A swag of cultural offerings in Melbourne this winter
Melbourne has long cemented itself as Australia’s arts and culture capital and 2009 is no exception with some blockbusters visiting the city during winter.
To kick off the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces series, a full retrospective exhibition of the remarkable Spanish artist, Salvador Dali will open at the National Gallery on 13 June titled Salvador Dali: Liquid Desire.
The tragedy of ancient Pompeii will come to life at the Melbourne Museum while it hosts the next stunning Melbourne Winter Masterpiece exhibition titled A Day in Pompeii from June 26.
With record crowds attending blockbuster Wicked in the past 12 months, Melbourne will premiere two new multi-award winning smash hit theatre productions this winter.
Jersey Boys – The story of Frankie Valley and the Four Seasons will open at the magnificent Princess Theatre on July 4 and Avenue Q opens at Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre on June 4.
Federation Square will host its third year of the Light in Winter program. From June 4, the square will be transformed with 14 cutting-edge light-inspired installations
After sunset, an office block at the corner of Bourke and Swanston streets tranforms into an artist’s canvas to reveal Maxims of Behaviour, a kinetic light work created by Alexander Knox and the Docklands will put on a spectacular display of fire and light on the water for Ignite@Docklands from June 20.
For all Star Wars fans, a trip to Scienceworks during winter is a must when the Spotswood venue opens Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination from June 3.
Festival activity abounds with events promoting creativity and inspiration across the city. From July 15, the State of Design Festival begins and in July the iconic Melbourne International Film Festival will screen a feast of cinematic delicacies from more than 50 countries over 17 days.
There’s plenty to keep you busy in Melbourne this winter so pull on your coat and get out there.
New Melbourne Hot Spots
Melbourne welcomes Hilton Melbourne South Wharf, InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto and Brown and Do
There is no denying that Melbourne’s restaurant and bar scene is one of the city’s major drawcards. From the culturally infused and palate teasing Brown and Do Café to the sophisticated hotel dining spotted across the city.
The glitz and sophistication of internationally renowned hotel dining has established a solid name in the city precinct. Both Hilton Melbourne South Wharf and Intercontinental Melbourne The Rialto have benchmarked themselves as leading and reputable restaurants where food is of an upmost quality and dining is an exceptional experience.
Hilton Melbourne South Wharf, 2 Convention Centre Place, South Wharf (03) 9027 2000
The city’s new South Wharf district is set to stir the social hub of the South Wharf precinct, attracting food-lovers and pleasure-seekers with the new edition of Hilton Melbourne South Wharf, opened in April 2009.
With an internationally renowned master chef from Spain and a distinguished wine expert - sharing an astounding four Michelin stars between them - the Hilton is sure to bring an exciting fusion of authentic Catalan flavours to Melbourne’s restaurant scene.
Located in the heart of Hilton Melbourne South Wharf’s entrance, Caffé Cino is the casual yet stylish café where patrons can enjoy a deliciously fresh and hearty breakfast or lunch.
Sotano wine and tapas bar promises vibrant, Barcelona-style dining. Fresh produce is laid out before diners, including a spectacular 4.4 metre high charcuterie tower displaying an array of tantalising cured meats and cheeses as a working part of the bar with dishes prepared in front of guests. The vibrant atmosphere will be fuelled by an arresting wine gantry that seems to float above the room. Suspended from the seven metre high ceiling and housing 2500 bottles of wine – the gantry is one of the hotel’s many striking features. Relax in the evening alfresco-style overlooking Melbourne’s picturesque city skyline while enjoying a cocktail.
Nuevo 37 will rival some of Melbourne’s finest establishments with its interpretation of contemporary food. Guests are able to witness the theatre of food preparation as dishes are prepared at a free-standing, open kitchen. Sophisticatedly designed and framed by untreated wooden logs across the ceiling, the setting offers stylish modern contrasts in a chic and classy atmosphere.
InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto, 495 Collins Street, Melbourne (03) 9620 9111
After the resurrection of one of Melbourne’s grandest heritage hotels, the iconic InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto has marked its reputation as being one of the city’s leading food mecca’s with its collection of casual, formal and event dining options for guests and patrons.
The revitalised hotel, furnished with an exciting and contemporary design, encapsulates the iconic aspects of Melbourne’s unique history and cosmopolitan culture.
The Rialto’s executive chef, Nick Reade, has benchmarked the hotel’s culinary identity through interpretations of fluid food trends and ingredients from around the world.
The hotel has a newly developed 200km concept. While international flavours and produce will be sourced for some dishes, Reade will also offer signature dishes made entirely from ingredients that are grown or produced from within a 200km radius of the hotel.
The Rialto team now have a comprehensive understanding of the food in the hotel's neighbourhood and are working with local farmers and growers to ensure the best and freshest produce on the plate.
The hotel’s dining options include; Market Lane Bar – an elegant and sophisticated venue, with more than 100 martinis including a special selection featuring indigenous ingredients.
Rialto Bluestone is fashioned on the classic wine bar concept, offering Victorian and Australian wines in various major and boutique labels.
Alluvial Restaurant is striking to the eye with its intimate mosaic interior. The menu is modern Australian inspired by ingredients and styles from around the world, predominantly Europe and Asian, and premium, hard-to-find Victorian produce.
Brown and Do, 166 Bridport Street, Albert Park (03) 9699 8969
Brown and Do is the newest restaurant to hit the bayside suburb of Albert Park and legendary restaurateur and baker, Greg Brown is sure to shake up the local dining scene with this new addition.
Once considered as an eruptive perfectionist in the kitchen while running a highly successful chain of bakeries - Brown has rebounded onto the restaurant scene following several years out of action and has teamed up with Theo Do.
Brown is considered the creative director while Do is the hands behind the inspiration. Brown tastes, instructs, supervises and plans the menu. The food provides diners with an interesting mix of French and Vietnamese fusion. Vietnamese trimmings in the restaurant interior add an acknowledging and sentimental meaning to the Parisian-inspired bistro.
Brown and Do is a food-lovers experience. From the freshly baked and buttery light brioches to the diablo of lobster and scallop with leeks, lobster oil and mustard – whatever is ordered, Brown and Do is set to offer an exquisite food experience.
Fire up your tastebuds with these new regional eateries
Head to Room Six in Port Campbell
The Great Ocean Road has plenty of gastronomic highlights, but one hidden treasure that is relatively new on the scene in Port Campbell, is the funky eatery Room Six.
The restaurant is situated in Lord Street, Port Campbell’s main drag and is run by chef couple Tanya Zoch and Jim Sfakinos who have formed a partnership with cooking styles that couldn’t be more different.
Tanya’s speciality is Japanese cuisine, and after more than 10 years in Japan, she has some serious credentials under her belt. Jim on the other hand prepares Mediterranean fare to die for. Combined, the couple turn out mouth-watering meals using quality ingredients in what they call Mediterasian cuisine.
Room Six offers casual dining at its best in Port Campbell with affordable prices and an extensive menu from homemade dips to Saganaki made with local seafood and some quality wine to choose from. The venue can cater for groups as big as 100 and the staff are knowledgeable and friendly. So next time your driving the Great Ocean Road be sure to stop at Room Six, they are open from 10am to 10pm seven days.
For more information: Phone 03 5598 6242 or Email: roomsix@bigpond.com
Wye Beach Hotel
Perched on top of a hill on the Great Ocean Road, the Wye Beach Hotel, is a popular holiday pub with amazing views and a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. The menu includes a number of exotic dishes as well as the ever popular parma and fish and chips.
Try the tasty bar snacks or ‘Gajacks’ with one of the standout being ‘piments farcis’ – long green chilli fingers stuffed with tuna and fried with chickpea batter. These are a few of the much-loved bar snacks from Mauritius the resident chef, Roddy Sooprayachetty, created to spice up the menu.
There are plenty of other popular items including hapuka fish cured with ginger and white wine vinegar and topped with mustard seeds, pickled onions and curry leaves.
The hotel boasts a long and exciting wine list selected to perfectly match the creative offerings from the kitchen. Paul Green and his sister Carolyn have run the Wye Beach Hotel for more than three years and in that time have built a reputation as an exciting eatery as well as a great local which is ideal for a memorable meal or just a cold beer sipped while admiring the superb ocean view.
For more information: call Paul Greene on 03 5289 0240 or go to www.wyebeachhotel.com.au
Geelong’s Base Eatery
New waterfront establishment Base Eatery, located at 6 – 8 Eastern Beach Road in Geelong, has developed an innovative concept to ensure they utilise the best in fresh, local produce. It’s called the Urban Harvest and it’s all about community involvement.
Owner Lea Priest explains there are many talented gardeners in the Geelong region. People who are passionate about growing produce of the highest quality.
“They don’t grow it for commercial reasons; they grow it because they like to eat quality food. Often the fruits of their labour are so plentiful, they are left with more produce than they could ever hope to eat, pickle or preserve,” said Priest.
“That’s where we come in, if the community grows it, we want to cook with it. We want to create food on our menus the whole community can be proud of.”
Base Eatery opened on Boxing Day 2008. The offer is constantly being evaluated and as part of this process an exciting express lunch offer was recently launched. There are more developments on the way too, with the upcoming launch of the new alfresco area including take away coffee served right on the footpath.
Base Eatery is inviting anyone with excess fruit, veg or herbs to contact them. They will buy selected produce at market value.
For more information: call 5221 5339 or go to www.baseeatery.com.au
The Larder – fromagerie and provisions
Beechworth’s reputation as a gourmet travel destination has been further enhanced with Natasha Davis’ fromagerie, Larder, which is located in Camp Street opposite the Beechworth Bakery. A lifelong passion for great food led Davis to Beechworth where she opened Larder late last year. Her mission is to sell the best international and regional speciality cheeses.
Cheese lovers can taste some of the delicious varieties including French Roquefort, Rouzaire Brie aux truffles, La Mancha Manchego, Piano Hill Ironstone and sweet hand stretched, buffalo Mozzarella from Shaw River.
Davis also sells provisions for impromptu picnics or special occasions. Her store offers complimentary hire of wicker baskets packed with mouth-watering terrines, pates, locally smoked trout and small goods as well as Lescure French butter to slather on Laurent Bakery baguettes.
For more information: call Natasha Davis on 03 5728 2299
‘Provincial Pantry’ tasty new online virtual market
North East Valleys of Victoria, home to some of Australia's finest gourmet producers and internationally recognised winemakers, has launched a ‘virtual market’ online. You can it by find by visiting the North East Valleys website and following the link to Provincial Pantry.
Shoppers can browse the virtual shelves for a special bottle of wine, boutique beer, jar of olives or chestnut jam.
The Provincial Pantry has been created through the collaborative efforts of North East Valleys Food & Wine, Hume Murray Food Bowl & Australian Alpine Valleys Agribusiness Forum and supported by Regional Development Victoria.
The High Country includes the renowned food & wine regions of Rutherglen, Beechworth, Glenrowan, The Milawa Gourmet Region, King Valley, Myrtleford, Bright, the Alpine Valley and the Kiewa Valley.
For more information: call Kristy Taylor, Chair – North East Valleys Food & Wine, 0419 540 989
Hidden Secrets Someliers City Walk
There are so many great restaurants in Melbourne, and when you don’t have much time, why not visit a few in one evening? With clusters of amazing venues within walking distance, Hidden Secrets have devised a great way to see them without making it a pub crawl.
Three venues, exclusive wine tastings and a few passionate sommeliers are available to share their favourite drops.
Indulge in a flight of wine, and a flight of food to match in each venue. Perhaps not a standard sit down dinner, but divine seasonal dishes are included to best enhance the wine choices.
Venues will vary each week, and private group bookings are possible for Mondays or Wednesdays – each tour has a maximum of 8.
For further information: www.hiddensecretstours.com
Media Contact: Fiona Sweetman, Fiona@hiddensecretstours.com, (03) 9329 9665
Daylesford Product Update
Some interesting products in the Daylesford and Hepburn Springs region this month include horse riding adventures and two unusual accommodation providers.
Hepburn Lagoon Rides
Hepburn Lagoon Rides, located among the beautiful hills of Mt Prospect, offers a range of memorable horse riding experiences. Located 10 minutes from Daylesford, on the Midland Highway, Hepburn Lagoon Rides accommodates beginners and more experienced riders. Each rider is matched with a horse to suit their skill level. After the ride relax with a refreshment by the open fire in the Tack Room and chat to fellow riders. Horse rides can be arranged for adults and children, couples, families or groups of friends. Hepburn Lagoon Rides operate daily with a stable of 30 horses.
For more information: go to http://www.hepburnlagoonrides.com.au
65 Main
65 Main is a big white friendly house located in the heart of Hepburn Springs. The property is known to provide “TLC” and host Christine Lewis is passionate about food, wine and relaxation. The friendly and knowledgeable crew can advise visitors how to truly experience the Spa Country whether it is wining, dining, enjoying a spa treatment or having a leisurely walk. The vibrant contemporary B&B and its central location means guests can easily walk to cafes, restaurants, pubs, day spas, mineral springs, live music venues and more. Local knowledge is the key to the experience guests can enjoy while staying in the region. There are five guest rooms at 65 Main making it suitable for singles, couples and groups of up to 12 people. There are also ‘VIP Escapes’ and ‘Midweek Packages’ tailored to suit all budgets.
For more information: go to http://www.65main.com
Blue Cliffs Retreat
Surrounded by the Wombat State Forest and near Hepburn Springs, Blue Cliffs Retreat is a truly romantic property. This is the place where holiday makers can enjoy peace, quiet and a little indulgence. The beautiful retreat is set on 25 acres of natural bush with its own lake and is five minutes drive from restaurants, galleries, markets, shops and spa resort in Hepburn Springs. Inspired by the day beds of Bali, the romance of Out of Africa and the cool elegance of plantation homes where life is serene and the pace is slower. All seven stylishly designed accommodation choices at Blue Cliffs Retreat carry through these themes and include spa baths, saunas, wood fireplaces, beautiful views from every window and exquisite beds with romantic canopies.
For more information: go to http://www.bluecliffsretreat.com/
Dine and Bathe under the stars: Peninsula Hot Springs
Laze around in the natural hot mineral spring pools and enjoy an evening of fine dining as you spend a relaxing and rejuvenating night at Peninsula Hot Springs.
Dine and Bathe – the newest dining concept to hit the Mornington Peninsula – provides patrons with a unique epicurean experience. Before and after a delicious meal and glass of wine, enjoy the pure bliss of lounging under the stars in the natural thermal pools.
Friday and Saturday nights from 6pm to 9pm are set aside for a dinner set menu of three options. Dedicate the night to sampling fresh and delicious food, including ingredients from local operators, and treat yourself to the natural healing pleasures of Victoria's first natural hot mineral springs.
Weekend always booked up? Then try the relaxing ‘Pasta and Bathe’ Tuesday night and a light dining option all other nights of the week.
For further information: go to www.peninsulahotsprings.com Media contact: Charles Davidson, 0409 889 920 or email charles@peninsulahotsprings.com
Ski update – May 2009
With a bumper season forecast for 2009, Victoria’s five major ski resorts of Mt Hotham, Falls Creek, Mt Baw Baw, Mt Buller and Lake Mountain are gearing up for a busy winter period and will be open for the snow season from 6 June.
While Lake Mountain was affected by the recent bushfires, the resort has bounced back and is encouraging visitors to return to the region during the snow season. The winter period will play a vital role in the recovery process for Lake Mountain and will provide much needed support for local businesses.
The main visitor centre which houses the ski hire, ski school, bistro, day shelter and resort administration was untouched and a range of initiatives are currently in place to ensure the resort is ready for the snow season. This includes the addition of new snowgrooming machines, snowmobiles and snowmaking machines to its existing facilities increasing the resorts snowmaking abilities.
Meanwhile, at Falls Creek there is plenty happening with the final stages of the St Falls development due to open in time for the 2009 season. Located at the base of the Express Chairlift, this multi-million dollar development will be the focal point of the village boasting restaurants and bars, a gymnasium, crèche, supermarket and the brand-new Quay West Resort & Spa Falls Creek.
Opening on 5 June, this luxurious 5-star property will be Australia’s first drive-in, drive-out, ski-in, ski-out alpine resort and spa with a range of one, two, three and four bedroom apartments and penthouses on offer. After a day on the slopes, guests can relax with a treatment in the award winning Mii Spa or enjoy a soak in the Turkish bath, outdoor plunge pool, sauna or steam room.
QantasLink recommences flights between Sydney and Mt Hotham from 3 July giving snow enthusiasts the benefit of being able to fly direct to Hotham in just 80 minutes. The direct flights will operate on selected Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays and Mondays during the season allowing people to enjoy a long a weekend or extended holiday in Hotham or nearby Dinner Plain. With connecting flights to Sydney from all other Australian capital cities, skiers and boarders can now get to the snow faster with the new direct service.
In a move sure to benefit regular skiers and boarders, Hotham and Falls Creek have joined forces with Perisher to offer the brand new Super Pass. Providing fantastic value, the Super Pass is offered at the early bird rate on full-season passes at each of the resorts and entitles them to ski and board at all three resorts for unlimited days in Winter 09. The Super Pass is on sale until 28 May 2009.
This season, Mt Buller has enhanced its ski field offering with a $2 million upgrade to its extensive lift network and snow making infrastructure, enabling visitors to make the most of their time on the slopes.
Off the slopes, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained with a great range of new activities and events. Adrenalin junkies will love the thrills and spills of the Banff Mountain Film Festival which hits Buller on 27 June, fresh from screenings around the world, while families will love Bobby the Gnome, a new character who will bring the Buller Gnome Roam to life.
In response to the economic crisis, Mt Baw Baw is offering never-before-seen ticket prices starting from $49* for adults and $29* for kids for weekday lift tickets making it affordable for everyone to hit the slopes (*$10 more on weekends). This year also sees the introduction of a series of new features positioned across the mountain to further enhance the skiing and boarding experience at Mt Baw Baw.
Another cost saving initiative families can take advantage of this year is the Grade 5 Ski Free Pass available to every Grade 5 student in Victoria. Supported by the five major ski resorts, every Grade 5 student is entitled to one free lift ticket or snow play pass at Mt Buller, Mt Hotham, Falls Creek, Mt Baw Baw and Lake Mountain. This gives every Grade 5 student the chance to ski, ride or play in the snow during the winter season free (excluding school holidays).
For more information visit skivic.com
Archibald Prize goes to Bendigo
One of Australia’s most prestigious art competitions, Archibald Prize, will be on show at the Bendigo Art Gallery from 30 May to 12 July.
First awarded in 1921, this year’s art entries will travel to Bendigo following their run at the Art Gallery of New South Wales.
The Bendigo Art Gallery, will be the exclusive Victorian venue for this event which will feature all 39 short listed works including an image of Ben Cousins seen restless in bed; Neil Mitchell; Dame Elizabeth Murdoch; John Safran; Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu; Richard Clapton; David Helfgott; Jimmy Barnes; Tom Keneally; Marcia Langton and Brendan Cowell.
Since its inception the Archibald Prize has aroused controversy while chronicling the changing face of Australian society. Numerous legal battles and much debate have focused on the evolving definitions of what is portraiture.
The Bendigo Gallery is expecting record numbers of visitors to the exhibition. In 2008 the Archibald Prize attracted more than 40,000 visitors - one of the highest attendances for a touring exhibition in a regional gallery. The gallery expects that the short-listed works on display this year will attract enormous interest from local as well as intrastate and interstate visitors.
For more information: www.thearchibaldprize.com.au/home or call Bendigo Art Gallery on 03 5434 6085.
Media contact: Sharon Wells on 03 9417 4665 or 0419 508 619
On-Field Action
Melburnians are mad about sport. Football in all its guises takes centre stage this winter, be it our beloved Aussie Rules, soccer or rugby league. Join in on the action at any number of footy matches throughout winter, but be sure to rug up.
Melbourne hosts the opening match of the 2009 Harvey Norman State of Origin series, the best rugby league players from traditional rivals New South Wales and Queensland lock horns at Etihad Stadium for the first of three keenly anticipated matches. If soccer is your code of choice, see the two best teams in Asia clash in their most important match of the year.
Australia’s Qantas Socceroos conclude their journey through the 2010 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifiers with a home match against fierce rivals Japan. If you're still wanting more, witness the finest in international rugby when the Qantas Wallabies take on Italy in their first test of 2008.
Football Dates for June:
Harvey Norman State of Origin 1, Etihad Stadium, 3 June 2009 www.rugbyleague.com.au
Australia v Japan FIFA World Cup Qualifier, MCG, 17 June 2009 www.footballaustralia.com.au
Australia v Italy Rugby Test, Etihad Stadium, 20 June 2009 www.rugby.com
Packages for the 2010 World Cup Asian Qualifier - Australia vs Japan - Melbourne 17 June 2009
Select from three packages including:
1. Ibis Melbourne Little Bourke Street - 3 star
1 night accommodation in a standard room
Category C ticket to the match at MCG Stadium
Per Person Twin Share from $156*
Offer ends 16 Jun 09
2. Hotel Causeway - 4 star
1 night accommodation in an executive room
Category B ticket to the match at MCG Stadium
Per Person Twin Share from $195*
Offer ends 16 Jun 09
3. Vibe Savoy Hotel Melbourne - 4 star
1 night accommodation in a standard room
Category A ticket to the match at MCG Stadium
Per Person Twin Share from $254*
Offer ends 16 Jun 09
Valid for travel 17 June 2009 only
For more information: go to qantas.com/holidays
* Terms and conditions apply
Experience the Murray River on solar powered luxury
Unwind and enjoy the great Murray River at your own pace on an Adventure Houseboat – the latest innovation in houseboat design.
Navigate your holiday down the stunning Murray River lined with red gum forest and bushland or simply moor your houseboat and relax, swim and take in the abundant wildlife. Stretch out on the spacious deck or welcome the stunning river views from every room.
Adventure Houseboats is committed to providing green energy alternatives. The 240 volt automatic generation system is supported by a high output solar panel bank, providing 24 hour a day power, with reduced fuel cost and lower emissions.
Launched this year, Advantage 1 is the latest range of houseboat in its class that uses less than half the fuel of a standard automatic power generation system, greatly reducing emissions.
Captain your own journey along the Murray River in style without damaging the planet.
For more information: www.adventurehouseboats.com.au
Media contact: Bruce Hobson 03 5023 4787 or email info@adventurehouseboats.com.au
Luxury accommodation at its eco-friendly best
Located in a tranquil 10-acre bush setting, with scenic valley views, Shack 14 is the new, eco-friendly accommodation option in the Goldfields.
Located just outside Chewton, the environmentally low impact cabin features two bedrooms and open-plan living and dining.
Akin to the ethos of luxury camping, the cabin uses green energy to run its electrical appliances, uses its own water supply which is then heated with solar energy, and also treats waste organically with a worm farm. With no television, internet, telephone and limited mobile phone coverage – the space simply utilises its position as a place to relax and reconnect.
Designed by Ken Latona, best known for his eco-lodge in Tasmania’s Bay of Fire National Park – the inside-outside living space epitomises a unique and sophisticated oasis.
The inspiration of relaxation and escapism of the retreat branches out into the community, some of the rental fee is donated to the Otis Foundation, a regional charity providing places of retreat to women with breast cancer and their families or friends.
For more information: www.shack14.com.au
Media contact: Ben Keith on 0439 316699 or email booking@shack14.com.au
Melbourne Central YHA – new backpacker accommodation
May is the opening month of Melbourne’s newest Central YHA; a fully restored, heritage-graded hostel in Melbourne’s CBD.
Formerly the Markillie’s Hotel near the corner of Flinders and Spencer Street, the 208-bed backpacker hub offers guests private rooms with ornate balconies overlooking Flinders Street or the opportunity to stay in one of the hostel’s unique rooftop terrace rooms.
Registered with the National Trust, the five storey building is of Edwardian-era neo-baroque architectural style. It was originally constructed in 1915 to provide low cost accommodation and bar facilities for workers and travellers associated with the docks, markets and railways of early Melbourne.
The original façade has been restored to its former glory and the interior has been extensively renovated to cater for today’s backpackers in an environment that reflects the eclectic culture, style and character for which Melbourne is renowned for.
Committed to the environment, the hotel features water efficient appliances, energy efficient lighting and insulation, plus low-E glass to reduce potential heat loss in winter and gain in summer. As a means to reduce energy, the entire building was recycled from the original structure on-site.
For more information: www.yha.com.au
Media contact: Kelly McCarthy (03) 9670 3802 or email kellym@yhavic.org.au
HOT DEALS
For more than a century, the Yarra Valley has been one of Melbourne’s favourite retreats. Endowed with beautiful countryside, distant blue ranges, rolling hills strung with vines, towering trees and verdant valleys make it a must see destination.
Today, the Yarra Valley is renowned for its boutique accommodation which now includes the brand new 3 Kings Bed & Breakfast which recently opened its doors.
3 Kings Bed and Breakfast
2480 Warburton Highway, Yarra Junction
Nestled high in the picturesque Yarra Valley, just over an hour’s drive from Melbourne, the brand new 3 Kings Bed and Breakfast offers the perfect place for a relaxing weekend getaway. The spaciously appointed, five star apartments feature the latest in luxury accommodation including an open gas log fire, double spa bath, large master bedroom with king bed and a private outdoor deck with magnificent views.
Make the most of this opening special and experience the Yarra Valley’s newest property for yourself.
- Book three consecutive nights and only pay for two*
- Book seven consecutive nights and only pay for five*
For bookings or more information call 0409 678 046 or visit www.3kingsbnb.com
*Price is based on twin share, six nights booking does not include breakfast provisions. Booking must be made by 30 April for stays valid until 29 December 2009. Terms and conditions apply.
Important Diary Notes
Melbourne
Harvey Norman State of Origin 1, on 3 June, Etihad Stadium
Melbourne will host the opening match of the 2009 Harvey Norman State of Origin series as rugby league showcases its growing bond with a city famous for staging world-class sporting events.
Melbourne has been at the forefront of Rugby League’s success over the past three seasons, celebrating an NRL Premiership, three straight minor premierships, three successive grand final appearances, a thrilling 2006 Origin decider, a blockbuster World Cup clash between Australia and England and the start of work on a new multi-million dollar stadium.
For more information: visit www.nrl.com.au Tickets available through Ticketmaster: 1300 136 100 or www.ticketmaster.com.au
The Light in Winter, 4 June – 5 July
In 2009 Federation Square gives us many bright reasons to rug up and head to the city. Directed by Robyn Archer, The Light in Winter is a light-based festival that brings together artists, designers and communities to explore their ideas of light, enlightenment and hope. The Light in Winter will present two elements: Volume, a spectacular installation by British artists, United Visual Artists and The Gift of Light in which more than 10 of Melbourne’s multicultural communities work together with an artist to share the meaning of light in their culture.
For more information: call 03 9655 1900 or visit www.fedsquare.com
Good Food and Wine Show, Melbourne, 5 - 8 June
The Good Food and Wine Show is Australia's largest consumer food and wine exhibition. Held at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre, the event showcases every aspect of cooking and entertaining, from food and wine to homewares and white goods and features some of the biggest name celebrity chefs from home and abroad including the one and only - Gordon Ramsay. Visitors can participate in cooking demonstrations and tasting sessions in the Wine Theatre with Australia's top winemakers and brewers.
For more information: call Liz Jones on 03 9261 4539 or go to www.goodfoodshow.com.au
To purchase tickets and general inquiries: call Ticketek on 13 28 49.
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. International, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne
For more information: call: 03 8620 2222 or visit www.ngv.vic.gov.au
Australia v Japan World Cup Qualifier, 17 June
Australia faces Japan at the MCG in this exciting soccer qualifier for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
For more information: visit www.footballaustralia.com.au
Tickets available through Ticketek www.ticketek.com.au
Circus Oz, Under the Big Top, Birrarung Marr, 17 June – 12 July
Circus Oz returns to wow Melbourne audiences under the Big Top at Birrarung Marr. Enjoy a whiz bang performance from the Circus Oz team that is cheeky, funny and utterly entertaining. Revel in the strength, agility, beauty and irreverent humour of the internationally acclaimed circus.
For more information: www.circusoz.com
For tickets: call Ticketmaster on 136 100 or visit www.ticketmaster.com.au
Australia v Italy Test Rugby, 20 June
The Qantas Wallabies return to Melbourne’s Etihad Stadium bringing sports fans an opportunity to experience the best in International Rugby when they take on Italy. In 2008, Melbourne was the venue for the first Qantas Wallabies Test of the year when they were victorious beating Ireland 18-12, and they will be keen to come away with another win.
Tickets available through Ticketmaster: visit www.ticketmaster.com.au
For more information: visit www.rugby.com.au
Melbourne Winter Masterpieces – A Day in Pompeii, 26 June – 11 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: visit www.museumvictoria.com.au
Regional Victoria
National Celtic Festival, Portarlington, 5 - 8 June
Celts from around Australia will converge on Portarlington during the June long weekend for Australia's largest and most diverse celebration of Celtic culture. The National Celtic Festival celebrates and promotes Celtic culture through a vibrant and progressive festival incorporating music, dance, literature and drama. The three-day program includes a series of concerts, small acoustic performances, workshops including language workshops, a community stage, community dance, singing performances, dramatic performances, displays and street performances.
For more information and ticketing: call Geelong Performing Arts Centre on 03 5225 1200 or contact the festival office on 03 5241 2499 or visit: www.nationalcelticfestival.com
Winter Wine Weekend, Mornington Peninsula, 6 June
Spend the Queen’s Birthday Long Weekend eating and drinking at the annual Winter Wine Weekend on the Mornington Peninsula. Enjoy great wine, tasty food, live music – a sample of what the idyllic region has to offer.
For more information and bookings: call 03 5989 2377 or visit www.mpva.com.au
Media inquiries: call Cheryl Lee on 03 5989 2377.
Winter Weekends in Port Fairy, 5 - 7 June
June is the time to enjoy the first in a series of four weekend festivals in the beautiful coastal town of Port Fairy. The theme for June’s Winter Weekend is comedy, art and jazz and features art exhibitions, comedy concerts, jazz performances and film viewings over the entire weekend.
For more information: visit www.visitportfairy.com.au
Woodend Winter Arts Festival, 5 – 9 June
The Woodend Winter Arts Festival is a celebration of music, literature and the visual arts. Lovers of the written word can enjoy workshops and discussions on a variety of Australian contemporary writing. Local artists will open their studios to visitors. The event will be held at St Ambrose Church and Hall and various venues around town. Local restaurants will celebrate with special menus.
For more information: visit www.woodendwinterartsfestival.org.au
Media inquiries: call Irene O’Duffy on 03 5427 3092
The Australian Kelpie Muster, 6 - 8 June
Held annually over the Queen’s Birthday weekend, The Australian Kelpie Muster, incorporating the Casterton Kelpie Festival and Casterton Working Dog Auction, is a celebration of Casterton as the birthplace of the Kelpie. The festival takes a light-hearted look at the Kelpie’s vital role in rural life in Australia. On Sunday, the nationally-renowned Working Dog Auction is held, attracting a crowd of over 1500.
For more information: call the Casterton Visitor Information Centre on 03 5581 2070
Media inquiries: call Rod James on 03 5579 1374
Brown Brothers Winter Festival, Milawa, 6 - 8 June
The Brown Brothers Winter Festival will be a fun-filled three days of great wine and food. Visitors will be entertained by live music and tempted by delicious gourmet food. The Epicurean Centre will be open daily for lunch between 11am and 3pm, serving up some great wine and food matches from its new winter menu. The cellar door is open from 9am to 5pm.
For more information: call 1800 001 515 or visit www.brown-brothers.com.au
Media inquiries: Michelle Nicholas on 03 5720 5434
Rutherglen Winery Walkabout, 6 - 7 June
This renowned festival in North East Victoria will again delight wine lovers from far and wide on the June long weekend. The entry fee includes al Winery Walkabout tasting glass and two days of wine sampling of the 20 participating cellar doors. From sparkling shiraz and classic table wines to luscious vintage ports and mellow muscats, Rutherglen Winery Walkabout is a chance to compare, contrast and buy some of the magnificent wines.
For more information: 1300 787 929 or visit www.rutherglenvic.com
Snow Season Opening Weekend, 6 – 8 June
Over the opening snow season weekend, Victoria’s ski resorts celebrate with a wide variety of fun activities at Mt Buller, Falls Creek, Mount Hotham and Mt Baw Baw.
General inquiries: www.skivic.com
The 10th Annual Eastern Subaru Shortest Lunch, Yarra Valley, 20 - 21 June
Head to the Yarra Valley and visit some of the smaller wineries for the annual Shortest Lunch held on the shortest weekend of the year. Enjoy a delicious progressive lunch accompanied by superb wine with a backdrop of beautiful countryside. There are 15 wineries participating in the event, each offering plates of food and wine by the glass or bottle. The event runs from 10am to 5pm each day and entertainment from noon.
For more information: call 03 5962 4800, or visit www.yarravalleywine.com
Media inquiries: call Diana Viggers on 03 9730 1349
Fun4Kids Festival, Warrnambool, 28 June – 5 July
Head to Warrnambool during the winter school holidays to enjoy the award winning Fun4Kids Festival which is staged in a large indoor village. Fun4Kids features 12 zones full of activities, interactive workshops and intriguing displays. Two monster stages with non-stop live shows everyday provide fun and affordable entertainment for all the family. There are magicians, musicians, pantomimes, bands, ballet and hilarious creatures roving the venue.
For more information: call Brooke Wilson, Festival Director on 03 5559 4816 or visit www.fun4kids.com.au