will bring you on the new journey for the new year.”
                                                                                                    The special dining event is a chance to indulge,
          It is the Year of the Tiger, and Leslie wants the traits associated                       celebrate an anniversary, impress someone new, or
          with this zodiac sign reflected in the menu, which he is co-                              have time out if you’re a parent of young children.
          creating with Club Chef de Cuisine Jelena Grujovic.
                                                                                                    A glass of sparkling on arrival and a red rose on the
          “The tiger is very powerful and energetic, so I want to bring                             table will add a touch of romance to what is a key
          good health for the year to come,” Leslie says. “The tiger gets                           dining event on the Club calendar.
          rid of all worries. I’m looking at using lots of herbs and spices,
          such as Sichuan pepper, to reflect that energy and power.”
                                                                                                    l Valentine’s Day dinner, Mon 14 Feb, 6pm,
          Jelena says she will draw on her memories of visiting Hong                                $120pp. Book online via the What’s On page.
          Kong in 2019 for inspiration. “I remember this creamy pumpkin
          soup with caviar; it was amazing, and I’d like to do my own
          version of that. I also worked with many Chinese chefs when I
          was living in Dubai, and I’m thinking pork belly and bao buns
          will win hearts on the night.”                                                               To secure your spot for any of our Club
                                                                                      PIENRI NPG
                                                                                               AC      dining events, book via the What’s On
          Jelena says the last Lunar New Year she attended in 2020 was               MD
                                                                                                       page at racv.com.au/club-whats-on

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          wonderful. “The dancing was amazing, and it was so much fun
          to get insight into the Chinese traditions that bring people                                 email clubevents@racv.com.au or call
          together,” she says.                                                                         03 9944 8888.
                                                                                 E                     For opening hours and bookings, visit
                                                                                     VE    S
                                                                                        NT             racv.com.au/clubbookings.
          l Chinese New Year Dinner, 1 Feb, 6pm, $125pp, includes
          5-course set menu and lion dancers. Book online via the
          What’s On page.

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NEW VIEW - JANUARY 2022HIGHLIGHTS - THE GALLERY LOUNGE REOPENS WITH A SPECIAL - RACV
WELLNESS

       TEAM
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            R EPSAS
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       PI TEN      C
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       SPIRIT
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                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        EN TRE

                                                                                                                                                                                                                            The Club has two gymnasiums,
                                                                                                                                                                                                                               two pools, group exercise
                                                                                                                                                                                                                            classes, health appraisals and
       You don’t have to go it alone at                                                                                                                                                                                     personalised fitness programs.

       the gym. Find a gym buddy or talk                                                                                                                                                                                    It is recommended that new
       to one of our Fitness Centre staff                                                                                                                                                                                   Members complete a fitness
                                                                                                                                                                                                                          assessment and health appraisal
       about your New Year goals.                                                                                                                                                                                          before using the Fitness Centre.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                             Book online for the City Club
                                                                                                                                                                                                                           Fitness Centre gymnasium and

     W
               e all like to make a fresh start in the New Year.                                                                                                                                                                group fitness classes.
               But old habits die hard, and interest can quickly
               wane if our expectations are unrealistic.                                                                                                                                                                          For Healesville, call
      Personal Trainer Dave Renton says many people start                                                                                                                                                                       (03) 5962 4899 or email
      off with great intentions but lose motivation when they                                                                                                                                                                 fitnesscentrehealesville@
      don’t see instant results.                                                                                                                                                                                                      racv.com.au

      “There are many ways of measuring your success,” Dave
      says. “Sticking to your decision to come to the gym two
      or three times a week may be the first step. Setting a goal
      of being able to do a full press-up by the end of six weeks
      may be another. Make it simple and achievable, and keep
      building on each small success.”
      Dave, who works at the City Club Fitness Centre, says it’s                                                              GET A GYM BUDDY                                                personal trainer or try one of the ever-growing list of
      important not to be too hard on yourself and compare          Make sure you set realistic and achievable targets. A                                                                    group fitness classes. Contact the Fitness Centre at City
                                                                    goal of losing 10kg in a month is both unrealistic and    Training with a friend will give you a support system.         Club or Healesville for more information.
      yourself to others in the gym.
                                                                    unfortunately unachievable. Set monthly, quarterly and    You will inspire each other, and your training sessions
      “Some Members have been training for years. Stick to          yearly goals and tick them off as you go.                 will feel more positive. A bit of friendly competition
      your program and just think of it as a lifestyle change.                                                                doesn’t hurt either.                                           WEIGHT LOSS TIPS
      Pace yourself, stay consistent and that will serve you well
                                                                                                                              When you hit a wall, a partner can provide the                 The reality is that exercise alone isn’t a magic solution
      for years to come.”                                           HOW TO FORM NEW HABITS
                                                                                                                              motivation you need to keep going. Even the most ardent        for losing weight. People tend to go to the gym and then
      Dave outlines ways to enhance your success below.             Make your training part of your lifestyle. Keep a diary   of fitness enthusiasts have days when they don’t want to       justify either eating junk food, or they eat more because
                                                                    and schedule your training days. Start with simple        go to the gym.                                                 they have an increased appetite.
                                                                    workouts that get the body moving again and then add
      HAVE ACHIEVABLE GOALS                                         mobility work. Have a long-term goal and create smaller                                                                  Weight loss is an equation of energy in and energy out.
                                                                    goals that help you stay on track. Training can become    ASK FOR ASSISTANCE                                             But it’s also about nutrition and ensuring you get quality
      Make sure you are physically and mentally ready to                                                                                                                                     carbs for quick energy, lean protein for your muscles
      commence your training program, and have confidence           addictive, especially when the endorphins kick in.
                                                                                                                              Fitness Centre staff possess a terrific set of skills across   and blood cells, fats that are healthy for your heart and
      in your program. Choose exercises you enjoy, and              When you lack motivation, the Fitness Centre staff        multiple areas, be it weight loss, strength training, sport    plenty of fluids.
      ask your family and friends for support. Their                can step in with exercise programming and personal-       specific training and mobility training. If you need any
      encouragement will help you progress.                         training solutions.                                       form of help, they are there to assist. You can have a         It’s worth consulting a dietitian if you need guidance.
                                                                                                     WORDS: BLANCHE CLARK
                                                                                                     PHOTO: MATT HARVEY
12 HIGHLIGHTS JANUARY 2022                                                                                                                                                                                                                HIGHLIGHTS JANUARY 2022 13
NEW VIEW - JANUARY 2022HIGHLIGHTS - THE GALLERY LOUNGE REOPENS WITH A SPECIAL - RACV
MEET &
     CONNECT

                The four squash courts at the City Club
                are a hidden gem in Melbourne’s CBD
                                                                                                                                         POOL YOUR RESOURCES

        GIVE IT A SHOT
                                                                                                                                         City Club’s Billiards Room takes your experience of
                                                                                                                                         playing pool at the pub to the next level. You get to
                                                                                                                                         play on full-size tables, meet new people and enter
                                                                                                                                         social competitions.

                                                                                                                                         “We get people coming to the Billiards Room for the
        It’s a fallacy that squash is only for the fit and young. Club Members                                                           first time and they go, ‘Wow!’ It’s not your normal
        who play squash at the City Club range in age from young adults to                                                               pub billiards room. It’s eight full-sized tables,” says
        octagenarians, and RACV Squash Section President Geoff Chambers                                                                  RACV Resident Professional Billiards and Snooker
        says the social side of the game is as important as the competition.                                                             Coach and Triple World Champion Robby Foldvari.
        “Pennant levels include people who are very fit, as well as those aged
        in their 70s and 80s who enjoy the camaraderie. You can always find                                                              He says Club snooker and billiards tournaments date
        a game that is competitive for your level, so it’s a fantastic sport from                                                        back to the 1920s, and that history is reflected in
        that point of view.”                                                                                                             the honour boards. But not everyone is that serious
                                                                                                                                         about the sport, and Robby introduced Social 8-ball a
        An accomplished tennis player in his youth, Geoff switched to squash                                                             few years ago to provide a more relaxed competition.
        so he could play year-round. “Someone invited me to play squash
        and I thought, ‘How good is this?’ It’s dry, it’s warm, you cannot get                                                           “It’s a unique RACV Club format, with handicapped
        rained on, the whole game takes less than an hour, and you’ve got                                                                matches and prizes to be won,” he says. “Anyone can
        your fitness,” he says. “I was pretty good at hitting the ball, so I was                                                         play, as long they can hold a cue. The idea is for Club
        in straight away. I loved it.”                                                                                                   Members to bring their guests and socialise.”
        The number of squash courts in Melbourne has shrunk over the
        decades, but the competition remains strong among private clubs.                                                                 Robby offers coaching for individuals or groups.
        RACV Club has more than 100 active players.                                                                                      “A few lessons will get you started, but you do have
                                                                                                                                         to practice. Once you can pot a few balls you’ll start
        “Top players in the state play in the Club Circuit competition,” Geoff                                                           to get a lot more enjoyment out of it.”
        says. “RACV has always been a principal member of that competition
        and currently has about 10 to 12 teams playing for pennants during                                                               Billiard tables can be booked for private and
        the year. That number will probably increase post-lockdown.”                                                                     corporate functions. It’s also a great place for
        This month squash players of all levels are taking part in the Alan                                                              corporate team building, with a specially designed
        Clancy Cup. Over five weeks on Wednesday nights (except Australia                                                                social competition and a chance to see Robby’s
                                                                                                         PHOTO: RACV CLUB SQUASH
        Day) around eight teams are competing in the in-house competition.                               CHAMPION CORBEN WHITE, LEFT,
                                                                                                                                         trick shots, pick up new skills and order food and
        The Cup has been running for 30-plus years in honour of the late                                 WITH SQUASH SECTION PRESIDENT   beverages. “It’s like a golf day without any weather
        Alan Clancy, a much-loved Club Member and keen squash player.                                    GEOFF CHAMBERS                  issues,” Robby says.

        It is one of several opportunities for newcomers to have a hit and
                                                                                                                                         ROBBY’S TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
        meet other Club Members, such as Club Champion and coach Corben
        White. Geoff says Thursday nights are destined to become social                                                                  - Keep your head still
        squash nights from February.
                                                                                         P   ORTIN                                       - Learn how to grip the cue and form a bridge
                                                                                                 G
                                                                                    S

        “Any Club Member who is interested can come along and have a
                                                                                                                                         - Practice, practice, practice
        hit,” Geoff says. “We’ll put them together with someone of a similar
                                                                                    CO

        standard, and there will be a social drink afterwards.”                                                                          - Most of all, enjoy it.
                                                                                                     S

                                                                                     N
                                                                                                     N

                                                                                         NE      O
        l Fordetails about competitions, social squash and                                  C TI                                         l Keep an eye on the What’s On page for an
        private lessons, email fitnesscentre@racv.com.au                                                                                 upcoming group coaching course with Robby
                                                                                                                                         Foldvari, 6.30-7.45pm, Mondays for four weeks.

14 HIGHLIGHTS JANUARY 2022                                                                                                                                                 HIGHLIGHTS JANUARY 2022 15
NEW VIEW - JANUARY 2022HIGHLIGHTS - THE GALLERY LOUNGE REOPENS WITH A SPECIAL - RACV
ESCAPE

       FU N AN D GAI N S
       Have a device-free holiday at Healesville with these
       entertaining and educational activities for all the family

       LOOK OUT FOR THE LEADBEATER’S POSSUM                              Book a close-up encounter with a koala, kangaroo or
                                                                         echidna for an extra-special family outing.
       Victoria’s faunal emblem, the critically endangered
       Leadbeater’s possum, is the anthesis of its brash city            l zoo.org.au/healesville

       cousins who raid bins and gardens. This marsupial likes                                                                                                 Explore the Yarra Valley and stay a
                                                                                                                                                  MMODA
       to hide in old hollow logs among the ash forests and sub-                                                                              O                little longer. See our stay packages and
                                                                         STITCH TOGETHER LOCAL HISTORY

                                                                                                                                                      TI
                                                                                                                                         C
       alpine woodlands of Victoria’s central highlands, with a

                                                                                                                                                          ON
                                                                                                                                         AC
                                                                                                                                                               book a family escape, with adjoining
       small lowland population to the east of Melbourne.                         Once a humble domestic skill, quilting has become                            rooms, at Healesville Country Club &
                                                                   HEALESVILLE        a highly regarded textile art, with fabrics
                                                                                                                                          A

                                                                                                                                         P
       You’re unlikely to spot one in the wild, but a                                                                                                          Resort. Dining options include Riddell’s

                                                                                                                                                      S
                                                                   MUSIC                  transformed into exquisite designs. The             CK
                                                                                                                                                 A G

                                                                                                                                                     E
       day trip to Mount Donna Buang from the                                                                                                                  Green (below) and Banyalla. Visit
                                                                   FESTIVAL                  Art Quilt Australia exhibition features
       Club will give kids an appreciation of
                                                                                              25 works, and children can have fun                              racv.com. au/healesville-packages
       this rare possum’s habitat.
                                                                                                choosing their favourite.

                                                                                                  Held at the Yarra Ranges Regional
       GET INTO FESTIVAL GROOVE                                                                    Museum until February 27, it’s
                                                                                                   a chance to see the museum’s
       Live music is back for summer
                                                                                                   artefacts and photographs that
       and award-winning musicians
                                                                                                   relate to Dame Nellie Melba,
       will strut their stuff again at the
                                                                                                   Coranderrk Aboriginal Station
       Healesville Music Festival (right).
                                                                                                  and early vignerons. Entry is free
       Held at the Healesville Amateur                                                           and bookings aren’t required.
       Racing Club, across the road from
                                                                                               l yarraranges.vic.gov.au
       the Club, the festival offers an eclectic
       mix of rock, blues, soul, roots and folk.
       Children aged 13 and under get in for free.
                                                                                      UNLEASH A BUDDING ARTIST
       You can pop across for a few hours of entertainment
                                                                           Children can let their imaginations go wild at the
       or consider combining a three-day festival pass with a
                                                                         TarraWarra Museum of Art using repurposed materials to
       stay at the Club. RACV Club is a silver sponsor of the
                                                                         contribute to a giant archipelago. There are four sessions of
       festival, which runs February 18-20.
                                                                         the Imagine an Island Workshop on January 15 and 16.
       l healesvillemusicfestival.com.au
                                                                         If it’s booked out, keep tabs on the museum’s website for
                                                                         future activities that the family can combine with a stay
                                                                         at the Club. The Sydney Nolan Myth Rider exhibition is on
       SOAK UP THE SUN AT THE SANCTUARY
                                                                         until March 6, and the Wonder Wednesdays program for
       Have fun in the sun at Healesville Sanctuary on Saturday          adults includes free tours, workshops and talks until 23
       afternoons in February. The Koala Picnic Gardens is the           February. Could be the perfect excuse for a mini break.
       place to be with live entertainment after the family has
                                                                         l twma.com.au
       checked out all the activity in the animal enclosures.

16 HIGHLIGHTS JANUARY 2022                                                                                                                                                          HIGHLIGHTS JANUARY 2022 17
NEW VIEW - JANUARY 2022HIGHLIGHTS - THE GALLERY LOUNGE REOPENS WITH A SPECIAL - RACV
W H AT ’ S O N T H I S M O N T H
         JA N UA RY
                                                                                                                                  O P E N H O U S E T O WAT C H G R A N D S L A M
         5    ALAN
              CLANCY CUP
                              Squash
                              Courts
                                            CITY
                                                                                                                                  Kick back with a craft beer, spritz or a glass of
                              6.30pm                                                                                              chardonnay in one of the Club’s sports bars and watch
                                                                                                        Fran Furci’s              the Australian Open 2022 on the big screen.
              EVENING         Clubroom      CITY                                                        classes
              MAHJOING        7.15pm                                                                                              Ash Barty and Novak Djokovic headline the player
                                                                                                        are a great
                                                                                                                                  fields set to compete at Melbourne Park for the first
                                                                                                        way to start
                                                                                                       the day on                 Grand Slam event of the season.
         11   MORNING
              YOGA
                              8am           ONLINE
                                            VIA ZOOM                                                  Thursday                    World No.1 Barty, who will attempt to become the first
              WITH KATHY                                                                             mornings.                    local player to win an Australian Open singles title
                                                                                                                                  in 44 years, leads a women’s field featuring all of the
        12    ALAN
              CLANCY CUP
                              Squash
                              Courts
                                            CITY
                                                                                                                                  world’s top 40. Defending champion Djokovic will play
                              6.30pm                                                                                              for an incredible 10th Australian Open trophy — and a
                                                                                                                                  men’s record 21st major singles title.
        13    MORNING
              MOVEMENT
                              8am           ONLINE
                                            VIA ZOOM                                                                              17-30 Jan, noon-late, Carbine Bar, City Club,
              WITH FRAN                                       24   BRIDGE
                                                                   CHALLENGE
                                                                                   Level 17
                                                                                   9.15am
                                                                                                  CITY
                                                                                                                                  with happy hour specials, or Riddell’s Green,
                                                                                                                                  Healesville Country Club & Resort, where Club
              SOLO            Clubroom      CITY                                                                                  Members can dine and get a 15% discount off the
                              9am                                                                                                 final bill when they charge it back to their Club
                                                                                                                                  Membership card.
                                                              25   MORNING
                                                                   YOGA WITH
                                                                                   8am            ONLINE
                                                                                                  VIA ZOOM
              CIRCUS          2pm-2.50pm    CITY
              WORKSHOPS       3pm-3.50pm    $25pp                  KATHY
              FOR CHILDREN

        16    KENNETH         St Kilda      OFFSITE
              PARK            10am          $25pp,            27   MORNING
                                                                   MOVEMENT
                                                                                   8am            ONLINE
                                                                                                  VIA ZOOM
              WALKING                       includes tour +
                                                                                                                                                                                                                       ER
                                                                                                                                                                                                                   MCPL U B P A
              TOUR                          tea/coffee             WITH
              St Kilda No.1                                        FRAN                                                                                                                                        A

                                                                                                                                                                                                                             CK
                                                                                                                                                                                                         P

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  S
        18    MORNING
              YOGA WITH
                              8am           ONLINE
                                            VIA ZOOM          28   GOVERNMENT      10am-11.15am   OFFSITE
                                                                   HOUSE TOUR                     Free for Club
              KATHY                                                                                                                                                                                        E
                                                                                                  Members                                                                                                      VE    S
                                                                                                                                                                                                                  NT
        19    ALAN
              CLANCY CUP
                              Squash
                              Courts
                                            CITY

                              6.30pm
                                                              29   INXSIVE: THE
                                                                   INXS TRIBUTE
                                                                                   8pm-
                                                                                   10.30pm
                                                                                                  HEALESVILLE
                                                                                                  $135pp dinner
                                                                                                                                                                                                 We have exciting events planned
                                                                                                                                                                                                 for 2022, including our Lunar New
        20    MORNING
              MOVEMENT
                              8am           ONLINE
                                            VIA ZOOM
                                                                   DINNER                         + show
                                                                                                                                                                                                Year dinner, Valentine’s Day dinner,
              WITH FRAN                                                                                                                                                                         Box Office Packages and exclusive
                                                                                                                                                                                                      wine and whisky events.
              MAHJONG         Clubroom      CITY              31   INTERNATIONAL
                                                                   CROISSANT
                                                                                   8am-3pm        LE PETIT
                                                                                                  GATEAU
                              10am                                 DAY                                                                                                                          Bookmark our What’s On page for
                                                                                                                                                                                                    the latest information at
              YOUNG           Bistro        CITY                   SUPERVISED      Clubroom       CITY
                                                                                                                       YA R R A VA L L E Y C U P – A DAY AT T H E R AC E S                        racv.com.au/club-whats-on
              PROFESSIONALS   12.30pm                              DUPLICATE       10am
              EXPRESS                                                                                                  Get in quick for great day out at the Yarra Valley Cup. Enjoy a buffet
                                                                   BRIDGE                                                                                                                         Plan and book ahead for your
              LUNCH                                                                                                    lunch with beverages in a private marquee exclusive to Club Members.
                                                                                                                                                                                                      next visit to the Club at
                                                                                                                       No need to worry about parking. There’s a bus to transfer you to and
                                                                                                                                                                                                    racv.com.au/clubbookings
                                                                                                                       from the track on the day from Healesville Country Club & Resort.
                       CLUB EVENTS         Information in Highlights and the events listed in this calendar
                                                                                                                       Sun 20 Mar, 11.30am-5.30pm, $180pp includes buffet lunch,
                                           were correct at the time of publication. However, changes in
                                                                                                                       beverage package and return transfers.
                                           circumstances may impact on the accuracy of this information.

18 HIGHLIGHTS JANUARY 2022
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  HIGHLIGHTS JANUARY 2022 19
RACV Club Members Save More
 As a Club Member you enjoy 15% off food and beverages at
  Banyalla, the new dining experience at Healesville Country
Club & Resort, when you charge directly to your Club account.
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