New Ski Product - Victorian Ski season 2009

With a bumper 2009 ski season is well and truly underway in Victoria, we give you the scoop on some of the newest activities, events and programs around the mountains.

Mt Buller - Australian Yukigassen Championships ("snow battle" tournament)
Teams will converge on Mt Buller this spring to compete in Australia's only competitive snowball fighting tournament, the Australian Yukigassen Championships on 12 September. Originating in Sobetsu Japan, Yukigassen is a rapidly growing winter sport with major tournaments held all over the world. The sport comprises of a series of ‘snow battles' in which two teams of seven take to the Yukigassen arena with 90 snowballs a side, three minutes of intense snowball action and attempt to steal one another's team flag.

Mt Baw Baw - new snow-making and snow-grooming tours
Visitors to Mt Baw Baw have the opportunity join with snowmaking and snow-grooming operators and get a closer insight on how they work. An exacting scientific process, snowmaking is entirely weather dependent - operators constantly monitor air temperature, water pressure, wind direction and other elements to determine when the conditions are right. When the conditions are right, interested visitors who register for the tour will be contacted by mobile 30 minutes prior to when the snow-making tour is set to begin.
Mt Baw Baw is also offering new snow groomer tours, which provide a limited number of resort guests the opportunity to ride in Mt Baw Baw's snow groomers at night.

Falls Creek - new ‘Boomer on Groomers' tour and snow-cat dinners
Falls Creek is offering Boomer on Groomers - a niche program specifically tailored to suit patrons aged 50 and over who are looking to gain the latest in skills and improve their skiing technique. Also new at Falls Creek is their snow-cat dinners where resort guests can travel via a snow-cat through the resort's snowmaking 'engine room' ending at Dicky Knees restaurant. Once there, a three course European-style dinner is served, complemented by local wines and beer from local microbrewer Sweetwater Brewing Company, and the chance to chat to one of the hard-working snow makers or groomer operators.

Hotham - Board Like a Girl / L'Oreal Women's Weeks Ski or Board.
Hotham has started two new female-friendly programs Board Like a Girl and L'Oreal Women's Weeks Ski or Board.
Running on the first Saturday in August and September, Board Like a Girl is a great new program for females who want to take their riding to the next level. Guests will explore the mountain in the morning with pro-riders and in the afternoon have a two hour snowboarding lesson with female instructors.
A three day program for women intermediate level or above, L'Oreal Women's Weeks Ski or Board (22-24 September) is priced at $417 and includes lift ticket for all days, four hours of daily instruction in a supportive environment with other women, half hour massage at Hotham's White Spa, as well as optional sessions offered on makeup with L'Oreal, women's equipment, fitness and tuning.

Media contact:
Hotham: Gina Woodward, Ph: (03) 5759 4464 or email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Falls Creek: Ian Talbot Ph: 0418413718 or email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Mt Buller: Rhylla Morgan Ph: (03) 5777 7822 or email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Mt Baw Baw: Sallie Jones Ph: (03) 5165 1165 or email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

New Wining and Dining Hot Spots in Melbourne

Coda Bar + Restaurant
Basement 141 Flinders Lane (Cnr Oliver Lane)
Melbourne Ph: (03) 9650 3155

Open for less than a month and already the hit of the season, Coda Bar + Restaurant is already shaping up to be this year’s ‘don’t miss’ dining experience. Not surprising when you consider that the force at work in the kitchen is Adam D’Sylva, formerly of Pearl and Longrain and named Young Chef of the Year by The Age Good Food Guide 2008.

D’Sylva has opened Coda in partnership with two equally talented hospitality folk: Mykal Bartholomew, former manager of MoVida, and Kate Calder, ex-floor supervisor of Taxi.

This basement hideaway with its chic black furnishings has a polished but unpretentious air, and when we visited just 10 days after opening, the place was packed to the rafters with fashionable, upmarket types including at least one fellow restaurant owner (always a good sign).

The menu offers a fusion of mouth-watering European and Asian tapas-style treats served on share plates. With prices varying from $5 - $10 for these small portions, you really can try a lot of things on the menu (sugarcane prawns and vegetarian san choi bow are among the highlights) and still have room (and budget) for dessert.

Berlin Bar
16 Corrs Lane
Melbourne, Ph: (03) 9639 3396

For those keen to impress friends or interstate / international visitors with their intimate knowledge of Melbourne’s coolest laneway bars, a visit to the recently opened Berlin Bar will go a long way.

Gaining entry is an intriguing rite-of-passage experience:  locate the doorway next to ‘Eurotrash Bar’ on Corrs Lane (also quite challenging to find), climb several flights of stairs to the bar’s locked front door, ring the bell, and wait - eyeballing the huge poster of Charlie Chaplin in The Great Dictator - for a staff member to come down and let you in.

One room is dedicated West Berlin - here there are touches of decadence with black walls and a shiny, economically-sized black bar, white vinyl quilted couches, gold gilt frames around the windows, a little interior balcony with its own iron lace and campy pictures of strange fetish-attired people in playful poses.

Choose a seat in the other room - East Berlin - and you find a much starker environment, with red chairs resembling those in Kubrick’s 2001 space station, tables made from converted bath tubs, and in one corner, an entire bed, complete with army blankets and weapon cases for ornaments.  Most fascinating East Berlin decorations are the old pre-unification maps and a vintage radio-record player which plays all three rotations (45, 33, 78).

The drinks list - served directly to your table throughout both rooms - is housed in an authentic recreation of a West German passport, and features one of the city’s finest selections of premium spirits, a handpicked range of bottled Bavarian beers, an eclectic array of Australian, New Zealand and German wines, and a luxurious assortment of French Champagne.  The adjoining post-modern cocktail list is contemporary, yet classic, with a focus on shared punches and sangarees.

Little Markov
350 Drummond Street
Carlton (03) 93477113

Considered one of Carlton’s best-kept-secrets, Markov, a European-style restaurant, has added a new member to its family - Little Markov.
Once a basic cleanskin bottle shop, Little Markov has transformed into one of the neighborhood’s trendiest bars. The setup is all about the drinking experience. The bar top is made from recovered tallow wood from an old Sydney wharf and there is vast selection of beer and wine. Markov’s delicious cuisine infiltrates right into Little Markov’s snacking menu with choices including roasted pumpkin croquettas and shoestring fries with homemade aioli. With the bar spilling out onto the street’s pavement, feel part of the streetscape while you peruse the wine list.

The Chophouse / Goose & Vinyl Bar
91-93 Flinders Lane
Melbourne Ph: (03) 9639 7511

The Chophouse is a new bar and restaurant that occupies the space that was formerly the Duckboard House RSL on Flinders Lane.
With a brand new fit-out, the downstairs restaurant has tables and cosy booth seating (perfect for a biting Melbourne winter) and an inspired menu with chopped salads, a variety of meat cuts and seasonal entrees. Upstairs, is the Goose & Vinyl Bar, the perfect place for after work drinks, especially for music lovers. Here you can browse through a huge selection of vinyl LPs and a ‘vinyl menu’, make a selection and their friendly staff will play the music you’re in the mood on their two in-house turntables.

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
1 Convention Centre Place
South Wharf, Victoria, Ph: (03) 9235 8000

Victoria’s culinary diversity is showcased to local and overseas visitors at the new Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), which opened in July and boasts a purpose-built kitchen with nine chefs to cater for Melbourne’s major events.

Particularly noteworthy is MCEC’s food and wine offering which focuses on local producers and wineries. The kitchen sources the freshest local ingredients from a wide variety of producers including: Red Hill Cheese; Bill’s Farm at Victoria Market; Sher Wagyu at Ballan; Salute Olive Oil; Green Eggs and Yarra Valley Salmon and the wine list focuses on premium Victorian producers from across the State.

13 new microbreweries to discover in the new Beer Lovers Guide to Victoria’s Microbreweries

Beer lovers will now be able to explore the magnificent ale, pilsner, lager and more that Victoria’s microbreweries have on offer with the release of the fourth edition of The Beer Lovers’ Guide to Victoria’s Microbreweries.

The updated guide showcases 35 Victorian breweries and includes 20 in regional Victoria and features references to the brews produced, facilities available, tasting sheets, contact details, brewer profiles and anecdotes, and a map of Victoria with the locations of featured microbreweries. There’s also a handy guide to beer terminology designed to give beer lovers an understanding and appreciation of individual craft beer characteristics.

This edition has an additional 13 new breweries added including several new players which have been open two years or less. Among them:

Tooborac Hotel and Brewery (Macedon Ranges)
It’s not often that a pub opens its own brewery on the premises, but that is just the case with the historic Tooborac Hotel, which opened its own brewery in June 2009, making it the most recent addition to Victoria’s microbrewery industry. The Tooborac Brewery brews three ales, all named as a tribute to the region’s local craftsmen - the ‘Stonemasons’ pale ale,  ‘Woodcutters’ amber brew, and a ‘Blacksmiths stout, labelled ‘Blacksmiths’. The hotel, which was built from bluestone in the 1850s, underwent a major renovation in 2008 and is famous for its country hospitality, offering family friendly dining, beer (including all three of its own beers on tap) and cottage style accommodation.

2 Brothers Brewery (Melbourne)
After opening in January 2008, 2 Brothers Brewery has already made its presence felt, collecting eight medals at the Australian International Beer Awards. The brewing system was imported from New York City, and a cosy bar and beer hall were constructed around the brewery floor. Patrons can watch the brewing in action, and enjoy 2 Brothers beers straight from the tank to the glass.
In addition to the beer itself, 2 Brothers Beerhall also serves German-style foot long hotdogs on Thursday evenings and Friday lunch and on Friday nights visitors can enjoy wood-fired pizza and live music.

Sweetwater Brewing Company (High Country)
Based in the historic town of Mt Beauty, Sweetwater’s hand-crafted beers are brewed with the beautiful water of the Kiewa Valley. Their Brewery Bar, which opened in April at the rear of local winery Annapurna Estate, has already become a popular destination with visitors who can sample Sweetwater’s distinctive Pale Ale and Golden Bitter beers while soaking up the beauty of the High Country.

Coldstream Brewery (Yarra Valley)
The original brainchild of four local friends (including Kellybrook’s wine and cider maker Phil Kelly), Coldstream Brewery opened its doors to beer lovers and diners in June 2007. The restaurant and bar are housed in a charming old brick building in the heart of Coldstream, while the brewery itself was set up in a purpose-built extension of the restaurant, with large windows through which visitors can see the brewing process firsthand. Regular brewery tours are on offer followed by a tasting of the full range of draught products that includes a delicious handcrafted cider.

Other new breweries to feature in the guide include:

• The White Rabbit Brewery in Healesville which opened in early 2009 (see more information in ‘New offerings in the Yarra Valley’ story also in this issue of Pieces of Victoria)
• Flying Horse Bar & Brewery which opened in July 2008 and was the surprise winner of Champion Porter award at the 2009 Australian International Beer Awards less than a year later. (see story in June 2009 issue of Pieces of Victoria)
• Otway Estate, a winery / restaurant which expanded into brewing 2007 and brews 12 different preservative-free beers

The Beer Lovers’ Guide to Victoria’s Microbreweries is available free of charge at all good bottle shops and bars that sell Victorian craft brew, from the breweries themselves, and Information and Tourism Victoria outlets throughout the state.

For more information:
Ph: 132 842 (within Australia) to order a copy of The Beer Lovers’ Guide to Victoria’s Microbreweries.

For more information (about breweries featured in this story):
www.tooborachotel.com.au/home.php
www.2brothers.com.au
www.sweetwaterbrewing.com.au
www.whiterabbitbeer.com.au
www.theflyinghorse.com.au
www.otwayestate.com.au/beer.htm

Media contact:
Karen Golding Ph: 5989 2959 or email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

New offerings in the Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is synonymous with premium food and wine as well as an ever expanding list of exciting accommodation.  Add a few tantalising events into the mix and you soon discover why this is a truly inspirational destination. Some of the newest temptations in the region include new monthly cooking lessons and a vegie garden tour at Balgownie, a boutique beer brewery in Healesville, a new B&B and the Melba Festival.

White Rabbit: A new boutique brewery
White Rabbit Brewery, located next to Giant Steps / Innocent Bystander in Healesville’s main street, is a new brewery and the sister business of Little Creatures Dining Hall in Fitzroy. The stand alone business is an open-plan brewery with a cellar door and café located in the centre of the beer making operations. This is a great place to sample boutique beer, watch it being made and enjoy a bite to eat. The main point of difference is that the beer is made in open fermenters which is rare in Australia, and the beer is a tasty dark ale.

New cooking classes and vegetable garden tour commencing at Balgownie Estate
Mercure Yarra Valley Balgownie Estate Vineyard Resort and Spa’s award wining Rae’s Restaurant recently welcomed new Executive Chef Stephane Le Grand. As part of a range of exciting new initiatives at Balgownie French-born Le Grand will be starting monthly cooking classes at Rae’s Restaurant (beginning in August 2009), and then in November 2009, Le Grand will share his secrets with resort and restaurant guests during a free one-hour tour of the vegetable garden every Sunday at l0am.

Gracedale Yarra Valley - new premium accommodation
Set on 42 acres nestled in front of Mt Toolebewong State Forest with uninterrupted panoramic views across the valley, Gracedale Yarra Valley is a stunning new architect designed home which opened in January 2009 and offers contemporary accommodation in the heart of the Yarra Valley.
There are two king suites with deep spas, double glazed windows, plasma televisions and wireless internet. Guests are treated to a sumptuous cooked breakfast and a choice of dining in the privacy of their suite; or in the grand dining room.

Yarra Valley’s Melba Festival
World renowned opera singer, Dame Nellie Melba, was born and raised in the Yarra Valley. The Melba Festival (11 - 13 September) pays homage to her in a series of performances by leading Australian classical, jazz and young artists at 22 venues including some of the award wining wineries and at the Dandenong Ranges. This festival offers a delightful mix of food, wine and beautiful music in glorious surroundings with a two course lunch with matching wine incorporated into the price of the tickets.

For more information:
White Rabbit Brewery: http://www.whiterabbitbeer.com.au
Gracedale Yarra Valley: http://www.gracedaleyarravalley.com.au
Balgownie Estate: http://www.balgownieestate.com.au
Melba Festival: http://www.visitvictoria.com/Melbafestival
Media contact:
Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges - Karen Strahan, Ph: 0417 361 465 or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Mercure Yarra Valley Balgownie Estate - Leanne Tyrell, Ph: (03) 9629 7000 or email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Melbourne’s Spring Fashion Fever

Spring is the time Melbourne really comes into its own as Australia’s style capital with major fashion events, Melbourne Spring Fashion week and the beginning of Spring Racing Carnival. With great Spring Racing travel packages available through Blue Holidays and new cutting-edge retailers just waiting to be discovered, it’s official - Melbourne is the place to be for fashionistas this spring.

Spring Fashion week (1-6 September)
One of the key fashion events in Melbourne’s ever-expanding calendar, Melbourne Spring Fashion Week (MSFW) brings with it a jam-packed program of fashion parades, exhibitions and fashionable after-parade soirées. Include in this year’s program is Collins Street Fashion for the Soul, where Collins Street’s most prestigious retailers showcase their Spring/Summer 2010 collections to be held at beautiful Collins Street Baptist Church.

Spring Racing Carnival - Australia’s biggest fashion competition, Virgin Blue packages
The celebrations continue from 30 September when Victoria’s famous Spring Racing Carnival kicks off, bringing with it the most high profile fashion events in Australia. 
While the most famous event is The Emirates Melbourne Cup on 3 November, it’s on two other big race days - AAMI Derby Day (31 October) and Crown Oaks Day (5 November) - that the stylish really set their phasers to ‘stun’. The seriously fashionable should reserve their very best outfit for Oaks Day, when Myer Fashions on the Field competition turns Flemington into a virtual catwalk. Great flight and accommodation packages are available for Derby Day, Oaks Day and Melbourne Cup through Blue Holidays, the holiday arm of Virgin Blue.

New fashion retailers - Papillon and Come Back Kid
While in Melbourne, the fashionable visitors should check out Papillon in Block Place and the Comeback Kid in Rankins Lane, two new locations that have been creating a buzz in Melbourne’s hippest circles while simultaneously avoiding mainstream media coverage (although we don’t think that will be for long).

Both are hidden away in inner city laneways. These uber-cool shops boast beautiful surroundings, intimate service and cutting edge local and international fashion.

Tucked away up three flights of stairs in Block Place, Papillon - which opened earlier this year - is owned by the founders of local labels Rest in Peace and Elias Reign. Showcasing predominantly Melbourne labels, Papillon caters to both guys and girls and specialises in limited edition items. In May, the business scored a phenomenal retail coup by becoming the exclusive Melbourne retailer to stock the K by Karl Lagerfeld label.

The brain child of Greta Larkins and Patrick Roberts, the Come Back Kid - hidden away in Rankins Lane - stocks the latest menswear lines from Does Not Equal, Limedrop, Odeur, Neon Sleep, Orri Henrisson, and Trimapee.

For more information:
Spring / Fashion in Melbourne: go to http://www.visitvictoria.com
VRC Spring Racing packages: go to http://www.blueholidays.com.au

Media contact: Ingrid Sanders, Tourism Victoria Ph: (03) 9653 9745 or email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

 

Drive the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit

Visitors can enjoy a thrilling 30 minute experience driving the legendary Phillip Island Grant Prix Circuit in their own cars. This exciting new self-drive, which commenced in late June, is accompanied by touring guide instructions via an FM radio receiver. Drivers follow the race line of a V8 Supercar and are shown the popular overtaking and high speed braking areas on the fastest MotoGP course in the world. Cost of the drive is $85 per vehicle and includes as many passengers as the car can legally carry.

For more information: http://www.phillipislandcircuit.com.au
Media contact: Peter Mitchell Ph: (03) 5952 2710

 

Victoria’s High Country: new fly-drive deals through Blue Holidays and new product in Myrtleford

Victoria’s High Country will be the focus of great ‘fly-drive’ holiday offers on sale through Blue holidays, the holiday program of Virgin Blue.

For as little as $481* per person, interstate visitors can enjoy a short break holiday that includes return airfares from Sydney to Albury flying Virgin Blue, four nights accommodation at La Trobe in Beechworth (stay four nights, pay three!) five days car hire, breakfast daily plus a bottle of wine and a cheese platter.

Holiday must be booked by 31 August, and is valid for travel until 30 September 2009. To book this deal call Blue Holidays on 13 15 16 or visit http://www.virginblue.com.au/highcountry.

For those staying at Beechworth, don’t miss taking the short 25 minute drive to Myrtleford, the picturesque village that is considered the gateway to Victoria’s Alpine High Country, which in recent years has been punching well above its weight in the new food / wine and attractions stakes.

Here’s a couple of highlights:

Red Ramia Trading and Café Fez (Myrtleford)
Red Ramia Trading, a treasure trove of oriental and Moroccan furnishings, decorations and artefacts and its newly opened Middle Eastern eatery, Café Fez, is one of the must-visit destinations in Myrtleford.

At Red Ramia Trading visitors can pick up vibrantly coloured ceramics, hand-crafted loom-woven Berber rugs from Morocco; hand-painted and hand-crafted furniture from Southern China, Mongolia and Tibet; as well as Japanese shoji screens, fabrics, kimonos, as well as classic architectural and garden elements. Wrought iron and filigree gazebos (the sort that are used for weddings and outdoor garden parties), are one of this shop’s more unusual specialities.

The best time to visit Red Ramia Trading is, of course, whenever you are hungry so you can combine your shopping trip with sampling some of the delights at Café Fez. Café Fez features Lebanese flat bread, Moroccan tajines (a new addition just in time for winter), house-made dips, kibbeh, stuffed peppers, as well as an astonishing drinks menu contains everything from Turkish coffee and 30 different varieties of tea, to Cointreau, cocktails and a great line-up of local wines.

Myrtleford Butter Factory now making butter again

After a break of several decades, the historic Myrtleford Butter Factory has begun making butter again.

Built in 1935, the historic butter factory building ceased operation in 1966 but was reopened by chef Naomi Ingleton and her mother Bronwyn as a café, restaurant and produce store in 2007 after an extensive renovation, and has attracted praise for its Mediterranean-inspired, regional cuisine and strong permaculture ethos.

While Ingleton has been making her own hand-made, creamy butter for use in the restaurant since opening, customers to the produce store can now buy her delectable (and preserve free) cultured butter and, even better, learn how to make it themselves by booking into one of her new butter and cheese making workshops being held on site. The inaugural workshop in July - where participants were taught how to make European cultured butte, ricotta, mozzarella, brie, camembert and ‘farmhouse’ cheeses - has proved so popular that another workshop is already scheduled for 12 August, with more dates to be posted on the website soon.

For further information:
For great holiday deals to Victoria’s High Country visit http://www.virginblue.com.au/highcountry or call 13 15 16
www.redramia.com.au
www.thebutterfactory.com.au

New offerings for cultural tourists at Federation Square

Federation Square is cementing its reputation as one of Melbourne’s major ‘culture tourism’ precincts with a new public art program, a partnership with the Next Wave Festival, a new gallery space and the announcement of the major international exhibition Dennis Hopper and the New Hollywood coming exclusively to Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) in November.

Next Wave Time Lapse - art larger than life
Art, not advertising, is taking over the big screen at Federation Square, one of Melbourne’s largest and most visible public screens.
Specially commissioned for the Federation Square by Next Wave , Next Wave Time Lapse is an arresting program of newly commissioned screen-based art created by young emerging artists in the lead up to the 2010 Next Wave Festival.
Every Thursday at 5:30pm until May 2010, a new work by one of Australia’s most exciting video and new media artists will launch at Federation Square. Check out the Time Lapse blog (nextwavetimelapse.blogspot.com) for more details.

Dennis Hopper and the New Hollywood (ACMI exhibition)
ACMI will be the exclusive Australian venue for the major international exhibition Dennis Hopper and the New Hollywood (12 November, 2009 - 7 March 2010) showcasing his life’s work, collaborations and personal art collection of ‘New Hollywood’ visionary, actor and auteur, Dennis Hopper. Hopper, whose film work includes Easy Rider (1969), Rebel Without a Cause (1955), Blue Velvet (1986), Apocalypse Now (1978) and the Australian production Mad Dog Morgan (1976, will be coming to Melbourne for the exhibition’s opening in November.

Occupy - Art in Strange Spaces
Occupy is art as you’ve never seen before, and in places you’d least expect to see it. Since 2008, Federation Square, has been inviting artists to transform unlikely public spaces within the square with a series of free interactive artworks and installations. Artworks change at regular intervals throughout the year, with past works including ‘Urban Gifts’ and ‘Throne’ by Clare McCraken, in which two toilet cubicles were decorated in the opulent style of pre-revolutionary France. The next artwork, ‘Posted - It’s what was written!’, opening in September is a collection of 50 letterboxes hand-crafted from ‘discarded objects’ (material collected from the tip, rubbish days and caste offs), with visitors invited to write their own letters for it.

New Gallery - ACGA
The head office of The Australian Commercial Galleries Association (ACGA) - is a newspace located diagonally opposite the Ian Potter Museum: NGV Australia. Opening in April 2009, ACGA was designed specifically with Federation Square’s local, interstate and international visitors in mind. This project is an exciting new initiative in promoting contemporary Australian art, with ACGA members able to showcase some of their most diverse and exciting artists in a an iconic location.

For more information: go to www.fedsquare.com

Media contacts:
Federation Square: Kimberley Polkinghorne, Federation Square Ph: (03) 9655 1911 or email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Next Wave Festival:  Paul Davis, Next Wave Festival on (03) 9329 9422 or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
ACMI: Claire Butler, ACMI on (03) 8663 2415 or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

 

Hot Spots in Melbourne’s West

Melbourne’s inner western suburbs - Footscray, Yarraville, Seddon and Williamstown - can be easily classed as one of the city’s most multicultural areas. With more than 130 nations residing in the area, it is a great opportunity to explore culture and tradition associated with food from countries including Vietnam, Ethiopia, Thailand, Spain, China and Cambodia.

‘Vietnam on a Plate’ tours
For more than 10 years, tour guide Mei Ling, has been conducting walking and tasting tours of the bustling Footscray markets. Be guided through the plethora of vegetable stalls, Asian grocers, butchers and seafood stores with Mei Ling sharing her knowledge on how to use some of the more unusual ingredients. The tours also include tastings, coffee and lunch.

Harembe restaurant (Ethiopian cuisine)
In the heart of Footscary, Harembe offers a traditional Ethiopian experience. Try the national dish doro wot a slow cooked chicken stew with spiced butter and hot peppers with a serving of injera pancake-like bread. Finish your Ethiopian journey with a traditional coffee ceremony.

Katarina Zrinski restaurant (Croatian cuisine)
The Croatian Club in Footscray is home to Katarina Zrinski. With a reputation for serving the best local cuisine outside Croatia, Katarina Zrinski is perfect for a winter’s dinner of hearty Croatian favourites. Try something lesser known such as sarma - cabbage rolls stuffed with a combination of beef, pork and rice served with a spicy sauce. If you’re seeking a unique dining experience Katarina Zrinski is worth a visit.

Hausfrau Bakery and Cakes (German cuisine)
Meaning housewife in German, ‘Hausfra’ is a tribute to the home cook. Walk into Hausfrau and you’ll be greeted by glass cabinets filled with tempting torts, tarts, roulades, strudels and traditional bienenstich, a dense sponge with an almond and honey crust. The savoury palate will also be satisfied at Hausfrau with a range of flans, soups, pies and savoury tarts.

For more information: go to http://www.visitvictoria.com/melbourneswest
Media contact: Susan Wright, Q Strategies (03) 9415 9000, email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

 

RACV’s launches 101 Best Places to Stay in Victoria

RACV is asking Victorians to help discover the top 101 favourite accommodation properties in a new online campaign, RACV’s 101 Best Places to Stay in Victoria, which was launched earlier this month.

The 12 week campaign will be run in partnership with the Herald Sun’s Friday ‘extrago’ section, ‘escape’ in the Sunday Herald Sun, and Tourism Victoria.

Visitors to racv.com.au will be able to nominate and/or vote for their favourite accommodation places, from the most luxurious 5-star retreats to the local caravan park, and keep track of their rankings as the campaign progresses.

The campaign follows RACV’s successful 2008 campaign to find the state’s 101 best tourism experiences with the voting process and publicity providing a boost to many tourism operators

Voting is only one aspect of the campaign - RACV is also inviting members to post online comments which will provide a wealth of independent information to help people decide on the perfect accommodation for their next holiday.

Those who write on the site’s blog about why they have nominated or voted for a particular property can enter the draw to win one of three $1000 travel vouchers*.

The voting will close on October 8 and the final results of the campaign will be published in the Sunday Herald Sun a short time later and will also be available on racv.com.au.

*Full terms and conditions for the competition are available at racv.com.au

For further information: go to www.racv.com.au.
Media contact: Pauline Zahra, Ph: (03) 9790 2717 or email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

 

Regional Accommodation update:

The White House
58 Albert Street, Daylesford

A lovingly renovated 1850s miner’s cottage, The White House is a dream home-away-from-home for design and vintage lovers alike. The three bedroom property was opened in early 2009 by Lyn Gardener, a Melbourne based interior designer, who also runs Empire Vintage in Albert Park.

Gardener (who is also known for the memorable vintage outing tours he runs for Hidden Secrets), has a superb eye for detail and has cleverly combined vintage furnishings, rare collections and artworks which gives The White House a warmth and character completely different to other accommodation in the area.

Each bedroom (there’s two in the house, and a little studio/bedroom in the garden) has its own unique tailored linen, and feather pillows perfect for a peaceful night’s slumber. Move into the lounge and you’ll find a huge open fire, comfortable club-style sofas, one-off cushions hand made from union jack flags and flour bags, industrial and cosy lighting. In the bathroom there is a deep claw-foot bath to sink into. There’s even a library, complete with overstuffed book shelves, 1930s leather club chairs, and hand-painted wallpaper made by UK artist Deborah Bowness.

Eco-Luxe Mount Avoca
Moates Lane, Avoca (Grampians)

Mount Avoca officially opened three new eco lodges in June this year.  They are ituated in a picturesque setting above the vineyard and on the edge of the olive grove and with the Pyrenees Ranges in the background. Each lodge features wall to wall windows, a king-size bed, a self-contained kitchenette and an enormous bathroom with a spa. Architecturally designed, the lodges utilise passive solar heat banks, water tanks, cooling elements and were built using eco-friendly materials such as native Australian Cypress pine cladding. A continental breakfast is supplied.

Altitude Beach House
1 Dollar Drive, Separation Creek (Great Ocean Road)

Just opened in January 2009, Altitude is a stunning architect-designed house situated in the tranquil surroundings of the Otway National Park. Positioned high on a hill in Separation Creek, this modern, beautifully appointed four bedroom home can accommodate up to 12 people. It’s a combination of incredible ocean and coastal views of the Great Ocean Road and modern luxuries and conveniences, making it the perfect retreat for city folk wishing to unwind in comfort. Facilities include: three bathrooms, two outdoor decks (including one suspended eight metres above the ground), barbecue, state-of-the-art kitchen and home appliances (including two TVs with DVD, Foxtel and integrated surround sound system), a children’s retreat and rumpus room. For those wishing to get out and explore the area, Altitude is perfectly located with bush walking tracks practically on the doorstep, surf beaches within sight, and the famous Wye River Pub just a short stroll away.

Seahaven Village, 1-7 Geelong Rd
Barwon Heads (Great Ocean Road)

For those looking for an environmentally sustainable and luxurious apartment-style accommodation on the Great Ocean Road, Seahaven Village fits the bill perfectly. Seahaven is the only Green Star accredited accommodation in the area, with most of its 4.5 star one and two bedroom units boasting a five or six star energy rating. Superbly located with a park outlook and easy walking distance from the esplanade and local shops and restaurants, facilities in Seahaven’s apartments and cottages include: fully equipped kitchens, wi-fi access, log fire (with wood supplied), home entertainment system, washing machine, luxury linen, breakfast provisions, reverse cycle air-conditioning and spa baths in most cottages.  Special packages are currently available until mid September including a ‘Gourmet Weekend Package’ for $465 per couple which includes: two nights accommodation in a Spa Cottage (or 4.5 star one bedroom Spa suite); a $25 meal voucher redeemable at local eateries; breakfast provisions including sourdough bread from Starfish Bakery and local free range eggs; and late departure (up to 2pm on Sunday). 

‘Pure Paradise’, Aaah!
Willandra Houseboats (Mildura)

Luxury houseboat operator, Aaah! Willandra, have a new addition to their fleet of big houseboats - ‘Pure Paradise’. A 10-12 berth boat with five bedrooms, and five ensuites, Pure Paradise is a luxury-lodge on the water.  There’s also a chef’s kitchen with coffee maker and wine fridge, huge TV screen in the lounge and great rear swim deck as well as a 10 person heated rooftop spa.  It also features top deck steering, a barbecue on the top and bottom decks, a TV in every bedroom, floor heating in the bathrooms and split system reverse cycle air conditioning.

Gracedale B & B
619 Healesville Kooweerup Road
Healesville

A stunning new architect designed home which opened in January 2009. See ‘New offerings in the Yarra Valley’ story in this issue of Pieces of Victioria. for more information.

For more information:
www.mountavoca.com
www.altitudebeachhouse.com.au
www.thewhitehousedaylesford.com.au
www.gracedaleyarravalley.com.au
www.willandrahouseboats.com.au

Hot Deals

Peppers Springs Retreat & Spa winter degustation dinner package

Arrive to a winter wonderland at Peppers Springs Retreat & Spa (Hepburn Springs) surrounded by romance, open fires and relaxed walks through the nearby forest. Surprise someone special with a couple of days off midweek just to relax and catch up. Chef Clinton Camilleri has designed a 5 course degustation dinner in the hotel’s restaurant, DECO, to celebrate all things winter; pears, persimmons, carrots, parsnips, potatoes and silverbeet. Start off the relaxing package with one of their many treatments at the Mineral Spa and truly unwind with the help of this mid-week special.

$370 per person -

• Two nights mid week accommodation in a traditional room
• Cooked hot breakfast daily
• 5 course chef-selection degustation dinner in DECO one evening
• 60 minute Retreat Access Pass to the multi award winning Mineral Spa on one day

Valid to 30 September 2009. Terms and conditions - available mid-week only through July/August 2009 in a traditional room (not for public holidays or long weekends). Mention winter degustation package when booking. Menu produce is subject to availability and booking conditions apply.

For bookings or more information call (03) 5348 2202 or visit http://www.peppers.com.au/springs

Explore Melbourne’s art and culture with the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces accommodation packages

Qantas Holidays are offering a range of great accommodation/ticket packages around the 2009 Melbourne Winter Masterpieces exhibitions Salvador Dali: Liquid Desire (NGV International) and A Day in Pompeii (Melbourne Museum). Stay at one of Melbourne’s top hotels and see more than 200 stunning works by Salvador Dalí or learn the story of A Day in Pompeii through such ancient artefacts as sculptures, jewellery and delicate frescoes, all with the help of Qantas Holidays.

A Day in Pompeii package

• 1 night at The Swanston Hotel Melbourne Grand Mercure
• A Day in Pompeii ticket

From $135* per person twin share

Salvador Dali: Liquid Desire

• 1 night at the Mercure Melbourne on Spring Street
• Salvador Dali: Liquid Desire

From $108* per person twin share

Combined Melbourne Winter Masterpieces Package

• 2 nights at the Sofitel Melbourne on Collins
• Salvador Dali: Liquid Desire ticket and A Day in Pompeii ticket

From $381* per person twin share

For more information or to make a booking visit http://www.qantas.com.au/content/dyn/holidays/specials/melbourne-winter-masterpieces. Valid for Travel until 25 October 2009. Offer ends 24 September 2009, unless sold out prior. Deal excludes Qantas flights.  Terms and Conditions Apply.

For more information call Qantas holidays on 1300 HOLIDAY

September 2009 events

Melbourne

Opening in September:

Melbourne Spring Fashion Week, 1 - 6 September
Melbourne Spring Fashion Week (MSFW) takes over the city with fashion.  Highlights include: the breathtaking evening parades staged at the Melbourne Town Hall from Tuesday to Thursday; daytime catwalk displays; VIP salon shows; exhibitions; and panel discussions. The party mood continues at the MSFW after-parties at some of the city’s hottest bars and nightspots.
For more information: http://www.thatsmelbourne.com.au or http://www.msfw.com.au

Focus on Footy Portrait Exhibition, Crown Casino (4 September - 5 October)
Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard, Premier John Brumby, Nathan Buckley, Leigh Matthews, Kevin Sheedy,  Brendan Fevola, Luke Hodge, music guru Ian ‘Molly’ Meldrum and actor David Wenham are just a few of the familiar faces that will appear on display in a revealing exhibit called Focus on Footy. This photographic exhibition celebrating Australia’s premiere spectator sport is display at Crown’s newly refurbished West End precinct, and presents an extraordinary and exclusive set of Vanity Fair style portraits of people who have contributed in some way to the games greatness; from fans, well know Australians and officials to legendary AFL players past and present, even umpires.
For more information: http://www.crowncasino.com.au
Media contact: Daniel Humphreys, Crown Melbourne, Ph: (03) 9292 7771 or email:  .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

The Royal Melbourne Show, 17 - 27 September
Springtime in Melbourne is show time, and this year Victoria’s largest public event - the Royal Melbourne Show - celebrates its 154th year. Showcasing agricultural and rural excellence, the Melbourne Showgrounds are transformed into an 11-day celebration bringing country and city together. Wood chopping, sheep shearing, milking and blacksmith displays are just some of the highlights for the show-going public. It’s the place to see prize-winning horses, sheep, goats, cattle, alpacas and chooks, just a stone’s throw away from the CBD.  There is also the largest dog show in the Southern Hemisphere with more than 4,500 canine entrants.
For more information: Ph: (03) 9281 7444 or http://www.royalshow.com.au

Melbourne Fringe Festival, 23 September - 11 October
The Melbourne Fringe Festival spices up the city’s cultural calendar with an entertaining program of groundbreaking and daring performances ranging across all art forms. The festival will flourish as a score of vibrant artists showcase their talents with more than 230 fresh acts in more than 100 venues across the city.  From comedians to cabaret, the festival will transform the cityscape, including Federation Square. The North Melbourne Town Hall will also house the ever-popular Festival Club which boasts a different star-studded entertainment line-up every night and is guaranteed to push the boundaries of the imagination. Some of the Fringe events are free, with the average price for shows around $15.
For more information: Ph: (03) 9660 9600 or http://www.melbournefringe.com.au
Media contact: Michelle Buxton on (03) 9537 7155 or email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

2009 Toyota AFL Grand Final, 26 September
The 2009 Toyota AFL Grand Final Week will be filled with free activities for football and non-football fans alike. Federation Square will come alive for the entire week in anticipation of the AFL Grand Final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Saturday 26 September, the biggest match of the year.
For more information:  http://www.afl.com.au

2009 Darebin Music Feast, 5-20 September
The Darebin Music Feast is a festival dedicated to song-writing and community music, that celebrates the musical diversity of one of Melbourne’s most thriving musical communities - the city of Darebin in Melbourne’s inner North. The 2009 program delivers a slice of the cultural music pie with over 1500 performers playing in over 25 venues and cosy hidey-holes across Northcote, Preston, Thornbury, Reservoir, Bundoora and Fairfield. Program highlights include Tripod, Yana Alana and Kutcha Edwards & Lou Bennett. Plus don’t miss the action at ‘High Vibes’, a day of music and celebration at numerous venues along High Street, Northcote - now considered one of the key hubs in Melbourne’s acclaimed live music scene.
For more information: visit http://www.darebin.vic.gov.au/dmf or call (03) 8470 8888. Media contact: Michelle Buxton on (03) 9537 7155 or email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Also in September

Craft Cubed, 1 August - 12 September
Craft Victoria presents Craft Cubed a new annual festival to promote experimental, skilled and ideas-based craft and design. The exhibition at Craft Victoria, 31 Flinders Lane, Melbourne, will consist of three elements: White Box, a showcase of 50 international design projects; Perspective, an exhibition of 50 new works by Craft Victoria’s Professional Members; and Programs, workshops to provide professional development opportunities.
For more information: http://www.craftvic.asn.au
Media contact: Amy Brand Ph: (03) 9650 7775

Terry Brooks: New Paintings, Flinders Lane Gallery, 18 August - 5 September, 2009
Returning from her recent show at Germany’s Neubrandenburg Museum, abstract painter Terri Brooks’ latest exhibition further explores her formalist interest in the makeshift and everyday. Inspired by the weathered textures of the inner city environment - flaking paint, rusted metal, cracked and marked concrete - Brooks’ paintings discuss the physical nature of a site, its cycles of disintegration and renewal.
For more information: http://www.flg.com.au

Chicago - the Musical, Her Majesty’s Theatre from 15 August
After a decade of decadence Chicago will return to Melbourne for a strictly limited season at Her Majesty’s Theatre from 15 August 2009.  With an all-star Australian cast including Caroline O’Connor, (Velma Kelly), Sharon Millerchip (Roxie Hart), Gina Riley (Matron ‘Mama’ Morton) and Craig McLachlan (Billy Flynn), Chicago tells the tale of Roxie Hart, a nightclub dancer who dreams of headlining in Vaudeville, kills her lover, then convinces her husband to come up with the $5000 to hire Chicago’s shrewdest, smooth-talking lawyer Billy Flynn. Chicago has been honoured with six Tony Awards®, two Olivier Awards, a Grammy® Award and thousands of standing ovations. 
For more information: http://www.ticketek.com.au
Media contact: Howie and Taylor Publicity on (03) 9654 3431

Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination, 4 June - 3 November
Could cars that hover above the ground become the mass transport of the future? Will we ever have droids like C-3PO in real life? Fantasy and reality join forces in Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination. This is the first exhibition to showcase more than 80 costumes, models and props from all six Star Wars films. Enjoy this innovative exhibition at Scienceworks in Spotswood.
For more information: http://www.museumvictoria.com.au/starwars

Melbourne Winter Masterpieces - Salvador Dali: Liquid Desire, 13 June - 4 October
Salvador Dalí: Liquid Desire is the first comprehensive retrospective of the work of Salvador Dalí ever staged in Australia. The exhibition is drawn from the holdings of the two largest collections of Dalí in the world - the Fundació Gala-Salvador Dalí in Figueres, Spain and the Salvador Dalí Museum in St Petersburg, Florida. A full retrospective, the exhibition will comprise more than 200 works in all media - painting, drawing, watercolour, etchings, sculpture, fashion, jewellery, cinema and photography. Check it out at NGV International, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne
For more information:  03 8620 2222 or http://www.ngv.vic.gov.au
Media contact: Erin Reeve, NGV on (03) 8620 2345 or email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Melbourne Winter Masterpieces - A Day in Pompeii, 26 June - 25 October
Melbourne Museum has secured the exclusive Australian rights to show the exhibition A Day in Pompeii featuring exquisitely preserved artefacts from the archaeological collection of the Soprintendenza Archeologica di Pompei. The exhibition is presented as part of the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces series. The exhibition tells the fateful and intriguing story of the eruption of Mt Vesuvius on 24 August, 79AD. The exhibition features exceptional objects that lay buried in Pompeii’s ruins for over 17 centuries.  Included are room-size frescoes, marble and bronze sculptures and everyday household items - all of which evoke the richness and culture of daily life in the Roman Empire’s favourite vacation resort. Admission fees apply.
For more information:  http://www.museumvictoria.com.au
Media contacts: Jessica Bendell on (03) 8341 7726 or email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Jersey Boys, Princess Theatre, Melbourne, from 4 July
“Too good to be true” raved the New York Post about Jersey Boys, the 2006 Tony Award winning Best Musical about the rock ‘n roll group - The Four Seasons. This is the story of how four blue-collar kids, including lead singer Frankie Valli, became one of pop music’s great success stories. They wrote their own songs, invented a new sound and sold 175 million records world-wide - all before they were 30.
For more information: http://www.jerseyboysaustralia.com.au
Media Contact: Howie and Taylor Publicity on (03) 9654 3431.

Mix It Up, the Arts Centre, throughout winter 2009
The Arts Centre’s Mix It Up celebrates the cultural diversity of Victoria through music, dance and theatre from around the world. Held over several months at the Arts Centre, Mix It Up captures the best international and local artists in a series of free and ticketed events. 
For more information: http://www.theartscentre.net.au

2009 Clemenger Contemporary Art Award, The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, 17 September 2009 - 7 February 2010
The Clemenger Contemporary Art Award is a triennial exhibition and award that celebrates the ongoing achievement of some of Australia’s most distinguished contemporary artists, and has a well-deserved reputation as one of the most prestigious and exciting visual arts events in Australia. National in scope, cross-generational, and bringing into dialogue the works of Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australian artists, this year’s exhibition will draw together a group of established artists whose work is conceptually and stylistically diverse, yet unified in its engagement with some of the prevailing cultural and social issues of contemporary life.
For more information:  Ph: (03) 8620 2222 or http://www.ngv.vic.gov.au
Media contact: Erin Reeve, NGV on (03) 8620 2345 or email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Regional Victoria

Opening in September:

A Changing Land: Devilbend 2009, Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery, 2 September - 11 October
13 artists from diverse backgrounds consider sustainability, climate change, protection of species, land ownership and responsibility in relation to the Devilbend Reserve. Until recently the Reserve was one of the main water catchment areas for the Mornington Peninsula and long before that an important meeting place for the Bunurong people. At present, with strong community involvement, debate continues about its potential for the future. The exhibition will result in new work by both established and emerging artists in a variety of mediums and approaches.
For more information: Ph: (03) 5975 4395 or go to mprg.mornpen.vic.gov.au

Leongatha Daffodil Festival, 3 September - 5 September
The Leongatha Daffodil Festival is held annually at the Leongatha Memorial Hall. Showcasing a large array of daffodils and cut flower displays, the event marks the beginning of spring in colourful country style.  The event also incorporates a number of open garden displays on Friday & Saturday between 10am - 4pm.
For more information: Prom Country Visitor Information Centre Ph: 1800 630 704 or go to http://www.visitpromcountry.com.au

Kyneton Daffodil and Arts Festival, 3 - 13 September
Starting on the first weekend of September and the beginning of spring festival highlights include a daffodil flower show, open gardens scheme, old time ball, grand parade, antique fair and arts show, and festival of one act plays. There are concerts and live music to enjoy, a fun run and ferret racing as well as a new Alpaca Fiesta. The festival concludes with a street parade and fair in High Street. These events will be held in various venues around Kyneton. 
For more information: 03 5422 2282 or http://www.kynetondaffodilarts.org.au

Grampians - Classics in Wartook Valley, 4 - 6 September
Classics in Wartook Valley is a three-day festival celebrating all things ‘classic’. Highlights include classic Australian cinema, vintage cars, live performances by internationally renowned string trip Accord and an art exhibition.
For more information: http://www.classicsinwartook.com.au

Winter Weekends in Port Fairy, 4 - 6 September
September concludes the 2009 series of Winter Weekends in Port Fairy with the Ex-Libris Book Fair. Ex-Libris is a celebration of literature inspired by Welsh bookshop village of Hay on Wye. The weekend’s activities include thousands of books on sale and literary events happening around the historic town.
For more information: http://www.portfairywinterweekends.com.au

Ballarat International Foto Biennale, 4 September - 4 October
A month long celebration of photography and photographic art, the Ballarat International Foto Biennale will present an exciting and eclectic range of the best photography from Australia and the world. The vast program of events includes a Core Exhibition Program, Fringe Exhibition Program and Educational Program.
For more information: http://www.ballaratfoto.org

Spring Sessions in the Park, Hotham, 12-13 September
Head up to Hotham this spring and get on board for the Hotham Spring Sessions in the Park. It’s a Slopestyle Jam on the Summit Terrain Park with local legend DJ Eddy playing some retro tunes and a BBQ for all to enjoy! Join in for some fun in the sun.
For more information: http://www.hotham.com.au
Media contact: Gina Woodward, Ph: (03) 5759 4464 or email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Taste Ballarat Wine and Food Expo, Ballarat Showgrounds, 13 September
A new event showcasing the wonderful array of gourmet food and wine from the Goldfields and central Victoria. Following on from the renowned Ballarat Wine Show, the Taste Ballarat Wine and Food Expo will feature more than 50 exhibitors offering samples, tastings and sales including a broad selection of award winning wines, fudge and sweet treats, baked goods, olives, oils and preserves, sauces, relishes, a selection of cheeses and gourmet meats.
For more information: Ballarat Visitor Centre Ph: 1800 44 66 33

Tesselaar Tulip Festival, Silvan, 16 September - 13 October
Welcome spring at a European-style celebration that features fields of colourful tulips, blooming daffodils and freesias, along with traditional Dutch food and music. Located in Silvan, the festival opens from 10am to 5pm seven days a week. Entry costs $16 for adults, $12 for concession and children under 16 years of age are admitted free. Groups of 10 or more tickets cost $12 per person.
For more information:  Ph: (03) 9737 7777 or go to http://www.tulipfestival.com.au

Splash & Dash for Cash, Mt Buller, 18-19 September
Think of all the madness of the Moomba Waterfest - but on snow! Teams make a moving vessel that hurtles them down the slope to make a mighty splash on the Saturday and then madcap races take place as we dash, dash, dash for the cash. Colourful and crazy it’s a great way to celebrate spring skiing at Mt Buller.
For more information: http://www.mtbuller.com.au
Media contact: Rhylla Morgan Ph: (03) 5777 7822 or email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

2009 Mildura Country Music Festival, 25 September - 4 October
The annual Mildura Country Music Festival is Australia’s biggest showcase of independent entertainers with more than 100 country music artists including a mix of perennial Mildura favourites, award-winners, hit-makers and many rising country music stars.  The festival offers music lovers more than 800 hours of free entertainment and is held in more than 20 venues across Mildura and surrounds. The diamond in the crown will be the live concert and radio presentation of the Southern Stars, the Australian Independent Country Music Awards, which recognise the achievements of the independent recording artists during the past year.
For more information:  call 1800 039 043 or go to http://www.milduracountrymusic.com.au

Antique Appraisals and Open Day, Rupertswood Mansion (Sunbury) - 27 September
Bring your antiques and have then evaluated by expert valuers from auction houses Leonard Joel, Amanda Addams Auctions, and Michael Eastick Associates. Among the valuers will include experts in areas of arts and antiques, books, auto and general, jewellery, coins and stamps. While there explore “Rupertswood”, a 50 room Italianate mansion built in 1874-76 and famous for being the birthplace of the Ashes. Extensively restored, it now operates as a boutique hotel, replicating the experience you would find in the great houses of England, with its own butlers, doormen and a high level of service and food. Ticket price includes admission and one valuation. Lunch and light entertainment is available in the Rupertswood drawing room.
For further information: call Rupertswood Mansion, Ph: (03) 9740 5020
Media contact: Ken Farrow Ph: 0417 630 802

Also in September

Arthur Guy Memorial Painting Prize Exhibition, Bendigo Art Gallery, 9 August - 27 September
39 finalists including Archibald winner Vincent Fantauzzo will be showcased in Australia’s richest open painting prize, the Arthur Guy Memorial Painting Prize at Bendigo Art Gallery. Offering one artist a cash prize of $50,000 for the most outstanding work (as selected by a panel of the art royalty judges) the prize offers an unprecedented opportunity to view some of the most interesting paintings being produced in Australia.  $50,000 winner will be announced on 8 August 2009
For more information: Bendigo Art Gallery Ph: (03) 5434 6088
Media Information: Sharon Wells, Ph: (03) 9417 4665 or 0419 508 619

Spring Migration Festival, High Country, 28 August - 6 September
Join in the fun of Yackandandah’s annual gay and lesbian festival when locals and visitors from all over Australia get tother to have fun during the nine day event. The first three days will be hosted at Falls Creek. The get together then moves to the Victorian/NSW border town of Albury, Beechworth and ends in Yackandandah.
For more information: Ph: (02) 6027 1114 or http://www.springmigration.com.au

Tour of the Murray River, 30 August - 6 September
The Tour of the Murray River Road Cycling Classic displays the Murray River in all its visual splendour and provides an incredibly tough challenge for the riders, it attracts up to 100 internationally-rated professional cyclists from all Australians states and some from overseas. The tour will start in Echuca and conclude eight days later with a riverfront kermesse in Mildura. This tour forms part of Cycling Australia’s National Teams Cycling Series and is also part of the Scody Cup Cycling Series.
For more information: go to http://www.caribou.net.au/tour_of_murray.html
Media contact: John Craven Ph: (03) 5224 2466

© 2012 Tourism Victoria