Wanted: Holiday-makers to save wildlife in Grampians
Conservation Volunteers and Parks Victoria have joined forces to offer an opportunity for tourists to experience the spectacular mountain ranges and scenery in the Grampians National Park, while also undertaking valuable research work monitoring vulnerable and endangered wildlife in the area.
The Naturewise Wildlife Monitoring Ecotour supports conservation and scientific research in the Grampians National Park, and has been awarded advanced eco certification.
These small hands-on tours (maximum eight people) take participants off the beaten track, deep into the wilderness, where they work directly with park rangers to monitor the area's small mammals such as the Long Nosed Potoroo, the vulnerable Heath Mouse and the Southern Brown Bandicoot, whose populations are all under threat from feral predators such as red fox (an introduced species).
No prior experience is required to join the tour.
In addition to the monitoring duties, visitors have a chance to explore the remote areas of the National park including areas that are normally in accessible to tourist.
The four and seven day tours depart from Melbourne at regular intervals during October and November, and include meals, transfers from Melbourne or Ballarat, transport within the national park, additional sightseeing including bushwalks, and accommodation at the YHA Eco Hostel in Halls Gap.
The Grampians YHA Eco Hostel is recognised as a leader in environmentally friendly accommodation, with many features designed to protect and compliment the natural environment, including solar hot water and electricity, rainwater tanks and grey recycling. Guests can also pick fresh herbs from the hostel garden or enjoy fresh eggs from free-roaming chickens.
For more information: www.conservationvolunteers.com.au/volunteer/grampians.htm
Media contact: Jo Davies, Conservation Volunteers Ph: 0404 840 209 or email jdavies@conservationvolunteers.com.au
Download your free mobile Insider’s Guide to Melbourne
Tourism Victoria has launched a hot new mobile application – the Insiders’ Guide to Melbourne – giving visitors the lowdown on what’s hot and what’s on in Melbourne this spring.
An Australian-first, the free guide features information about some of Melbourne’s coolest bars, restaurants, shops, cafes and events and includes a short description, contact details and a map showing how to get there.
Tourism Victoria’s Director of Marketing, Don Richter explained that the Insiders’ Guide to Melbourne highlights the range of experiences and activities that visitors can enjoy in Melbourne.
“The guide gives suggestions on how to immerse yourself in the city’s culture by highlighting the places to eat, drink, shop and sight-see,” he said.
“Melbourne is constantly evolving and there are always new things to discover – many of which are tucked down hidden laneways or behind non-descript doors.”
The Insider’s Guide to Melbourne is free and can be downloaded to compatible mobile phones by SMSing the word ‘guide’ to 0448 848 433 (04488 GUIDE).
Tourism Victoria will launch four editions of the guide with each season - the spring edition is available now.
For more information: www.visitvictoria.com/insider
Media contact: Christina Atherton, Tourism Victoria on 02 9287 6503 or Christina.atherton@tourism.vic.gov.au
New Melbourne hot spots
Spring, oriental-style, is in full bloom in Melbourne as a swathe of exciting new Asian bars and eateries open their doors. If you have hankering for sake, yakitori, satay, congee or just plain noodles, don’t miss checking out these new kids on the block.
Nihonshu, 163-165 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne Ph: 9663 8118
There’s been a certain anticipation in the air with the news that Melbourne entrepreneur Andre Bishop – the man who brought Asian chic to the Melbourne bar scene - is about to open a new establishment.
Bishop’s first bar, Robot, with its dedicated sake list, wasabi snacks and ‘geek-chic’ furnishing brought Japanese modernism to the city’s laneways. Next to open was Golden Monkey, it’s Hong Kong glamour, ‘Asian tapas’ menu and intriguing house cocktails (such as the ‘Chili Chocolate Concubine’ and the ‘Sleeping Dragon’) seeing it named best bar at last year’s Australian Bar Awards.
After undertaking extensive professional training at the Japanese Sake Brewers Association, Bishop has now opened Nihonshu, a dedicated sake venue, its minimalist interior, drinks and food menu directly inspired by the many venues that propagate on the streets of Tokyo.
Noting that sake varies as widely as does wine varieties, Bishop has sourced his sake from all across Japan to put together an extensive list of over 40 different styles including many regional variations, that is destined to turn a casual drinking habit to a serious appreciation.
Small and intimate with a tiny outdoor courtyard at the back, Nihonshu also has a range of Japanese beers and an excellent menu of sake snack food to graze on – all prepared by Japanese restaurant, Izakaya Chuji – another Bishop enterprise - which is just next door.
Maedaya 400 Bridge Rd, Richmond Ph: (03) 9428 3918
The new business venture for sake enthusiast and former Misuzu's (Albert Park) staffer Toshi Maeda, Maeyeda has had more pre-publicity than most new restaurants, thanks to its unique décor that earned a prize at the 2008 Interior Design Awards and saw the venue featured in international trend-spotting e-zine The Cool Hunter before it even opened.
On the drinks list has one of most extensive selections of premium sake in Melbourne while the menu features charcoal grills, and over 70 different Japanese tapas and yakitori.
Sho Noodle Bar, Main Gaming Floor, Crown Casino, Ph: (03) 9292 6885
The Sho Noodle Bar, a new 138-seat restaurant that has just opened in the main gaming floor at Crown Casino, has a unique point of difference to other Asian eateries: here, you don’t just get the noodles, you can watch them being made, at the twice-daily noodle-making demonstrations performed with a flourish by Master Chef Pin Tan.
With two dining areas, a tea salon and an open kitchen manned by five chefs, Sho Noodle Bar brings together tasty Asian fare in a range of styles. There’s traditional dim sum such as scallop and vegetable dumplings and pram har gow, Malaysian satay and beef rending, a diverse range of curries, congees, soups, roasts and rice dishes, as well a choice of nine different types of noodles including egg, udon, glass, crispy and hor fun.
The tea selection is extensive, the most intriguing inclusion is Pu’Er tea, a concoction of chrysanthemums missed with green, black, white and jasmine tea, which has been through a 35-year maturing process before being ready to serve.
Open for lunch and dinner but make sure you get there in plenty of time as there is a no bookings policy.
Wab Sabi Salon, 94 Smith Street, Collingwood, Ph: (03) 9417-6119
Grungy inner-city cool, eccentric furnishings and tasty Japanese cooking come together in the very groovy Wabi Sabi Salon, located on Smith Street, Fitzroy.
Chef Atsushi Kawakami, who spent many years working in Tokyo, serves up a balanced menu of new and old Japanese traditions in food, including several of his own original dishes not found anywhere else. There’s also a fine list of Japanese spirits and beers to explore. And too much sake brings on some soul-searching, sink into a cushion and your own quiet thoughts in the outdoor bamboo and pebble garden. Ahhh. How’s the serenity?
Platypus Paddle tours on the Goulburn River
Australian Adventure Experience has created a rare opportunity to view the platypus in its natural environment with its platypus paddle tours along the lower Goulburn River.
The half day tour takes visitors down the Goulburn River by raft where the platypus, normally nocturnal and very shy by nature, can be observed in the daytime in very quiet secluded areas.
The half day tour, which departs from Alexandra (about two hrs drive from Melbourne CBD) is suitable for children over eight to the mature aged explorer, and takes place all year round.
For more information: www.ausadventures.com or call (03) 5772 1440
Media contact: Emily Sloan, JMM Communications, Ph: (03) 9696 5060 or email: esloan@jmm.com.au
Nowa Nowa Nudes brings ‘au natural’ art to East Gippsland
One of East Gippsland's favourite art events, Nowa Nowa Nudes art show, taking place from 31 October to 3 November, confirms the region’s rapidly growing reputation as a hub for alternative arts and culture.
With $2000 in prize money up for grabs, the Nowa Nowa Nudes art show takes place once every two years and exhibits a wide range of art, all of which relates to the nude.
The artwork showcased spans a range of mediums with several cash prizes on offer including the ‘Threadbare’ prize for best textile work, the ‘Naked Eye’ People’s Choice award and the ‘Bottom Line’ Sponsor’s Choice award.
Now in it’s seventh incarnation, Nowa Nowa Nudes’ great popularity has seen it develop from an art show to a full blown weekend festival, with a whole program of associated events for visitors including ‘Nudes on the Piste’ (petanque/bocce), Nude Fude Café (featuring locally made Nowa Nowa Nudegat), as well as the ‘B-Natural’ music program.
A small hamlet surrounded by state forest on Princes Highway near Lakes Entrance, Nowa Nowa is rapidly becoming known for its picturesque scenery and distinctive cultural attractions such as the indigenous themed Native Culture and Sculpture Walk.
For more information: www.nowanowa.com
Wild Oak Restaurant launches new cooking school and food tour
The Wild Oak Restaurant and Wine Bar, located in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges, has launched a new cooking school and a gourmet tour are both firsts for the region.
The Wild Oak Cooking School offers ‘hands-on’ lessons for small groups of 8-10 people, conducted by Wild Oak Restaurant’s award-winning chef and owner Ben Higgs. For those who want to dip their toe in the water, there is ‘Fun with Food’, a series of one-night classes which explore a different cooking style each week. Those seeking a more intensive lesson can book into ‘Tricks of the Trade’ and learn to prepare a three course meal to impress and gain invaluable tips from a professional kitchen.
For the more serious gourmet there are specialty master classes, where participants can learn professional cooking from an invited guest chef. Private one-one-one instruction from Higgs is also available.
The new cooking school is one of several signature Dandenong Ranges experiences featured in Wild Oak Restaurant’s Wild About Food Tour, also just launched. Taking place over two indulgent days and nights, the tour includes accommodation at luxury B & B or retreat, dinner at the Wild Oak restaurant, a Yarra Valley winery tour (including a private tour and wine tasting at Elmswood Estate) and boutique beer and regional cheese tasting at Olinda Cellars.
For more information: www.wildoak.com.au
Media contact: Jilly Sime Ph: 0431970522 or email pr@wildoak.com.au
Lindenderry Country House Hotel launches new cultural events program
The award winning five-star hotel and vineyard Lindenderry in Red Hill is launching a new regular series of art, music and live performance events from early October.
The cultural program will commence with a live performance of arias, duets and ensembles drawn from the operas of Mozart, Puccini, Verdi and Bizet, performed by internationally renowned baritone Roger Howell, acclaimed soprano Emily Wang and rising star tenor Jacob Caine, all members of the Melbourne Opera. Timed to coincide with the Mornington Peninsula ‘Spring into Arts, Culture and Festivals’ event, the performance takes place on Saturday October 4th at 2.30pm, the ticket price includes a glass of sparkling on arrival.
Later in the month, Australian artist Peter D. Cole will open an exhibition of a number of his latest works which will displayed at various locations within the grounds and lounges of Lindenderry. The artist will be in person for the opening of the exhibition on Sunday 19 October, and will give a short question-and-answer session about his work.
Future events for the summer months will be announced shortly.
The new Lindenderry cultural program is the realisation of a long-held dream of owners Jan Clark and Peter Clark. ‘By hosting these events we are aiming to make opera and art more accessible to our guests and those on the Mornington Peninsula who are interested in the pursuit of cultural enjoyment”, Mrs Clarke said.
Lindenderry is also has some tempting offers available for members of food wine and travel website visitvineyards.com.au, which recently premiered its extensive new membership program in the Mornington Peninsula this month.
For more information (Lindenderry): call (03) 5989 2933 or go to www.lindenderry.com.au
For more information (Visit Vineyards): go to www.visitvineyards.com.au
Media contact (Lindenderry): Georgie Westley on (03) 8616 0534 or email: georgiew@lancemore.com.au
Media contact: (Visit Vineyards): Belinda Phillips, on (03) 03 8606 3700 or email: belinda@digmarketing.com.au
Breathtaker Destination Spa Weekend redefines indulgence
One of Victoria’s premiere day spas, Breaktaker on High Alpine Spa Retreat (Mount Buller) is holding an innovative three-day Alpine Enrichment Retreat (14-16 November) which combines therapeutic spa treatments with the best experiences Buller and its surrounds has to offer including fine food and wine, culture, spectacular scenery and much more.
Priced at $895 per person (twin share), the weekend includes two nights accommodation at the premiere Breathtaker All Suite Hotel, all meals including two gourmet dinners at the acclaimed Signature restaurant (preceded by welcome drinks and canapés on the Signature balcony); Bellydancing, African drumming and yoga lessons; a guided bush walk through the alpine forest and a cooking demonstration.
If you can’t make it this time, Breathtaker has another next destination spa weekend planned for Valentines Day 2009: bookmark 13 to 15 February 2009 in your diary now.
For more information: call (03) 5777 6377 or visit www.breathtaker.com.au
Major arts space, the Art Vault, opens in Mildura
A new privately developed project, designed to support and showcase Australian artists with special focus artists working within the Mildura region.
Located on Deakin Avenue, between Seventh and Eighth streets and in the same block as The Grand Hotel and the regional city's main restaurant precinct, the Art Vault is also close to the city's shopping plaza and one block from the Murray River.
The Art Vault features a large gallery which will feature a program of curated exhibitions, smaller exhibition space available for use by local artists, printmaking, etching and lithography facilities, 10 artist studio spaces, and two accommodation units for artists-in-residence.
The Art Vault’s opening exhibition will showcase, across a range of mediums, the diversity of artists in the local area alongside the work of some of Australia’s better known talents including Dennis Nona, Minnie Pearl and Archibald Prize winner Cherry Hood.
The Art Vault will be opened on Saturday 1 November, 2008 by Julian Burnside Q. C. with Rod Quantock on hand as Master of Ceremonies.
For more information: go to The Art Vault website www.jkmt.com.au/theartvault/index.htm
Media queries: Julie Chambers, the Art Vault, Ph: 0427 035 789 or email: juliechambers@theartvault.com.au
Spring Racing at the River
Crown Riverside by the Yarra River is set to become the number one destination to experience the Melbourne Cup Carnival away from the racetrack.
For eight days commencing Friday 31 October, Crown Riverside – the outside promenade area directly in front of Crown Casino and next to the Yarra River – will become the Carnival Live Site, presenting a huge program race-related activities including: live entertainment; a purpose-built bar, marquee and beer garden; an onsite TAB; the L'Oréal Paris Powder Room as well as showing live feeds of the races on a huge outdoor screen.
The Carnival Live Site will also be a prime Spring Racing Carnival after-party venue, with shuttle buses running between Flemington and the Carnival Live site on key race days.
For more information: www.crowncasino.com.au
Media Contact: Daniel Humphreys, Crown Entertainment Complex Ph: (03) 9292 7771 or email: danielhumphreys@crownmelbourne.com.au
Newly refurbished Grand Hyatt launches new bar and restaurant
The $45 million redevelopment of the Grand Hyatt Melbourne is in its final stages unveiling its new upper and lower lobbies, the restaurant Collins Kitchen and exclusive bar RU-CO just in time for the 2008 Spring Racing Carnival.
The interior fit out currently being installed features cutting edge design that enhances the art deco references of the building, making use of Australian timbers and Italian and Grecian marble.
The redeveloped façade on Collins Street has also been revealed and will become the entry point to a luxury retail arcade, including exclusive stores from Bulgari, Paspaley Pearls and Emporio Armani.
With a focus on local and organic produce, Collins Kitchen will bring simplicity back to the dining table, its menu featuring many authentically prepared favourites including fresh sushi and dumplings, grills and home-made pasta as prepared by rising culinary star Jason Camillo.
With its dramatic design complete with stunning outdoor courtyard, visitors at the exclusive new watering hole RU-CO will be able to choose from a spectacular wall of 2000 bottles of premium wine and an impressive list of martinis, crushes and classic cocktails, as well as a great variety of single malt whiskeys and cognacs.
For more information: www.hyatt.com
Media contact: Danielle van der Griend, Grand Hyatt Ph: (03) 9653 4666 or email danielle.vandergriend@hyatt.com
Special Packages:
Stop horsing around and book your Spring Racing package today! Experience the excitement of world-class racing, fashion, fun and entertainment for Australia’s largest sporting and social event, the Spring Racing Carnival.
Tourism Victoria has teamed up with Travelscene American Express, Qantas Holidays and the Victorian Racing Club to offer some fantastic packages to Melbourne for the Carnival.
AAMI Victoria Derby Day – from $420*
Deck yourself out in the traditional black-and-white dress code and get trackside to enjoy the party atmosphere for five Group 1 races at AAMI Victoria Derby Day (1 November).
This fantastic package includes:
- two nights’ accommodation at Travelodge Southbank or Hotel Causeway
- one ticket to AAMI Victoria Derby Day in the Banks enclosure or Carbine Marquee.
* Terms and conditions apply. Price is per person, twin share.
For more information: call Travelscene American Express on 13 13 98 or visit travelscene.net.au
Emirates Melbourne Cup – from $710*
See the most famous race-day on the Spring Racing Carnival calendar and the race that stops the nation, the Emirates Melbourne Cup (4 November).
This package is not to be missed by racing fans and fashionistas alike and includes:
- two nights’ accommodation at Novotel Melbourne on Collins or Medina Grand Melbourne
- one ticket to Emirates Melbourne Cup in the Banks Enclosure or the Carbine Marquee.
* Terms and conditions apply. Price is per person, twin share.
For more information: call Travelscene American Express on 13 13 98 or visit travelscene.net.au
Diary Notes
Melbourne
WICKED, Regent Theatre, from 27 June
The Broadway hit WICKED is delighting audiences at the glorious Regent Theatre. WICKED follows the tale of two girls who meet in the Land of Oz - one born with emerald-green skin who is smart, fiery and misunderstood; and the other who is beautiful, ambitious and popular. How these two unlikely friends wind up as the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch makes WICKED the most spellbinding musical ever.
For further information: go to www.wickedthemusical.com.au
Media contact: Howie and Taylor Publicity on 03 9654 3431
Spring Racing Carnival, throughout Victoria, 1 October to 19 November
Victoria’s famous Spring Racing Carnival is one of Australia’s best-loved annual sporting events and the best reason to dress up and enjoy world-class thoroughbred racing. For 50 days Victorians, along with interstate and international visitors, enjoy lively sports and social action. Highlights include: AAMI Victoria Derby Day on 1 November; the race that stops the nation - the Emirates Melbourne Cup on 4 November; Ladies Day - Crown Oaks Day on 6 November; and the last day of racing - Stakes Day on 8 November.
For more information: call 1300 139 401 or visit www.racingvictoria.net.au
Media contact: Damian Booth, Racing Victoria Limited on 03 9258 4252
The Spiegeltent - Melbourne 2008 season, 9 October to 14 December
Spring time in Melbourne has become synonymous with the arrival of The Spiegeltent, one of Europe’s prestigious, antique mirror tents, which takes up residence on the Arts Centre forecourt every year for a three-month season of world-class music, cabaret, sideshow and burlesque. Highlights include the first Australian World Music Expo, Chooka's Children's Festival, the weekend jazz series and the return of the tent’s extremely popular late night club - Club Spiegel. From established Australian artists such as Lior, Sammy J, CW Stoneking, Jeff Lang, Joe Camilleri and Ross Wilson to emerging artists and a sprinkling of international stars, there will be concerts to suit all tastes.
For more information: www.spiegeltent.net
Media contact: Michelle Buxton on (03) 9537 7155 or email: michelle@buxtonwalker.com
Appetite, Kage Physical Theatre, the Arts Centre, 22 to 25 October
Appetite, the much anticipated new work from multi-award winning Melbourne contemporary performance company Kage, will have its world premiere in the 2008 Melbourne International Arts Festival. Directed by Kate Denborough and combining original live music from acclaimed female vocalist New Buffalo, Appetite is a fusion of dance, theatre and visual design. Searching for fulfilment, craving meaning and reinvigoration, a successful woman on the eve of her 39th birthday (Catherine McClements, star of new TV drama Rush) invites her closest family and friends to dinner but, as the night progresses, when realising that her hunger for life, for lust, for sensation has disappeared, she is inspired to change.
For more information: www.melbournefestival.com.au
Media contact: Miranda Brown Publicity on (03) 9419 0931 or email: info@mbpublicity.com.au
Rugby League World Cup, Telstra Dome, 2 November
The 2008 Rugby League World Cup will mark the 13th chapter of the event which started back in 1954.
Since the tournament's inception, the Rugby League World Cup has been taken to eight nations, with games played in over 50 cities and towns. The 2008 Rugby League World Cup will be the third tournament held in Australasia and will feature the top 10 Rugby League nations. Join the crowds at the Australia versus England clash at Telstra Dome.
For further information: call (02) 9231 4488 or go to www.rlwc08.com
Focus on Johnnie To, ACMI, 6 to 16 November
This November, ACMI Cinemas will present Focus on Johnnie To, a comprehensive retrospective program of his solo directorial works, spanning his early films to his most recent release. Johnnie To Kei-Fung, known to Westerners as ‘Johnnie To’, is the master auteur of Hong Kong film, with a career spanning 28 years and nearly 50 producing and directing credits to his name - and counting. The season will open with To’s latest film, Sparrow (2008).
For further information: www.acmi.net.au
Media contact: Claire Butler, ACMI, on (03) 8653 2415 or Claire.butler@acmi.net.au
Ancient Hampi: The Hindu Kingdom Brought to Life, Immigration Museum,
13 November 2008 to 26 January, 2010
This international exhibition at the Immigration Museum offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the stunning World Heritage site of Hampi in southern India. Using state of the art digital technologies, this new experience presents stereographic panoramas of an extraordinary site, with all its mythological, archaeological, artistic and historic significance. Ancient Hampi includes animations of Hindu myths and stories, aerial and projected photography, an immersive digital interactive space showing 360-degree panoramic images of the site and is landscape, as well as stunning night photographs of the temples taken by John Gollings.
For more information: go to museumvictoria.com.au/immigrationmuseum
Media contact: Amanda Linardon on (03) 8341 7136 or alinardon@museum.vic.gov.au
New Views 2: Conversations in Graphic Design, Melbourne Museum, 14 November 2008 to 15 February 2009
One Hundred graphic design students and practitioners are featured in this Melbourne Museum exhibition of print and digital posters questioning the future of the profession of graphic design. The work currently on view are the result of an international call for posters with submissions from Australia, United Kingdom, United States, Portugal, France, Turkey, Singapore and Switzerland.
For more information: go to museumvictoria.com.au/immigrationmuseum
Media contact: Amanda Linardon on (03) 8341 7136 or alinardon@museum.vic.gov.au
Equitana Asia Pacific, Melbourne, 20 to 23 November
Held at the Melbourne Showgrounds, Equitana is an event celebrating the world of horses and includes more than 300 exhibitors from Australia and overseas, hundreds of horses, world-famous presenters, specialist clinics, breeders’ village, horse sales, two spectacular evening events and various exciting competitions, such as the World Cup Dressage and Showjumping, carriage driving, saddlehorse, mounted.
For more information: go to www.equitana.com.au
Australian Corporate Games, Melbourne, 21 to 23 November
This annual national multi-sport event for businesses and organisations will attract more than 9,000 participants from 300 organisations over four days at various venues in Melbourne. Twenty team and individual sports and games are on the program including: AFL; badminton; basketball; cricket; golf; indoor karting; netball; outrigger canoeing; poker; running; soccer; softball; squash; swimming; tennis; table tennis; tenpin bowling and volleyball.
For more information: www.corporategames.net.au or 1300 301 418
Chunky Move Dance Company presents I Like This (World Premiere),
Chunky Move Studios (Southbank), 21 to 30 November
I Like This is a new self-devised work from two of Australia’s finest new talents, Byron Perry and Antony Hamilton, and the first show for The Next Move, a series of performances created by the next generation of Australian dance makers and presented by Chunky Move. The Next Move is designed to bridge the divide between young choreographers making small independent work and more established choreographers running their own organisations or engaged with larger commissions.
For more information: www.chunkymove.com.au
Media contact: Miranda Brown Publicity on (03) 9419 0931 or email: info@mbpublicity.com.au
Intimacy, Australian Centre for Contemporary Art, until 30 November
Artists contemplate feelings of disquiet, loss, loneliness, passion, love and longing that embody intimate human relations in a new group exhibition at the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art. The exhibition includes works by Louise Bourgeois (France), Nan Goldin (USA) , Steve McQueen (UK), Sophie Calle (France), Mariele Neudecker (Germany), Jesper Just (Denmark), Gabrielle de Vietri (Aus), Mutlu Çerkez (Aus), Felix Gonzalez-Torres (USA), Amikam Toren (Israel), Margaret Salmon (USA) and Annika Ström (Sweden).
For further information: call (03) 9697 9999 or visit www.accaonline.org.au
Media contact: call Katrina Hall on 0421 153 046 or email khall@accaonline.org.au
Regional Victoria
Macedon Ranges Budburst Wine and Food Festival, 26 October and cellar door weekend 8 and 9 November
Budburst, the annual Macedon Ranges Wine Region celebration features over 30 talented wine-makers who open their doors for this popular food and wine celebration. Wine-lovers can sample a range of white and red varieties as well as the native sparkling ‘Macedon’ from Victoria’s famous cool climate region. The two weekends are a great opportunity to explore this picturesque region, including the gardens of Mount Macedon and Hanging Rock. On Sunday 26 October, join in the fun of a food and wine street party in Piper Street Kyneton
For further information: (03) 5422 0326 or go to www.budburst.com
2008 Mildura Jazz, Food and Wine Festival, 31 October to 3 November
The Mildura Jazz, Food and Wine Festival will delight fervent jazz enthusiasts and music lovers, as well as those who just enjoy sitting back and soaking up the ambience of Mildura's attractions including the paddle steamers, riverside wineries and parks, gourmet food and locally produced wine. The festival incorporates ticketed and free events and provides a non-stop program that caters to all tastes.
For further information: call1800 039 043 or go to www.artsmildura.com.au
The Wangaratta Festival of Jazz, 31 October to 3 November
The Wangaratta Festival of Jazz is an annual celebration of jazz and blues held in the town of Wangaratta located three hours from Melbourne in north-eastern Victoria. Since its inception in 1990, the festival has grown to include more than 90 events featuring more than 350 national and international artists. The festival hosts the National Jazz Awards, youth jazz workshops, master classes and events throughout Wangaratta and surrounding wine regions.
For further information: call 1800 801 065 or visit www.wangaratta-jazz.org.au
Media contact: Michelle Buxton on (03) 9537 7155 or email: michelle@buxtonwalker.com
Portland Bay Festival, 31 October to 4 November
Located at the western end of Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, the bustling town of Portland embraces the Melbourne Cup long weekend when it celebrates the Portland Bay Festival. Enjoy an action-packed event with colourful markets, a street parade and live music on Saturday night in the marquee located on the lawns of Portland’s foreshore. Delicious local food and wine will be available at the marquee throughout the festival. Other highlights include the Rotary Art Show, Portland Three Bays Marathon on Sunday and a Melbourne Cup social event.
For further information: call 1800 035 567 or go to www.portlandbayfestival.com.au
The Southern Gippsland 2008 Summer Starters, 1 and 2 November
The Southern Gippsland Summer Starters is held on the pre Melbourne Cup weekend. The winery celebration extends from Phillip Island to Wilsons Promontory as cellar doors located in this emerging wine region showcase local food, music and art. This is a great opportunity to meet the winemakers and sample wonderful cool climate wines.
For further information: go to www.southerngippslandwine.com.au
Media contact: call Robyn Schmidt on (03) 5664 3204
Toast to the Coast, Geelong, 1 and 2 November
Toast to the Coast is the Geelong region's annual festival devoted to wine, food and music. The festival highlights and celebrates the excellent cool climate wines produced locally. More than 100 of the region's finest wines can be savoured for $10. Approximately 20 venues will host festivals across The Bellarine, Surf Coast and Moorabool Valley.
For further information: call 1800 620 8888 or go to www.toast2coast.com
Media inquiries: call Mr Glenn Jones on 0409 548 958
Festival of Gardens, Castlemaine and Maldon, 1 to 9 November
View a wide range of beautiful gardens in and around Castlemaine and Maldon. Chat to the owners and learn how they keep their gardens looking healthy and beautiful in times of severe water restrictions. Gardens range from classical beauties to native landscapes, cottage gardens, homestead and town gardens. The theme for 2008 is ‘flowers and festivities’.
For further information: call (03) 5472 3412 or go to www.festivalofgardens.org
Compass Windows Kyneton Cup, 5 November
Head to Kyneton, in Victoria’s spa country, and enjoy all of the fashion and excitement of the country racing at Kyneton’s biggest race meeting. Held annually on the day after Melbourne Cup, this meeting offers a total day of entertainment including live music, fashions on the field, private and corporate marquees, punters’ club, on-course competitions and much more. Entry is $20 adults and children under 14 are admitted free. Courtesy buses are scheduled to meet trains from Melbourne at the Kyneton train station. Gates open at 10.00am.
For further information: call (03) 5422 1866 or go to www.kynetondistrictracingclub.com.au
Beechworth Celtic Festival, 7 to 9 November
Join in the celebrations of Beechworth’s Celtic heritage at the 15th Annual Celtic Festival. Music, myth and mayhem abound throughout Beechworth over this November weekend festival. There will be dance, music and displays.
For further information: call 1300 366 321 or go to www.beechworthcelticfestival.com.au
Jazz on Track, Walhalla, East Gippsland, 15 November
Enjoy a train trip on Victoria’s most spectacular railway whilst listening to the sounds of traditional and Dixieland jazz. The train departs Thomson Station in East Gippsland at 7pm and travels to Walhalla. Tickets cost $85 per person and include the train trip, dinner, champagne on the train and entertainment.
For more information: call (03) 5126 4201 or go to www.walhallarail.com
La Dolce Vita, King Valley, 15 and 16 November
Celebrate the arrival of spring at La Dolce Vita - the King Valley's springtime celebration of the sweet life. Enjoy a diverse variety of wines, gourmet food, spectacular scenery and warm King Valley hospitality during a wonderful weekend of Mediterranean al fresco indulgence.
For further information: call 1800 801 065 or go to www.winesofthekingvalley.com.au
Media contact: Elizabeth Ellis on (03) 5722 9774
Malmsbury Village Fair, 16 November
The Malmsbury Village Fair is a wonderful opportunity to taste the food and wine of the Macedon Ranges in the beautiful setting of the 150-year-old Malmsbury Botanic Gardens.
For more information: call (03) 5423 2088
Scody Teams Plus Mornington Peninsula Bike Ride, 16 November,
The Scody Teams Plus Mornington Peninsula is a race for both individuals and teams over some of the spectacular landscape in Victoria. Entrants can either undertake the timed Mornington to Flinders race which runs 112 km or fit in some sight-seeing on the way and take the shorter, non-timed 66km route.
For more information: www.bikevents.com.au
Strawberry and Cherry Weekend Festival, Bacchus Marsh, 22 and 23 November
The inaugural Strawberry and Cherry Weekend Festival, to be held in Bacchus Marsh, 45 minutes’ drive from Melbourne, will feature lots of fresh produce, fun activities and prizes.
For more information: call Glenda Jones (03) 5367 5250 or go to www.visitbacchusmarsh.com.au
Warrantina Lavender Harvest Festival, Yarra Valley, 23 November
Head to the annual Harvest Lavender Festival at Warrantina Lavender Farm (Wanin Yallock) and enjoy a fun day of entertainment. Set amidst the fragrant purple fields of lavender, enjoy fine food, boutique beer and local Yarra Valley wine while being entertained by music, dancing and singing. Highlights of the day will include displays of old time arts and crafts, Scottish Highland dancing, bagpipes, Irish dancing, boot scootin’ and more. Entry is: $10 for adults; $5 for children; and concession and $25 for a family pass.
For more information: go to www.warratinalavender.com.au
Media contact: Annemarie Manders on (03) 5964 4650
2008 Queenscliff Music Festival, 28 to 30 November
Now in its 12th year, the award-winning Queenscliff Music Festival is one of Australia's great contemporary music events. A family-friendly festival, Queenscliff is much loved for its depth and diversity of musical talent as well as its picturesque seaside setting. Located just over an hour's drive from Melbourne - or a 40 minute ferry trip from Sorrento - Queenscliff presents top Australian and international guests. There are wonderful venues, great food and wine and a ‘Kids Klub’. Announcements of the 2008 line-up will commence in August.
For more information: go to www.qmf.net.au
Media contact: Carolyn Logan on 03 9482 6067
2008 Great Victorian Bike Ride, 29 November to 7 December
Now in its 25th year, the 2008 Great Victorian Bike Ride is the ultimate cycling holiday which will travel through the Goldfields and Grampians regions, past wineries and stunning mountain ranges.
For more information: call1800 616 600 or go to www.greatvic.com.au
Media contact: John Meyers on 03 9818 6339
Gemstones, Jewellery, Antiques and Collectables Expo, Morwell, 29 to 30 November
Held at the Kernot Hall in Morwell, this expo is aimed at collectors and traders and will be one of the biggest events of its kind held in Victoria. Watch gemstones being polished and check out the antique jewellery, old bottles, fossils, glassware, coins, stamps, old dolls, teddy bears, books and collectables. Free antique appraisals will be conducted on both days of the expo.
For more information: call Wally Weston on (03) 5127 6548.
The Age Spring Harvest Picnic at Werribee Park, 30 November
Food and wine producers from all over Victoria will gather in the grounds of Werribee Park to sample, showcase and sell their tasty products. This will be a great day for the family and will feature music and dance on stage throughout the day, cooking demonstrations by well-known chefs, and lots of activities for kids. Bring a blanket and basket and create a picnic from the delicious range of goods on offer. The entry price includes admission to the Spring Harvest Picnic, Victorian State Rose Garden and cooking demonstrations, entertainment and car parking. Tickets cost $20 for adults, $15 for concession card holders and children under 15 years of age enter free.
For more information: call (03) 9555 0253 or visit www.harvestpicnic.com.au
Media contact: call Kirsty Hunt on 0419 525 796.