SPRING 2021 - Celebrating 30 years - AWS

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SPRING 2021 - Celebrating 30 years - AWS
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                       SPRING 2021

Celebrating 30 years
SPRING 2021 - Celebrating 30 years - AWS
SPRING 2021 - Celebrating 30 years - AWS
Welcome to the spring edition of Goldfields Getaway
THE landscape is peppered with the brilliant                      Restaurants and cafes in the district have
yellows of wattle and canola and, yet again, we                become experts at switching from dine-in to
are watching the daily numbers to decide our                   take away and back again, and we hope you
travel plans.                                                  continue to support them on your travels.
   Thank you again to our readers and                             With travel conditions changing so quickly,
advertisers for your support throughout this                   we will do our best to keep you in touch with
topsy-turvy year. While some events and                        what’s happening in the local area through our
celebrations may be temporarily on hold until                  Facebook and online web page
we have more certainty, we will continue to                    (www.maryboroughadvertiser.com.au/goldfield
highlight the activities and places you can                    s-getaway).
attend to make planning your trip to the                          We love your feedback, so please keep in
goldfields a bit easier.                                       touch, let us know if you’ve discovered some
   Whether you arrive by train, car or towing a                great places or events we have missed and send
van, in this edition we examine                                in your snaps to share your adventures in the
accommodation options for travellers and                       Central Goldfields.
speak with operators and tourists about the                       Thank you to everyone who entered our
changing face of tourism in the area.                          winter competition and congratulations to
   With the weather warming up, spring is the                  Janice Beste, who found the gold nugget on
ideal time to try your hand at prospecting. For                Page 39. Janice won a $50 voucher for J.M.
those new to the hobby, head to Coiltek, on the                Leech Jewellers in Maryborough.
road to Dunolly, for friendly tips and advice.                 Congratulations also to Rowena Butler who
   Or if golf is more your style, general                      won a prize pack from Maryborough’s
manager of the Maryborough Golf Club,                          NewsXpress.
John Sedunary, has described the greens at this                   Turn to Page 39 to enter the spring Spot the
time of year as “superb”.                                      Nugget competition.

ON THE COVER: Roses overlooking the valley by Mary Gibson
MARY Gibson (pictured) is a former art teacher and fashion designer who
need look no further than her own garden for inspiration.
  “This photo was taken from our orchard looking across our garden to the
Sutton Valley,” Mary said.
  Mary and her husband Bede run Mica Grange, a stunning property at
the foothills of Mt Alexander, where they combine art with the beauty of
nature.
  Turn to Page 5 for details of Mica Grange’s Spring Open Garden
Sculpture Exhibition.

                                                   Now taking bookings for summer 21-22
                                                  Phone 5461-3866 for bookings and more information.
  PUBLISHED BY                                             EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING
  Maryborough Regional Newspapers Pty Ltd                  Natalie Woods and Deb Bennett
  Printed by Centre State Printing, Maryborough VIC        E getawaygoldfields@gmail.com
 See the magazine online at www.maryboroughadvertiser.com.au/goldfields-getaway
 Information contained in this guide is correct at the time of printing.
 We accept no responsibility for errors, omissions or changes which occur after publication.
 All advertising/editorial is copyright and may not be reproduced without prior permission.

                                                                                                             3
SPRING 2021 - Celebrating 30 years - AWS
Major facelift for gallery
THE Central Goldfields Art Gallery will be                numbers coming to enjoy another wonderful
closed from September this year until June                public art gallery in Central Victoria.”
2022 as it undergoes a major renovation.                     The extensive renovation includes a
  The renovation incorporates the architecture            welcoming front entrance using the existing
of the former Maryborough Fire Station to                 double doors of the original fire station, a new
create a contemporary gallery while                       reception area and an extended and
acknowledging the treasured history of the                modernised main exhibition gallery which will
building. The range of works exhibited will               benefit from improved environmental controls.
increase to include attracting touring                       Externally the gallery will feature a new
exhibitions of significant cultural merit and             loading dock for deliveries, and an Indigenous
worth to the community.                                   interpretative garden. Skylights will introduce
  Helen Kaptein is the gallery’s curator and              light and views to the historic fire tower, with
education officer. She is thrilled that the gallery       the historic rafters also set to be exposed.
has been recognised as an important cultural                 As the renovations take place, Helen
asset, both for the local community and those             encourages visitors to the area to visit one of
who travel to the area.                                   the many community and private art galleries
  “It’s very exciting to be involved in this              dotted throughout the Central Goldfields.
redevelopment, which will have significant                   “We will also be running a ‘pop-up’
benefits to the community,” Helen said.                   exhibition at the Maryborough Railway Station
  “The redevelopment will result in a                     from November 11 to December 5, so drop in
contemporary, state-of-the-art public art gallery         and enjoy the diversity and talent within the
for local people and attract additional visitor           community that will be on show,” Helen said.

                                     Connect with us:
                                     Phone: 03 5461 6600
                                     Email: cgsc.art@cgoldshire.vic.gov.au
                                     Web: www.linktr.ee/CGArtGallery

                                     CENTRAL GOLDFIELDS ART GALLERY IS POISED TO
                                     UNDERTAKE A MAJOR REDEVELOPMENT
                                     The Gallery will be closed from 6 September 2021 and will
                                     re-open in July 2022.
                                     Stay in touch about pop-up services during this time via:
                                     www.linktr.ee/CGArtGallery

                                     COMMUNITY ARTS EXHIBITION
                                     11 November to 5 December 2021
                                     To be held at the Visitor Information Centre
                                     at Maryborough Railway Station
                                     A diversity of paintings, textiles, digital work
                                     and sculptures created by residents of Central
                                     Goldfields Shire and Avoca.
                                     Left: Jason Luca, Tessellations I, Licorice allsorts
                                     and Tessellations II, 2019, ceramic (Nerekomi).

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SPRING 2021 - Celebrating 30 years - AWS
Spectacular garden and art
TIRED of feeling cooped up? Spread your
wings this spring at the Mica Grange Open
Garden Sculpture Exhibition.
   The spacious gardens are full of creative
ideas to enjoy or enhance the beauty of
your own garden. Sculptures from Victoria,
NSW and Adelaide plus a wide array of
garden art adorn the gardens. There are
also plants and preserves for sale.
   Morning tea, light lunches and afternoon
tea are served on the spacious decking or
around the garden between 10 am and
4 pm. No matter where you choose to
partake of your refreshments you will enjoy
the vast panoramic views across the Sutton
Grange valley.
   Whether your interest is in traditional           What: Mica Grange Open Garden Sculpture Exhibition
gardens, rose walks, proteas, Australian             When: Each weekend 10 am to 4 0pm from
natives, rockeries, vegetable gardens, fairy                Saturday, October 23 to Sunday, November 28,
                                                            plus the Monday and Tuesday of Melbourne Cup
gardens, or simply meandering through                       weekend. Group Bookings week days only.
beautiful scenery and relaxing with good
                                                     Where: 373 Faraday Sutton Grange Rd. Sutton Grange
food, you will find something to spark your
                                                     Entry: $7, children free
imagination at Mica Grange.

                                OPEN                                                         ENTRY
                                                                                              $7
                               GARDEN                                                       Children

 & SCULPTURE EXHIBITION                                                                  • Morning Tea
                                                                                         • Light Lunch
             OPEN EACH WEEKEND                                                           • Afternoon Tea
  Saturday, October 23 to Sunday, November 28                                            • Garden Art
          (plus Monday & Tuesday of Melbourne Cup)                                       • Plant Preserves
     10am to 4pm • Group bookings available weekdays                                       available
                             373 Faraday Sutton Grange Rd, Sutton Grange
      www.micagrange.com.au | Ph 0499 897 242 or 0409 322 413 | micagrangegarden@gmail.com

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SPRING 2021 - Celebrating 30 years - AWS
Message in a bottle
WHETHER they have been collecting dust in
a box in Grandma’s shed or used for years as a
decorative vase, bottles in their many shapes
and sizes offer a window into times past.
   Steve Greenwood is the president of the Lee
Medlyn Home of Bottles in Clunes. He said up
until 1872, bottles weren’t made in Australia,
so the bulk would have been brought over from
England or Europe. He encourages people to
bring in any bottles they may have.
   “People can bring bottles in for sale, to be      exhibition from the former knitting factory that
valued or just out of interest,” Steve said.         operated from the building, there’s a mining
   “Age, rarity and condition will determine         tunnel and a recreation of the Eberhard’s soft
what a bottle is worth, as well as markings that     drink factory that used to run in Fraser Street,
tell us who the company was that actually            Clunes.
made it.                                                The museum also runs exhibitions
   “When people visit the museum, we fill them       throughout the year highlighting various
in with all the information they need, starting      artifacts from different times in history. The
with the age of the piece, how it was made and       current exhibition, 150 Years of Chinese in
so on.”                                              Victoria, includes containers, bottles and even
   Steve also wants people to know the museum        a few dresses which were actually found in the
displays more than just bottles. As well as an       local area.

                                                          LEE MEDLYN
                                                        HOME OF BOTTLES
                                                         A must see during your stop at Clunes.
                                                        The largest collection of its kind on public
                                                         display. Showcasing pieces of historical
                                                            significance such as old soft drink
                                                       manufacturing equipment, linking (knitting)
                                                           machines, mine tunnel equipment
                                Visit our bridal                     and much more.
                               studio and make
                            something truly unique       NEW EXHIBITIONS SEASONALLY
                             for your special day.      CURRENT 150 Years of Chinese in Victoria
     Experts in design, remake and remodelling          LATE SEPTEMBER Pharmaceutical items

      139 High St, Maryborough 5461 1801                     70 Bailey Street, Clunes
         Castlemaine – Bendigo – Echuca                 Thurs-Sun 11am-4pm or by appointment
                 jmleech.com.au                           Steve 5461-4720 / Yvonne 5343-5281

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SPRING 2021 - Celebrating 30 years - AWS
Picnic in spring at Buda
SPRING is the ideal time to treat yourself to a
garden picnic while enjoying the historic
beauty of Buda in Castlemaine. The cheerful
bulbs and blossoms evoke a feeling of hope and
renewal in the air.
   This significant and charming property,
which was once the home of the Leviny family,
is one of Australia’s unique treasures and is a
must for lovers of the arts and crafts
movement, heritage gardens and gold rush
architecture.
   With ample room for the kids or grandkids
to stretch their legs, a gentle stroll around the
grounds could be capped off with a picnic
lunch on the lawn overlooking the township or
listening to the aviary birds while seated at
comfortable tables in the courtyard.
   You are welcome to bring your own rug and
picnic hamper, but for those travelling, or an            Pick up a Picnic at Buda Castlemaine
extra special treat, why not book an exclusive
Buda gourmet hamper featuring fresh                    All gourmet hampers are self-contained, with
seasonal, local produce?                            picnic rug and thermos. With vegetarian
                                                    options for each basket, dietary requirements
                                                    can be catered for upon request and they also
                                                    feature special Buda recipes direct from the
                                                    diaries of the Leviny women.
                                                       Baskets must be ordered at least 24 hours in
                                                    advance and will be waiting for you upon
                                                    arrival at reception. Baskets are simply
                                                    delivered back to reception after your picnic.
                                                    See the Buda Castlemaine website for ordering
                                                    details.
                                                       The Buda Plant Nursery sells locally
                                                    propagated plants – such as the rare Tulipa
                                                    saxatilis – from Buda’s own garden as well as a
                                                    fabulous range of local Indigenous tube stock
                                                    from the surrounding district. Buda’s gift shop
                                                    also provides a range of Buda merchandise and
                     ue
              A uniq n
                      o                             handcrafted items for sale.
              collecti the
                    ng
             featuri rafts                             Bus and tour groups can be catered for with
                    C
              Arts & ent                            morning or afternoon tea or lunch in our
               movem
                                                    function room overlooking the garden but
                                                    advanced bookings are essential.
 budacastlemaine.org                                   Visitors are welcome at Buda all year round
 HISTORIC      HERITAGE      GROUP     BOOK A
   VILLA        GARDEN       TOURS     PICNIC
                                                    for picnics and self-guided tours; visit
                                                    budacastlemaine.org for more information and
        42 Hunter St Castlemaine                    to check any Covid restrictions effecting
              03 5472 1032                          opening hours.
                                                                                                  7
SPRING 2021 - Celebrating 30 years - AWS
From award-winning Australian playwright Peta Murray,
      Wallflowering features world-class ballroom dancers
      performing on stage alongside actors in a delightfully
    amusing and poignant play about the nature of marriage,
        the pursuit of happiness, and the perfect foxtrot.

      Tuesday September 14 and
     Wednesday September 15, 2021
               The Engine Room, Bendigo
               Book now at gotix.com.au

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SPRING 2021 - Celebrating 30 years - AWS
Live theatre is back at BV&E
AFTER what has been a tumultuous 18                 Ughetti (violin), Noella Yan (cello) – is
months for live theatre, Bendigo Venues and         renowned for its ‘Piano Trio Archaeology’ –
Events is thrilled to welcome audiences back        presenting these ‘findings’ alongside
for some of the best entertainment Australia        masterpieces of the piano trio genre and
has to offer. From comedy to chamber music,         freshly-minted contemporary compositions.
audiences can enjoy the latest in live                 For something completely different, on
entertainment in beautiful surrounds for a          October 7 and 8, the Engine Room presents
fraction of the price they would pay in city        Vanessa ‘Larry’ Mitchell performing her one-
venues.                                             woman show Teardrops on My Dildo. Described
   On September 7, The Ulumbarra Theatre            as a “breathtakingly brilliant queen of sass”,
will host revered Australian singer-songwriter      the comedian explores dating, parenting and all
Paul Kelly and his band, including Vika and         things female.
Linda Bull. The On The Road Again tour is a            On November 28 at the Ulumbarra Theatre,
welcome return to live performing for the           legends of musical theatre and opera, Marina
musicians and crew.                                 Prior and David Hobson perform The 2 Of
   “The band and crew and I have really missed      Us. Featuring brand new songs, back-stage and
each other over the last 18 months as shows         life stories, and classics from their vast careers
were first postponed then cancelled,” Kelly said.   spanning 35 years. Accompanied by renowned
   “We’re really looking forward to stretching      pianist David Cameron, in a two-hour intimate
out and playing music night after night. We         performance, Marina and David will perform
want to see the whites of your eyes, you lovers     hits from productions such as The Phantom of
of sound, joy and fury; we want to charge the       The Opera, Cats, Evita, Les Miserables, and West
air around us and change each other and send        Side Story, to name a few.
you home singing into the night!”                      For a full list of shows and events go to:
   On September 26 at the Bendigo Bank              www.bendigoregion.com.au/arts-culture-
Theatre, lovers of classical music can enjoy the    theatres/whats-on.
talent Trio Anima Mundi, who will perform              All venues adhere to Covid-safe regulations.
two piano trios by Beethoven and Reissiger.            If a show is cancelled/rescheduled due to lock-down,
    International award-winning Trio Anima          BV&E offers patrons the option of a full-refund or
Mundi – Kenji Fujimura (piano), Rochelle            credit for future shows.
                                                                                                         9
SPRING 2021 - Celebrating 30 years - AWS
Central Goldfields Visitor Information Centre
             Open 7 Days, 9am – 5pm (except Good Friday and Christmas Day)

     Maryborough Railway Station, Railway Street, Maryborough 3465
     Freecall: 1800 356 511  visitorinfo@cgoldshire.vic.gov.au
     www.visitmaryborough.com.au

10
Ghostly tales at Possum Gully
POSSUM Gully Fine Arts will be open
on weekends and public holidays
throughout spring. Visitors can enjoy
browsing the work of a variety of artists
and mediums and wander through the
eclectic garden, with its sculptures and
surprises.
   On October 30 (Melbourne Cup
weekend), Possum Gully’s Spring
Exhibition will open. Featured among
the artists will be the paintings of Mark
Savage.
   Mark moved to the area five years ago
and said he became intrigued by the
landscape, particularly the crumbling
buildings scattered throughout the
district.
   “I am intrigued by the great number of
19th century blue stone and brick ruins
which dot the area and have developed
series called Goldfields Ghosts,” Mark said.
   In his paintings, Mark gives each ruin
a substance and a sense of place. The
relic becomes the essence of the painting
by seeming to defy time, the elements
and intrusion.
   Coincidently, the authors of the
recently released book, The Ghosts Have                           Grand Old House Talbot
Never Left, will be guest speakers at the
spring launch on October 30.                              Writing in The Age, senior contributor Jane
   Written by John and Marie Watt, the book             Sullivan described the book as “…an
uses words and images to explore the history            extraordinary tribute to Victoria’s goldfields
and legacy of the goldrush era, uncovering              history. A haunting, eerie evocation of places
forgotten tales that have shaped modern times.          that are thronged with ghosts”.

    POSSUM GULLY FINE ARTS
        PAINTING• SCULPTURE • PRINTMAKING • CERAMICS

         Gallery open weekends and public holidays
        exhibiting a wide range of works in all mediums
      SPRING EXHIBITION BEGINS OCTOBER 30
        Meet the authors of the popular recently released book
         ‘The Ghosts Have Never Left’, with original paintings
        complementing the theme by local artist Mark Savage.
 Open weekends & public holidays 11 am to 5 pm • Appointments ph: 5461-1775 • www.possumgullyfinearts.com.au
                       428 Possum Gully Road, Adelaide Lead via Maryborough.
  Travel 4km from Maryborough towards Avoca on Pyrenees Hwy, turn left at sign and follow bitumen for 4.5km.

                                                                                                               11
MARYBOROUGH
                               HARNESS RACING CLUB

* WE HAVE REFURBISHED OUR DINING ROOM *
               A perfect venue for functions or conferences
  We are hosting 11 race meetings during Spring, including the
   Avoca Maryborough St Arnaud Community Bank Gold Cup
                  and the Redwood Carnival...
        Monday, September 13                        2021 Redwood Carnival (see below)
        Monday, September 20                               Sunday, November 7
       Wednesday, September 29                            Thursday, November 11
        Wednesday, October 6                              Thursday, November 18
     Sunday, October 17 (CUP DAY)                          Friday, November 26

                REDWOOD CARNIVAL
   Sunday October 24 • Friday October 29 to Sunday October 31
Victoria Trotters Derby Heats                       Redwood Classic
Sunday, October 24                                 Sunday, October 31
                                                   Admission $15, pensioners $5.
Gold Bracelet Day                                  A 10-race card starts at 12 noon.
Friday, October 29                                 Attractions include the Pony Trots heats/finals and
                                                   the Victoria Trotters Derby final.
From 12 noon, offering 10 trotting races.
Patrons have the chance to win a $1000 gold        • Prizes & Giveaways
bracelet via the on-course racebook competition.   • Children’s entertainment
$500 last five winners jackpot                     • All facilities undercover
Punter’s second chance draw.                       • Fine home styled cooking
                                                   • Bookmakers ring
Redwood Trials                                     • TAB
Saturday, October 30                               • Sky Channel
Trials commence at 9 am.                           • Well stocked bar

             MARYBOROUGH TROTTING & FUNCTION CENTRE
                            337 BUCKNALL STREET, CARISBROOK
12Les Chapman (secretary/manager) 5464-2451 or 0418 552 294 • maryboroughharness.com.au
Maryborough Harness Racing Club, a perfect function venue

It’s carnival time in Carisbrook
                                                    “
FOR something a little different this spring,
plan a trip to the Maryborough Harness                Within the harness racing industry,
Racing Club (MHRC) for a day of fun,
excitement and the chance to back a winner.            Maryborough – and the Redwood
   Les Chapman has been involved with                 Carnival in particular – is known for

                                                                                           ”
harness racing for more than 60 years. He has                setting the standard.
trained, driven and part-owned horses, and is
currently the secretary of the MHRC. He said        season, all involved with the sport are looking
the venue has undergone a few changes since it      forward to restrictions easing. Even if interstate
was first built in 1891 as a thoroughbred racing    border restrictions apply, he said people can
track.                                              expect a high standard of competition in the
   In 1945 a trust was appointed and the track      upcoming Redwood Carnival.
became a premium regional trotting track,              “Victoria is known as the leading state for
hosting champion horses from throughout             trotters in Australia,” Les said.
Australia and overseas.                                “And within the harness racing industry,
   After a challenging 18 months, the club is       Maryborough – and the Redwood Carnival in
hopeful they will be able to welcome spectators     particular – is known for setting the standard.”
to the races once again. Les is confident they         The high standard of competition is
can run events safely, having successfully          reflected in the racing complex at Carisbrook,
navigated the changing restrictions during the      which is recognised for its immaculate
pandemic.                                           surrounds, critically-acclaimed track and
   “The racing industry has done an incredible      excellent public facilities. Its trademark is
job to keep working throughout Covid,” Les          traditional home-style catering.
said.                                                  “Our dining area has been refurbished and is
   “We’ve been very strict with enforcing Covid     a great venue for functions such as weddings
regulations. Everyone who comes to the course       and special birthday celebrations,” Les said.
is temperature tested, we ensure they practice         “On race days pre-Covid we could cater for
good sanitising measures and mask wearing,          up to 200 patrons. We are known in the
and we’ve reduced attendance to essential           industry for our homestyle cooking – nothing
workers only.”                                      too elaborate, just good tucker and a well-
   As we head into the start of the spring racing   stocked bar.”
                                                                                                   13
Historic hill climb
                                    THE Bendigo Car Club is proud to present the
                                    2021 Mount Tarrengower Historic Hill Climb
                                    on the weekend of October 16-17.
                                      Taking place in the historic township of
                                    Maldon, this motor racing event is one of the
                                    oldest hill climbs in Australia.
                                      Cars follow the access road from the
                                    camping area at the bottom of Mount
                                    Tarrengower to the fire lookout at the top.
                                      Unlike a traditional motor racing course, the
                                    hill climb is lined by trees and rocks, making
                                    the climb to the top a test of bravery and
                                    discretion where vehicles dating pre-1972,
                                    motorbikes and sidecars compete to see who
                                    can complete the course the fastest.
                                      Practice runs start on Saturday from 12 noon
                                    to 4.30 pm, with the timed runs taking place on
                                    Sunday from 9 am to 4.30 pm.
                                      In addition, a classic vehicle display will be
                                    available for members of the public to view.
                                      For updated information go to the Mount
                                    Tarrengower Historic Hill Climb Facebook
                                    page or www.bendigocarclub.com.au.

     Live music September 4 and selected weekends throughout Spring

     An afternoon & evening of beautiful art, Pyrenees wine,
       delicious local food & acoustic live performance

                                     At the historic Avoca Railway Station
                                           13-15 York Avenue, Avoca
                                       OPEN Friday-Monday 11am-4pm
                                          Contact Hugh 0439 462 344

14
A platform for art, music, wine and song
GALLERY 127, situated at
the Avoca Railway Station, is
busy planning for a series of
exciting events throughout
spring.
   Hugh Forster, the president
of Avoca Community Arts
and Gardens, said the future
is looking bright as the
community considers the best
way to use the incredible
space available to the arts
community.
   “One event we are putting
a lot of planning into is
Silobration Under the Stars,”
Hugh said.
   “We have applied for a
grant that will enable us to
put on a major music event in
front of the silos.
   “We have the capacity for
1000 people, and the event
will incorporate a light show,
food vans, a bar and an
alcohol-free children’s area.
   “We are in the process of       The recently completed Silo Owl will oversee the music and festival events
organising musicians. Keith
Urban might be a bit out of our price range,         the last minute. With this in mind, they have
but we’re thinking of someone like Joe               also been busy developing an online virtual
Camilleri or John Butler.”                           gallery.
   Hugh said the gallery is also planning to            “It’s a great innovation as all of our
bring back live music on the platform of the         exhibitions can be viewed on any device, and
station, which was a great success prior to          people are able to buy works online,” Hugh
Covid.                                               said.
   “The weekend just before the major                   “The site adds another dimension to the
lockdown last year we hosted Aria Capella on         gallery as we are also able to show portfolios of
the platform, which was a great success, so we       artists, so work that might not be displayed is
are looking forward to bringing that back,” he       available to buy.”
said.                                                   Visit the gallery Friday through Monday to
   The entertainment on the platform will kick       view changing exhibitions.
off on Saturday, September 3 with an                    September will feature three watercolourists;
afternoon celebration of Pyrenees wine, food         James McKay, Julia Meere and Des Lowry.
and live music. Other live music events will         October – Miniatures by Mel Gilmour and
continue on selected weekends throughout             artwork by Nyrel Saunders. November – Nada
Spring.                                              Larner, 3D Pointillism art (dot art) design.
   Like all organisations, Gallery 127 is mindful December – emerging young artist, Frances
that the best laid plans could be cancelled at       Morgan.
                                                                                                           15
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Places to stay in the goldfields
COVID-19 travel restrictions have meant more         dinner and breakfast and be on our way easily
tourists are discovering what their own state        the next day.
has to offer. For some, like the traditional ‘grey      “Motels are also great if you are new to an
nomads’– who pre-Covid might have planned            area, as the owners are usually ready for a chat
a months-long trek around the country – this         and can recommend places to eat and things to
has meant shorter trips to destinations within       see. If we are coming for a bit longer, maybe
their own state.                                     with others, we will stay in a B&B, as that
  Tourism operators in the Central Goldfields        allows us to self-cater and share expenses.”
have noticed an influx of visitors, with many           Like many weekend tourists, Sue and Steve
new to the area expressing surprise at what the      often bring their dog with them on their travels,
region has to offer. Whether it’s a weekend          so prefer accommodation that is pet friendly.
away or a weeks-long adventure of discovery,            “Most accommodation places allow pets
when it comes to accommodation options in            now, which is different to 20 years ago when we
the goldfields, travellers are spoilt for choice.    used to travel with a young family. Back then
  Sue and Steve are frequent visitors to central     one of the most expensive parts of travelling
Victoria, and have noticed changes in how            was the boarding fees for the animals.”
people travel and where they stay.                      The couple also enjoy traditional camping,
  “We’ve stayed in small roadside motels,            and will often head into the bush for a few days
B&Bs, caravan parks and free camping spots,”         at one of the free camping spots. While they
Sue said.                                            might enjoy ‘roughing’ it, one thing Sue does
  “Where we choose to stay depends on the            insist on is toilet facilities.
time of the year, how long we are here for and          “We don’t have a porta-loo, so usually look
why we are here.                                     for a spot with the basics,” she said.
  “On the occasions we are just passing                 “My limit in the bush is about three days,
through we might stay at a motel, as there’s no      then we usually book into a motel for a shower
need to completely unpack, we can go out for         and a clean bed!”
16
Luxury at the Bull & Mouth                                                                             A
                                                                                                       C
                                                                                                       C
THE Bull and Mouth Hotel in                                                                            O
Maryborough has been painstakingly                                                                     M
restored to its former glory, combining                                                                M
the opulence of the gold rush era with                                                                 O
modern-day, state-of-the-art design.                                                                   D
   Proprietors Jo and Mick Reid feel it                                                                A
is important to honour the history and                                                                 T
grandeur of the beautiful building, and                                                                I
maintain the standards established in                                                                  O
1904 when the stunning two-storey                                                                      N
property that exists today was built,
with modern conveniences such as piped hot                  through or couples celebrating a special
water and a telephone system.                               occasion.
   “When guests arrive, they are often surprised              “It is also a lovely venue for weddings or
that the inside of the building is as grand as the          special birthdays, we have reception areas, a
exterior,” Jo said.                                         beautiful grand staircase and luxurious rooms,”
    “We have carefully incorporated the best of             she said.
traditional luxury with contemporary fittings                 The Bull and Mouth main cafe bar can seat
you would expect to find in a modern hotel.”                up to 100 people, the dining area can cater for
   With rooms ranging from king-single to                   50 and the intimate function room can
deluxe-king, Jo said they can cater for the needs           accommodate 60 diners or 70 for a stand-up
of most travellers, whether workers passing                 function.

    Luxury accommodation in the heart of Maryborough
    12 rooms from deluxe king to king single each with
   ensuite bathroom. Some rooms offer a balcony with a
   city view or street view. Enjoy an in-room continental
           breakfast or dine in the licensed café.

                      The venue features two bars,
                     conference and function room,
                        and underground cellar.

                     119 High Street, Maryborough
                               5461-3636
                 bullandmouthhotelmaryborough.com

                                                                                                         17
Enjoy your stay with us
                                                   Maryborough Caravan Park is perfectly positioned on
                                                   Lake Victoria within walking distance to town centre,
                                                       swimming pool, children’s playgrounds and
                                                                  local sporting facilities.

       Choose from fully self-contained one or two bedroom deluxe lake view cabins, two
     bedroom executive cabins or an open plan standard cabin. Caravans, motor homes and
        tents are well catered for with shady sites in summer and sunny sites in winter.
                                                    FACILITIES
                                                    • Sheltered free electric BBQ
                                                    • Camp kitchen               • Guest laundry
                                                    • Children’s playground      • Pet friendly
                                                    • Two modern amenities buildings, including baby bath
                                                      and facilities for disabled

7-9 Holyrood Street, Maryborough | 5460-4848 | www.maryboroughcaravanpark.com.au

         PARK FEATURES
         • Lake Frontage • Natural Bush Setting • Camp fires allowed • Dog Friendly – sites only
         • BBQ area and camp kitchen • Adventure playground and recreation room
         • Group bookings welcome with various catering options
         • Tennis, basketball, soccer and beach volleyball courts
         • Activities include fishing, swimming, skiing, bushwalking,
           cycling, and gold prospecting

         ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
         • Air Conditioned / Ensuite Cabins • Lakeview Cabins • Four Bedroom House
         • Powered and Unpowered Sites • Long Term Holiday Sites

                            Your Hosts: Duncan and Paula Jones       Scan this code with
                                                                      your smartphone
                       58 Brownbills Road, Laanecoorie Victoria 3463 to visit our website
        Phone 5435 7303 Email info@laanecoorie.com.au www.laanecoorie.com.au
18
A weekend away for any budget                                                                    A
                                                                                                 C
                                                                                                 C
RUNNING a roadside motel has been                                                                O
something of a learning curve for Terri                                                          M
and Dirk Arnold (pictured). Since taking                                                         M
over the Golden Country Motel and                                                                O
Caravan Park, they have been confronted                                                          D
with a ‘once in a lifetime’ pandemic.                                                            A
   As Terri explains, the past 18 months
                                                                                                 T
have not been easy and the business has
                                                                                                 I
had to adjust to changing conditions.
   “We are in a great location right                                                             O
opposite the golf club, but with COVID                                                           N
restrictions we have been a bit limited in
the rooms’ capacity. Whereas in the past
two golfers might share a room with a                   “We are also just down the road from
queen and single bed, now we can only have           Coiltek, so often have prospectors come and
one person per room (unless they are from the        stay.”
same household),” she said.                             In spite of the setbacks they have faced, the
   “But that said, we are in the process of          couple have been busy adding their own
refurbishing the rooms and it is a beautiful golf    touches to the property. With a variety of motel
course. People who come here certainly aren’t        rooms, self-contained cabins and caravan sites,
paying the crazy prices they would be in places      they can cater for travellers no matter their
like the Mornington Peninsula.                       needs or budget.

                                    Enjoy the quiet and relaxing
                                        atmosphere of the
                                GOLDEN COUNTRY MOTEL
                                  AND CARAVAN PARK
                                          In Maryborough
                                       We have several different
                                 accommodation options, including
                                motel rooms, self-contained cabins and
                                  villas and powered ensuite sites.
                                      • Pet Friendly • Inground Pool
                                    • Camp Kitchen • Family Friendly
                                • Children’s Playground • BBQ Facilities
                                  • TV & Recreation Room • Free Wi-Fi
                                    Book direct with us and save!

                                      Proprietors - Terri and Dirk
                                  Located opposite Golf & Bowls Club
                                     134 Park Road, Maryborough
                                                  03 5461 1101
                                          www.goldencountry.com.au

                                                                                                  19
A B&B that feels like home                                                                                  A
                                                                                                            C
                                                                                                            C
DEBBIE and John Nelsson thought
                                                                                                            O
retiring to Maryborough from the inner
suburbs of Melbourne would lead to a                                                                        M
quieter life. Then they bought a B&B.                                                                       M
   “We had no intention of buying a                                                                         O
B&B,” Debbie said.                                                                                          D
   “We were looking for an investment                                                                       A
rental property in Maryborough and                                                                          T
happened upon the property in Barkly                                                                        I
Street and fell in love with it.                                                                            O
   “It was already operating as a B&B and                                                                   N
we were not convinced that we could
continue to run it as successfully as it was        “We renamed the property Welcome
currently operating. However, the owners were    Stranger Cottage to play on welcoming guests
happy to sell it fully furnished and so we       and the gold heritage of the area,” Debbie
decided to have a try at a new venture. We       said.
have certainly been glad we did.”                   “We loved the history of the cottage and
   Since moving to Maryborough, the Nelsson’s    wanted to share it with others. It has a real
have researched much of the history of the       feeling of warmth and homeliness.
area. John in particular was keen to find out       “Instantly there was a high interest in staying
more about the background of the B&B, and        at our cottage and we had bookings
has shared this information with guests who      immediately. Over the last 18 months we have
stay.                                            had a wide variety of guests. Ladies enjoying a

                                         Welcome Stranger B&B
                                         Built in 1890, Welcome Stranger Cottage is set on a
                                         quiet street just minutes from the heart of Maryborough.
                                         This quaint three-bedroom miner’s cottage offers you all
                                         the comforts of home and is suitable for couples,
                                         families and social groups.
                                         - comfortably sleeps six     - fully-equipped kitchen
                                         - fenced backyard            - off-street parking
                                         - ducted cooling             - gas heater
                                         The charm of yesteryear with all modern conveniences.
                                         Book direct with owners, Debbie & John
                                         0413 378 838

                 Wattle Grove MOTEL & VILLA
                                         Motel       11 rooms – Single, Queen, Triple and Family
                                         New ensuites, TV, heating, aircon, microwave, fridge and toaster

                                         Villa Fully self­contained – 3 Bedrooms, sleeps 7
                                         Kitchen/dining, laundry and a private courtyard
                                                Set on 1 acre of landscape gardens with BBQ.
                                             Weekly rates. Ideal for Tradies, Prospectors and Groups
                                         65 Derby Road Maryborough (03) 5461 1877 0427 687 256
                                                          www.wattlegrovemotel.net.au

20
A
 Park your van and relax                                                                          C
                                                                                                  C
 WHEREAS in the past caravanning was just                                                         O
 one step up from camping in a tent, today’s                                                      M
 caravans include all the luxuries of home.                                                       M
 Caravan Parks in Avoca, Laanecoorie and                                                          O
 Maryborough have adapted to the changing                                                         D
 expectations of travellers.                                                                      A
    With self-contained cabins, ensuite powered                                                   T
 sites, powered and unpowered sites, all include                                                  I
 camp kitchens, playgrounds and laundry                                                           O
 facilities.                                           the Central Goldfields go to:              N
    For a full list of accommodation options           www.maryboroughadvertiser.com.au/
 including free camping and caravan parks in           accommodation

girls’ weekend away, couples staying for a week       Although we’ve hosted essential workers, we
to see if they could relocate to Maryborough,         have also had many cancellations.
families exploring the history of the area or           “The feedback we have received has been
celebrating family events, authors using the          sensational. Guests have loved the property, the
quiet space to write, couples having a romantic       history, the town and the local community.
weekend away and others exploring the gold            Several groups have stayed with us more than
fossicking in the area have all stayed with us.       once and intend to stay again. We believe that
   “Of course, COVID has hit and that has             our cottage is a plus for us, our guests and the
brought a new group of guests and challenges.         Maryborough community.”

  Accommodation in the heart of the Central Goldfields

                          Comfortable motel rooms in peaceful surroundings.
           Single, twin and family rooms with complimentary light breakfast and wifi access.
                    Spacious, elegant 1930s style private function room seating 80
                   available for hire, featuring commercial kitchen facilities and bar.

           72 Sutton Road, Maryborough P: 5460-4122 www.highlanderhavenmotel.com.au
                                                                                                    21
Taking care of mental health
                                                                                                       A
                                                                                                       C
                                                                                                       C
PROPRIETORS of Wattle Tree Country                      apparent to participants and staff,            O
Retreat, Chelsea Thompson and Darron Reid,              particularly with people living with           M
have been thrilled with the response to their           psychosocial disabilities.                     M
recently-opened respite farm in Amherst.                   “People who might struggle to               O
   “Local businesses have been really supportive        connect within the community because           D
of our programs, and our guests have loved the          of mental health issues are finding we         A
welcome they receive from the wider                     can support them and give them the             T
community,” Chelsea said.                               confidence they need to try new things,”       I
   Whether it’s horse riding, gold prospecting,         Chelsea said.                                  O
fishing, hiking, camping, cooking or just                  “In the past, these clients would have      N
enjoying the natural surrounds of the farm,             gone to PARC (Prevention and
staff at Wattle Tree Country Retreat ensure             Recovery Care), which is often the step
guests experience everything country life has to        before people are hospitalised.
offer.                                                     “Now they are coming to us and we’re
   Chelsea said it has been her dream to offer          finding they don’t need to go to hospital;
respite service that provided guests with a             staying here is preventing any escalation of
special experience. She has combined her love           their mental health and admission to hospital.
of animals with her passion for helping people             “We’re finding that people who might have
and offers short-term respite for people with a         depression come up here and get away from
disability, mental health issues or an acquired         that hustle and bustle of city life. Sometimes all
brain injury.                                           they need is to stop and take time to chill out,
   The benefits of the farm stay are becoming           and this is the perfect place to do that.”

                                                   Wattle Tree Country Retreat
                                             is a respite service full of engagement,
                                                participation, action & adventure!
     – Disability service offering respite and short term accommodation.
     - A safe environment to enjoy a unique country experience and gain life skills.
     - Needing a break or country getaway? Want an adventure experience or just to relax? Contact us now.

                                  wattletreecountryretreat.com.au
                              365 Lillicur Road, Amherst | 5463-2554

22
Loddon events are back
MILD, sunny days and star-filled evenings         such as the truck show, a mix of family
make spring the perfect time to explore the       entertainment, horse events, an animal farm,
beautiful Loddon Valley.                          market stalls and so much more.
  With an abundance of special events there is       Fishing enthusiasts will look forward to the
so much to enjoy.                                 Boort Annual Fishing Competition and
  The weekend of September 11-12, is the          Family Weekend on October 16-17. Held on
Annual Engine Rally at Wedderburn. A              the shores of Little Lake Boort you will find a
great day out for the whole family – featuring    great environment, a friendly atmosphere and
old engines, vehicles, farm machinery and         lots of prizes.
many items of yesteryear.                            Art lovers will enjoy visiting the Loddon
  The Friends of Kooyoora are hosting a           Valley on the weekend of October 23-24, with
Spring Wildflower Special Activities              the Loddon Valley Arts Trail launching this
Weekend on September 18-19. Highlights            year. Visit 11 venues and see works of more
include guided wildflower walks, guest            than 25 artists across the region.
presenters and static displays.                      Those simply seeking the beauty of nature
  Wedderburn will be hosting the 8th              will find it in spades. Enjoy camping or a picnic
National Historical Machinery                     amidst 460-million-year-old granite outcrops
Association’s Tractor Trek September 30           that offer 360-degree views.
to October 3. Come along and see at least 200        Hike or cycle along bushland trails, and
magnificent tractors.                             through the picturesque historic villages,
  On October 9, the 133rd Annual Boort            appreciating the magic of this beautiful region
Show will be bringing back some favourites        during a wonderful time of year.

    BRIDGEWATER • BOORT • DINGEE • EDDINGTON • INGLEWOOD • KORONG VALE • LAANECOORIE
       MITIAMO • NEWBRIDGE • PYRAMID HILL • SERPENTINE • TARNAGULLA • WEDDERBURN

                    For further information contact:
                    The Loddon Visitor Information Centre
                    24 Wilson Street, Wedderburn
                    Phone: 03 5494 3489
                    visitloddonvalley.com.au

                                                                                                23
CENTRAL GOLDFIELDS
                                      TRINKETS & TREASURE TRAIL

 To St Arnaud                                           25.
   40.5 km                                                   4k
                               Bealiba                           m
                                                                         Once again we have added
                                                                      new traders to the Trinkets
        Archdale                                      Dunolly         and Treasure Trail.
        Junction                                                         We have had feedback
                             km

                                                                      from the traders that (in
                                                          To Bendigo between lockdowns) the
                                         km
                         .1
                       20

                                     . 3                   60.4 km    goldfields have been busy
                                  38                                  with people looking for

                                                                      23.9 k
   To          Natte Yallock                                          treasures.
Moonambel                                                Bet Bet
                                                                         We would love to hear
  19 km

                                                                            m
                             29.4 km                                  from  you!
                                                                         Have you found anything
                   18.2 km

                            Wareek          Bowenvale                 unexpected or special in your
                                                                      fossicking? Do you have a
                                                                      favourite place to shop?
                                km                    Maryborough        Let us know - email
                           27.4                                       getawaygoldfields@gmail.com.
               Avoca                                                     You can also access this
                                Bung Bong              To Castlemaine tour online just scan this
                                                          47.9 km     QR code.
                                                                     km
                                                                  14.9

  To Ararat
   63 km
                                                Talbot
                                                                     18
                                                                      .5
                                                                         km

                                                                                   Clunes               FIND THIS
                                                                                                       TOUR ONLINE
                                                   To Ballarat 33.2 km

  Antiques Bottles Collectables Crystals Gemstones Mineral Samples
                                                       Shop
                                               144 High Street, Avoca
                                        Open Thursday to Monday 10am ­ 4pm
                                                 Phone 5465­3887
                                                              Open 24/7
                                           website http://www.antiquebottles.com.au
                                               Email ron@antiquebottles.com.au
                                        Facebook Antique Bottles Collectables Shop Avoca
  Treasures, Books, Retro, Antique Bottles, Vintage, Furniture, Glass Ware, China, Tools, Garage Items, Heritage Prints and much more...

24
CENTRAL GOLDFIELDS
                                   TRINKETS & TREASURE TRAIL

AVOCA                                                         Yellow Dog Vintage & Design – 115B Broadway,
Sticky Beaks - 123 High St, Avoca. 0438 653 474.              Dunolly. 0418 875 453. Open Sat - Sun 10am - 3pm or by
Open 7 days 10am - 4pm. Shared shop combining                 appointment. Eclectic vintage wares, decorating treasures,
unique/funky crafts and clothing, antique bottles and items   mid-century furniture, art and curated crafts.
of interest.                                                          Dunolly Bakery – 97 Broadway, Dunolly.
Antiques Bottles & Collectables – 144 High St, Avoca.                 5468 1331. Mon - Fri 7am - 4pm,
0412 965 001. Open Thur - Mon 10am - 4pm. Includes                    Sat - Sun 7am - 2pm.
an interesting selection of crystals, polished stones and
Australian minerals.                                          MARYBOROUGH
Avoca Recyclers – Cnr Rowe St and Hamer Ct, Avoca.            Museum of Australian History & Art – Maryborough
0409 164 368. Open Mon - Fri 8.30am - 4.30pm,                 Railway Station platform, 29 Station St, Maryborough.
Sat 8.30am - 1pm. Second-hand recycled building               0477 589 692. Open Thur - Sun 10am - 4pm and public
materials, deceased estates and furniture.                    holidays or by appointment. Australian history with a
                                                              particular focus on Indigenous and gold rush heritage.
Westbury Antiques – 119 High St, Avoca. 5465 3406 or
0412 949 721. Open by appointment. English period             Maryborough Marketplace – 47 Nolan St,
furniture (circa 17th & 18th century) and decorative arts.    Maryborough. 0429 184 716. Open 7 days, 9.30am -
For the discerning collector.                                 3.30pm. Packed with a combined selection of new and old
Watlington Collectables – 5465 3230. Open by                  goods. Collectables, books, records and jewellery.
appointment only. Bus & tour groups welcome. Historical
                                                              Coach Factory Pickers Market – 84 Nolan Street,
items ranging from fully restored classic and vintage cars,
                                                              Maryborough. 0449 759 146. Open Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm,
workshop tools, household and garage memorabilia.
                                                              Sat & Sun 10am - 4pm. 25 independent stores selling
Clydesdale Curios – 136 High Street, Avoca.                   second-hand wares, antiques and collectables.
0451 400 917. Open Sat & Sun 11am - 4pm, weekdays by
request. Household nick-nacks and items of interest.          Granny’s Attic – 84 Nolan St, Maryborough.
                                                              0418 352 801. Open 7 days. Buys and sells gold jewellery,
Ratatat Emporium – 142 High Street, Avoca.                    vinyl records and collectables. Cash paid for unwanted,
0419 579 555. Bespoke millinery, repurposed furniture and     broken or estate jewellery.
interesting decor items. Stylish and contemporary.
Open by appointment until the end of September.               Needful Things – 106 Nolan St, Maryborough.
Open regularly from October.                                  0427 590 180. Open 7 days, 9.30am - 2.30pm.
        The Olive & Lavender Store –                          Vintage toys and collectables, retro gaming.
        106 High Street, Avoca. 5465-3777.                    Maryborough Lions Club Bookshop – 124 High St,
        Open 7 days 8am - 4pm.                                Maryborough. 0484 764 578. Open Mon - Fri 9am - 4pm,
BEALIBA                                                       Sat 9am - 1pm. A range of books to catch the eye of the
                                                              most dedicated bookworm.
Serendipity – Main St, Bealiba. 0484 613 855.
Open Fri - Sun 10am - 3pm or by appointment. Vintage          Amaroo Antiques & Art – 82 Nolan St, Maryborough.
wares, Australiana, books, vintage toys, bric-a-brac.         0447 501 554. Open Mon, Wed, Thur, Fri 10am - 4pm.
                                                              Sat 10am - 1pm.
CLUNES
Timeless Harmony – 65 Fraser St, Clunes. 5345 3480.                   Madam Chi Chi – Cnr Nolan and Napier Sts,
Thurs - Sun 10am - 5pm. Gifts, home & garden,                         Maryborough. 0401 929 727.
accessories, clothes and more.                                        Open Mon - Wed 7am - 4pm,
                                                                      Thu - Fri 7am - 8pm, Sat 2pm - 9pm.
Clunes Bottle Museum – 70 Bailey St, Clunes.
5345 3896. Thurs - Sun 11am - 4pm. Housed in the
decommissioned South Clunes State School, the collection      TALBOT
consists of more than six thousand historical bottles and     Talbot Bazaar – 2 Ballarat St North, Talbot. 5463 2002.
other related objects dating from 1500 AD to present time.    Open Sat - Sun 1am - 3pm or by appointment.
         O’Hara’s Café- Bakery – 24 Fraser St, Clunes.        Ever-changing range of antiques, collectables and décor
         5345 3700.                                           set inside an historic 150-year old bluestone hotel.
                                                              Talbot Provedore & Eatery –
DUNOLLY                                                       42 Scandinavian Cres, Talbot. 5463 2008.
Broadway Antiques & Collectables – 115A Broadway,             Open Fri - Sun 10am - 3pm.
Dunolly. 0447 783 696. Open Fri - Sun 10am - 4pm.             Evening meals - Sat from 6pm.
                                                                                                                      25
A tour around Dunolly by John Moir
APPROACHING Dunolly from                                As you cross the railway line there is a
Maryborough, just before you cross a creek, is       junction to your left – the straight railway line
a period two-storey building with a lot of           on the left heads to Mildura, and the one to the
history.                                             right takes you to Inglewood and beyond.
   This was originally called the Junction Hotel.    Ahead on the right-hand corner of Broadway
Take a left turn just opposite the motel and         will be a new show place for vehicles and on
head down to the silos. This area is quite           the left-hand corner ahead was the original
different to earlier days where it was a silo that   home of the famous Crouch Fishing Reel.
was approximately one mile long with a                  Turn left along Broadway. Just before you
structure of timber poles and corrugated iron        cross the railway line to Inglewood and further
cladding.                                            north, look to your right at the two-storey
   Turn right past the current solo buildings –      building still called Footers Mansion, circa
note most grain in present times is stored under     1865. It has been a home and a guest house.
covers behind the buildings. Next is the railway     On the left-hand side of Broadway is one of
station and shed or what remains of them.            the three old mail boxes still in existence.
Right next to the station is the Cork Tree. It is    Another is outside Hall’s Garage and the third
quite unique for the area as Cork Trees are          outside the Museum.
more likely found in Turkey.                            Cross the railway line
   It is rumoured that a restoration of the          and soon you will find a
railway buildings is scheduled in the future.        walnut orchard. Pass on a
Take the next railway crossing and you will          little further and you will
find the old Terminus Hotel. The Avoca Hotel         see the local transmission
was next door in earlier days.                       tower for Telstra.
   Back towards the railway line is McKinnon            On the right-hand side is
Street so take that north and you will come to       a small cemetery (one of
Tweeddale St. We will return to this point after     those used in the early days
a short view of the golf club. So, continuing on     of Dunolly). Take the next
you will find a turn into the golf club. The         turn to the right –
entrance is off Separation Road (turn right          Cemetery Road. The cemetery is on your left
into Separation Road). Return to Tweeddale           but turn right here and on your right is the
Street and turn left up to Broadway.                 original winery, and the ruin next door is the
                                                     original home. The property is still owned by
                                                     descendants of the original Daly Family.

                                                        Continue on back into town. In Raglan
                                                     Street there is an original slab structure shed of
                                                     interest. Cross the railway line and on your
                                                     right are the twin ovals of Deledio Reserve
                                                     with the primary school on your left.
26
Of note also as you cross the railway line is        head out over the railway line to see a reserved
that under here is the end of the main gold             area of mining holes.
lead that runs under Dunolly. It narrows here              Continue on for approximately two
and opens up again on the other side of the             kilometres and just before the railway line turn
line.                                                   in to the left to see the earlier water reservoir.
                                                        In the wild flower season, you may like to take
                                                        the road further over the railway line crossing
                                                        and go straight for about a kilometre and see
                                                        what is on offer.
                                                           Return into Dunolly and at Lawrence St
                                                        turn left and go straight down and on up Alice
                                                        St to the end of the bitumen beside the
                                                        Catholic Church. Stop here and look on the
                                                        left and see the first reservoir that lasted only
                                                        six months before it broke its bank and flooded
                                                        the town.
   Turn left at the primary school and on your
                                                           With the flood mitigation works you will note
right is the new Alvah Art Gallery. Immediately
                                                        the old embankment and the new. Then note
take the next turn left down Rheola Rd and
                                                        the lined channel that heads down and under
                                                        the Eddington Road. Proceed down Alice St to
                                                        Edington Road and go left to see where the
                                                        water passes under the road.
                                                           At this point we have completed this version
                                                        of the outer tour of Dunolly and district.

                                                           For more driving tours of the region call in at the
                                                                Alvah Art Gallery or give me, John,
                                                                     a call on 0439 029 989.

        Alvah
      Art Gallery
     114 Dunolly-Bridgewater Road, Dunolly
        Artist in residence John Moir
          Open daily 10 am-5 pm                              www.alvahgallery.com.au
     Small vintage car display — Local tours arranged                 0439 029 989
                                                                                                                 27
All aboard for murder
IMMERSE yourself in the atmosphere of the
1974 movie classic Murder on the Orient Express as
you journey on the refurbished steam train
from Castlemaine to Maldon and back.
   You might like to start the evening at 5.30
pm at the atmospheric Railway Hotel in
Castlemaine. Just opposite the station, the hotel                                Dressed to impress for the Orient Express
offers a 10 percent discount on their a la carte
menu to passengers who have pre-booked a                                 level crossing bells and the passing lights in the
meal.                                                                    night.
   Don’t forget to dress in your best attire from                           During the journey, and at interval at
the 1920s, 30s or 40s and you must show your                             Maldon, the fully stocked bar is open and
movie ticket.                                                            stewards are on hand to offer a drinks and
   It’s just a short stroll to platform three, ready                     snack service that Poirot would be proud of.
to start your journey at 7.00 pm. A welcome-                             On the return journey to Castlemaine, watch
aboard glass of champagne is followed by a                               as Poirot (played by Albert Finney) solves the
short introductory talk on the background and                            ultimate ‘whodunit’.
actual events that led Agatha Christie to pen                               Dinner must be booked directly with the
the novel.                                                               Railway Hotel:
   As the train slowly makes its way through the                         www.railwayhotelcastlemaine.com.au
night to Maldon, the movie is accompanied by                                For more events and functions go to:
the sights and sounds of the steam engine, the                           www.vgr.com.au

                                                                          The authentic heritage railway linking
                                                                            the historic gold mining towns of
                                                                                Castlemaine and Maldon
 Our friendly volunteer staff will ensure you have a memorable day out on
 your train ride through the central Victorian Goldfields.

 * Family friendly compartments - where the kids can lean out the window and enjoy the scenery.
 * A touch of first class - experience a little of the Golden Age of rail travel in Edwardian splendour
   or Art Deco style carriages with open lounges, full bar service and end viewing platform.
 * Ride with the driver - for a small extra fare you can ride in the cab. Pre booking recommended.

 Trains run Wednesdays and Sundays plus term school holiday Saturdays and some public
 holidays.
 For detailed timetable and fare information please visit our website.
 Online bookings are strongly recommended.

 www.VGR.com.au                         email: info@vgr.com.au

28
Pyrenees Art is back at Beaufort
THE 15th Annual Community Bank Beaufort
Pyrenees Art Exhibition will be held on Friday
24th, Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th of
September.
  COVID restrictions meant the exhibition
couldn’t run at the usual time on the Queen’s
Birthday weekend. Exhibition coordinator Ann
Beer said the committee decided to postpone,
rather than cancel, the event, hopeful that by
September restrictions will have returned to
‘COVID-normal’.                                           Exhibition in the Beeripmo Centre happening
  “The safety and wellbeing of our artists,               at the same time, it will be a great weekend to
sponsors, volunteers and patrons was our chief            visit Beaufort.
concern,” Ann said.                                          “Restrictions allowing, we will have a
  “We had 415 works to hang as well as 43                 wonderful exhibition in September.”
works from students. We have advised all the                 Delivery dates for art works are September
artists who had entered and we are confident              19 and September 21, 2021. The official
that they will all be participating in the                opening of the exhibition will take place on
exhibition in September.                                  Friday, September 24 and raffle tickets will be
  “With the Pyrenees Art Exhibition at the                sold until the end of the weekend.
Shire Hall, and with the Rotary Second-hand                  All tickets purchased for the Queens
Book Stall in the RSL Hall and the Quilting               Birthday event are still valid.

 Order your sweet treats                                                                                   Rescheduled
       for delivery
                                                           2021

                                                             Friday 24 & Saturday 25 September 10am - 5pm
                                                             Sunday 26 September 10am - 2pm
                                                             Admission $10 (includes Devonshire Tea)
                                                             Beaufort Shire Hall, Lawrence St, Beaufort
                                                                                                       Proudly presented by
                                                             Official Opening
  Handcrafted sweets & treats to make every day special      Friday 24 September 7.30pm
                                                             $25pp
         sweetpyrenees.com.au                                (bookings essential, ph. 0417 369 322)
 128 High Street, Avoca | 0418 374 330                       Check out www.pyreneesartexhibition.org for more details.

  Open Wed - Sat 9.30am - 4pm,
        Sun 10am - 3pm
                                                                                                                              29
Cellar Door | Restaurant | Accommodation | Gourmet Deli | Bakery

                                               Cellar Door Open Daily 10-5pm
                                                    for Tastings/Wine Sales

                                        WOOD FIRED PIZZA
                                        Open for Dinner Friday & Saturday 6-8pm
                                         & Lunches Wednesday-Sunday 12-3pm
                                       Specialty pizzas feature homegrown lamb and pork

                                              5967 Stawell-Avoca Rd, Moonambel
                                             5467-2264 | summerfieldwines.com.au

                                                History, Gold & Grapes
                                                  You are amongst it all at the
     the
      olive and lavender              AVOCA CARAVAN PARK
                  store
                      • Breakfast
                      • Light lunch
                      • Cakes
                      • Giftware      • 5 shady acres
                                      • Situated beside the           • Clean and spacious
                      • Local           Avoca River                     amenities
                                      • Walk to town centre           • Dogs permitted at
                        produce       • 4 self contained cabins         manager’s discretion
                                      • 51 powered sites              • Miners rights for sale
                      Open 7 days     • 20 unpowered sites            • Metal detectors for hire
                                                                      • Eftpos facilities
                      8am - 4pm                                         available
                                                                 2 Liebig Street, Avoca, Vic
                                                                          5465-3073
                      5465 3777            AVOCA                 www.avocacaravanpark.
           106 HIGH STREET, AVOCA        Caravan Park                      com.au

30
Wine, food and fun across the Pyrenees
AND here’s cheers to all of Victoria! While our
community is a bit disconnected like an
unfinished jigsaw puzzle, we are doing our best
to fight off the dreaded virus while attempting
to keep some normality in our lives.
   So now spring is upon us we look forward to
spending a little more time outdoors and
travelling not too far from home to enjoy some
of the wonderful experiences to be had across     Beaufort. See music legends at November Sun
the Central Goldfields.                           in Avoca and view a huge collection of
   Day trips and weekend stays in the Pyrenees    artworks at The Pyrenees Art Exhibition in
offer a relaxing and indulgent break. This        Beaufort.
award-winning wine region is under recognised       Then, why not get a little exercise in at the
for the exceptional quality of it’s vineyards.    Beaufort Walkfest. Ride the Pyrenees ranges in
Paired with events such as the Blue Pyrenees      the Magic Bikeride and get aboard the historic
Avoca Cup, we can enjoy a traditional country     Lake Goldsmith Steam Rally.
race meeting with delicious food and wine           The aforementioned Avoca Cup is the cherry
experiences.                                      on top of what will be a most exciting time to
   On the calendar for spring, should Covid       be out and about with family and friends.
restrictions allow, is something for everyone.      For more information on all these events
   Summerfield Vineyard Paella in the Pyrenees    contact the accommodation and booking office
in Moonambel and the Agricultural Show in         on 1800 206 622 or go to visitpyrenees.com.au.

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