A few weeks ago we were telling you about the upcoming Spring Fashion Week to be held in Melbourne this September. Well guess what - September is in 7 days!!
Today we want to look at the special events which will be part of the Spring Fashion Week. Keep on reading as there could be something you don't want to miss!
Special Event 1 - Flemington Spring Fashion Lunch
Everyone knows it, when springtime comes the girls will be getting their fascinators and the boys will be dusting off the suit for a day at the races. Guests to this event will enjoy a two-course lunch, fine wine, live entertainment and a showcase of the latest spring fashion and race wear from Myer.
Price $165pp for Victorian Racing Club members $175pp for non-members. Includes a two-course lunch with beverages and a gift bag for each guest
Aha! Fashion is not only for the ladies, which is great because blokes (ok, not all but many) like it too. This is a movie about a young black designer called Ozwald Boateng took the men’s tailoring world by storm, and it is part of the Men of Fashion season.
Ladies, thanks to this man, our hair will never be the same again. The first celebrity hairdresser, Vidal Sassoon was a major influence on women’s hair styling in swinging sixties London.
This movie will be showing at ACMI for the duration of the fashion week More information here: www.acmi.net.au.
Special event 4 - High Tea in Style
This event involves cake and should not be missed! It will be an afternoon of fashion and delicious delicacies....AND you even get a shoulder massage and manicure! The ticket price is $95 and the venue is the Grand Hyatt. We are told bookings are essential so book your tickets today.
Discover a new Melbourne from September 5-11, 2011
All those events can be viewed on the City of Melbourne website, from whom we have borrowed some content and images.
Dear Readers, We borrowed this article from the Sunday Age (and we added some pictures) as we thought it was a great guide to holidays close to Melbourne. Hope you enjoy!
Sick of the city and the suburbs? Craig Mathieson suggests 10 day trips from Melbourne to put the spring back in your step.
Healesville Distance from CBD: 65 KILOMETRES
With its gorgeous scenery, the temptation with Healesville is simply to drive around all day, but there are several notable places to stop. If your memories of Healesville Sanctuary (Badger Creek Road, Healesville, 5957 2800) date from a distant childhood visit, you need to update them; the now expansive site has a vast menagerie of Australian wildlife in natural settings.
Taste (and undoubtedly buy) hand-made cheese from the renowned Yarra Valley Dairy (70-80 McMeikans Road, Yering, 9739 1222), and pay particular attention to the goat's cheeses. Train buffs as well as the merely curious will enjoy the Yarra Valley Tourist Railway (Healesville-Kinglake Road, Healesville, 5962 2490), where volunteers run a train or trolley service hourly most Wednesdays and Sundays. Their tracks are almost as old as the Healesville Hotel (256 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville, 5962 4002), which has been restored over the past decade. There's a cafe, fine dining restaurant and a relaxing beer garden.
Flinders Distance from CBD: 86 KILOMETRES
Ashcombe Maze
This is a day to start early, perhaps stopping for breakfast at the rustic Merrick General Store (3460 Frankston-Flinders Road, Merrick, 5989 8088), which boasts hearty country fare. Choices around the historic Mornington Peninsula town are predicated on the proximity to water, so you can walk along the Flinders pier and see what's being caught by the regulars, or if you fancy a surf, jump in at nearby Point Leo. If you want to get lost - in a good way - consider Ashcombe Maze and Lavender Gardens (15 Shoreham Road, Shoreham, 5989 8387), home to Australia's oldest hedge maze. The circular rose maze is in bloom from November til June. Finish up at Red Hill's Paringa Estate Winery (44 Paringa Road, Red Hill South, 5989 2669), where Lindsay McCall's pinot noir is winning award after award, year after year.
Daylesford Distance from CBD: 115 KILOMETRES
The Lake House (4 King Street, Daylesford, 5348 3329) is many things, including a day spa, hotel and creative home to the artist (and co-owner) Allan Wolf-Tasker, but it's nigh on impossible to go past the restaurant overseen by executive chef Alla Wolf-Tasker, where seasonal produce sourced from regional suppliers is transformed into an acclaimed menu. A walk afterwards may be necessary, so consider Mount Franklin (Daylesford-Castlemaine Road), a Parks Victoria site eight kilometres north of town, where you can walk to the summit for fine views. Alternately, just keep spoiling yourself at the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa (20 Mineral Springs Reserve Road, Hepburn Springs, 5348 8888), which is beginning its 116th year. Choose from private mineral baths, body scrubs, massages and more. Art enthusiasts will enjoy The Convent Gallery (corner Hill and Daly streets, Daylesford, 5348 3211), where a renovated gold rush mansion presents Australian and international artists.
Phillip Island Distance from CBD: 140 kilometres
More than 3 million people visit each year, and a fair percentage of them are interested in penguins. But during the summer, the daily penguin parade at the Phillip Island Nature Park (1019 Ventnor Road, Ventnor, 5951 2800) occurs at about 9pm, so it would be a long day trip. If you do stick around, consider the Penguins Plus ticket: it costs more (adult $40, family $100), but you get remarkably close. Before that you can visit the Nobbies, the park's spectacular boardwalk path along the natural sea bird gardens of the headland. For one long weekend in October, the Grand Prix Circuit (Back Beach Road, Phillip Island, 5952 2710) becomes a sprawling temporary city for the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, but the rest of the year it hosts various automotive activities, from go-karts and hot laps with an experienced race driver to slot car racing. Smell the flowers on the way back to town at Cranbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens (corner Ballarto Road and Botanic Drive, Cranbourne).
Queenscliff was, 130 years ago, a Victorian era seaside resort and it has retained its history and appeal. There's a thriving arts community, and one of the town's simple pleasures is perusing the craft outlets and galleries. Eating options support varied tastes: try the innovative take on modern Australian cuisine at Loam (650 Andersons Road, Drysdale, 5251 1101), or opt for fish and chips along the newly modernised marina (queenscliffharbour.com.au). Go one nautical step further and catch the ferry (searoad.com.au) for a 40-minute journey across to Sorrento on the Mornington Peninsula; ferries depart both ports hourly from 7am to 7pm daily. Have a drink at the elegant Queenscliff Hotel. Music fans should take note of the final weekend in November, as that's when the annual Queenscliff Music Festival hosts a panoply of talent.
The Dandenongs Distance from CBD: 35 kilometres
At 633 metres above sea level, you can literally look down on Melbourne in all its sprawling glory from the summit of Mount Dandenong. While you're there, visit William Ricketts Sanctuary on the east face, where the late artist spent decades merging the creative and natural landscape by seeding the old growth eucalyptus forest with 92 ceramic sculptures. Elsewhere in the Dandenong Ranges there's the venerable steam train Puffing Billy (Puffing Billy Place, Emerald, 9757 0700, puffingbilly.com.au), the quaint and delightful Miss Marple's Tea Rooms (382 Mount Dandenong Tourist Road, Sassafras, 9755 1610), and the National Rhododendron Gardens (The Georgian Road, Olinda, 131 963), where much is in bloom. As well as the comparatively short journey there, the Dandenongs offer a different experience throughout the seasons, from welcome coolness during the summer to light snow falls in winter.
Kyneton Distance from CBD: 85 kilometres
Nestled in the Macedon Ranges north-west of Melbourne and now bypassed by through-traffic, Kyneton is a relaxed day trip that can start with an appreciation of the gold rush town's history thanks to the bluestone Kyneton Museum (67 Piper Street, Kyneton, 5422 1228). Stay on Piper Street for something more contemporary: retail browsing. As a tree-change destination, there's a plethora of artists and craftspeople whose work is available through local shops. For fine food, the Royal George Hotel (24 Piper Street, Kyneton, 5422 1390) does lunch from Thursday to Sunday, while Annie Smithers' Bistrot & Produce (72 Piper Street, Kyneton, 5422 2039) updates classic European concepts with a contemporary twist, and provides lunch from Wednesday to Sunday. If you want a different Spring Carnival experience, consider the Kyneton Cup, held on the first Wednesday in November at NMIT Kyneton Park (Campaspe Place, Kyneton, 5422 1866).
Lorne Distance from CBD: 138 kilometres
Lorne is the tiny town that could, swelling in population many times over during the holiday season, as everything from the Falls Music Festival to the Pier to Pub swim brings in visitors. Getting to the seaside setting is a pleasure in itself, with the Great Ocean Road, beginning at Torquay. Erskine Falls (the end of Erskine Falls Road), 10 kilometres north-east of Lorne, is a natural wonder that introductes the rugged beauty of the Otways. If staying in Lorne, take the cliff-walk along the foreshore and check out Lorne Pier - the fishermen's co-op sells fresh seafood from that morning's catch. If you want to go that extra mile, check out Chris's Beacon Point Restaurant (280 Skenes Creek Road, Apollo Bay, 5237 6411) for a great dining experience.
Bendigo Distance from CBD: 150 kilometres
Leave the car at home and take the train - not only is the V/Line service between Melbourne and Bendigo frequent (vline.com.au), but the period railway station at the latter sets the tone for the regional city's Victorian-era architecture. By contrast, the Bendigo Art Gallery (42 View Street, Bendigo, 5434 6088) has rightfully gained a reputation as one of the most forward-thinking regional art spaces in the country, with American Dreams, a storied photography exhibition running from April 16 to July 10, the pick of the numerous upcoming shows. Mix up your day by taking in nearby Castlemaine, a quiet town with a selection of cafes and restaurants: consider The Good Table (233 Barker Street, Castlemaine, 5472 4400) and its six-course taste menu before exploring the various artisans' outlets.
Beechworth Distance from CBD: 284 kilometres
The longest journey of the 10 listed here, the trip to this town in the state's north-east is worthwhile simply for a visit to the celebrated Beechworth Bakery (27 Camp Street, Beechworth, 1300 233 784) for one of their trademark bee-sting cakes. For a substantial meal head to Provenance (86 Ford Street, Beechworth, 5728 1786), where you can enjoy chef and owner Michael Ryan's contemporary food in what was once a 19th-century bank (the vault is now the wine cellar); you'll soon understand why Ryan has consistently won multiple hats in various Age Good Food Guides. If sedate is the go, simply stay on Ford Street for shops such as Frances Pilley's handcrafts (45 Ford Street, Beechworth, 5728 2550) and the Beechworth Antique & Wine Centre (87 Ford Street, Beechworth, 5728 1855). The more daring will enjoy the Mountain Bike Park (Alma Road, Beechworth), an extensive and free collection of tracks and trails in a sustainable environment.
I think this article fails to mention the Great Ocean Road and how beautiful the scenery can be over there. My favourite stop was the 12 Apostles that change colour as the position of the sun changes. And it looks even better from the air (you can book helicopter rides on site).
12 Apostles
A day trip is always a great way of spending quality time with friends and family.
Remember, you don't always need to pay thousands to have splendid holidays - you can have the perfect holiday right here in Victoria.
This September, the sound of purring engines will be echoing around Phillip Island.
The V8 Supercars 'Season of Endurance' will be held from the 16th-18th of September 2011. 28 regular drivers must share their seat with a co-driver over 500 arduous kilometres to win the V8 Supercars Championship.
For the kids
Some kids' activities during the event will be the Disney Pixar’s CARS Truck Tour universe with Lightning McQueen’s Slot Car Racing Tournament, arts and crafts in Mater’s Workshop, and there's more happening on the day!
About the L&H 500 Phillip Island
Phillip Island is the birthplace of the race we now know as the Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000. The event was first held in 1960 and would be held for a further two years on the island before the event was moved to Bathurst. It has since become one of the jewels in the Australian sporting crown. Phillip Island became the new home of the pre-Bathurst endurance event in 2008.
Students on track - learn how to drive a race car
V8 Supercars will host Students on Track at the L&H 500 Phillip Island as an opportunity to provide practical learning experiences for students of all ages – and most importantly the experience is FREE! Information on how to register here.
For that weekend, make sure you have your accommodation booked early.
There are many holiday houses which are available on the island at an affordable rate. For more information visit www.looknbook.com.au.
The inaugural 6th Indonesian Film Festival will be the largest celebration of Indonesian screen culture held in Australia, showcasing an eclectic range of art house cinema from a particular corner of the globe often known for its striking beauty and rich culture.
Held during August, 19th – 25th at the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) - Melbourne. The festival appeals to a mass market of foreign film lovers as well the large Melbourne Indonesian population.
Coming up this August is your chance to discover how you can turn your home into the heaven you always wanted.
Find hundreds of renovation, building and interiors products all under the one roof. Compare alternatives and prices, take advantage of great show specials, look for ideas and take advantage of expert free advice.
This is your chance to meet a designer FOR FREE and ask them what you can do with the bathrom. To book for your free 20 minute consultation, click here.
Or you could get advice from an expert on how to turn your outdoor area into your mini paradise, whether you want to add a pool, have a play area for the kids or grow some beautiful flowers.
Spring starts next month and what better way to celebrate its return than through the Melbourne Spring Fashion Week?
This event will be held between September 5th and 11th to the great joy of all the fashionistas out there. The program is already out and we are happy to give you a small taste of what you could see at this event.
1. Business Events
The Business Series, the industry’s pinnacle seminar series, will cover relevant issues facing Melbourne’s retail, fashion and design landscape today
2. Fashion exhibition
Enjoy the glamour of this free eco-fashion exhibition at the Queen Victoria Women's Centre and discover how exciting ethical green fashion is.
3. Discover millinery
Millinery is the art of hat making
This course covers basic techniques, including blocking, use of felt, straw and trimmings and how to make a fascinator.
4. Coffee on wheels
Lavazza Coffee Cart
At the Lavazza Lounge, discover something new about authentic Italian espresso while tasting from eight signature coffee capsule blends.
5. Miss Fox Quintessential Beauty Masterclass
Taking the runway to reality, our principal hairstylists, make-up artists and couture nail technicians translate the latest trends and share insider beauty tips, tricks and techniques
6. Designer Series Runway Show
A fashion festival always needs a good runway show.
Discover Melbourne’s boutique and artisan design community in a runway inspired by the rich tapestry of the city.
You still have a month to book your flights, accommodation and tickets to the spring fashion week.
This event starts on September 5th and ends on September 11th 2011. Tickets can be booked here.
You will have seen the ads on TV – the Melbourne International Film Festival is back. This is the biggest film festival in the Southern Hemisphere, showing over 350 films from all over the world. Films will be shown at ACMI, Forum, Greater Union and Kino Cinemas.
From one of Australia's greatest filmmakers, Kriv Stenders comes the heartwarming tale of an Australian country town and the dog it loved.
The festival ends on August 7th 2011. You can book tickets online on the MIFF website: www.miff.com.au.
Date and Times
21/07/2011 to 07/08/2011
Monday: 11am - midnight
Tuesday: 11am - midnight
Wednesday: 11am - midnight
Thursday: 11am - midnight
Friday: 11am - midnight
Saturday: 11am - midnight
Sunday: 11am - midnight
Price
Single admission $18
Concession $15
Members $14
Support more marine sanctuaries in Australian Waters
These photos were taken in Westernport Bay by Lisa Schonberg. Whales in Westernport are a recent happening and is largely due to the protection of Whales in recent times. We cannot relax on this, especially as some nations continue to hunt these magnificent creatures. The immediate measures we can take is to protect our own shores and hot spots have been identified around the Australian Coast.
Take a moment to read this article I am posting, and I urge you to suppport this great and worthy cause. Without Sea Shepherd these creatures may not have been swimming in Westrenport Bay this year. Thanks Lisa, for your exciting photos.
I watched these magnificent creatures from the deck of my holiday house www.manukalodge.com.au but did not have a good enough camera to capture these shots quite like Lisa did.
Right now you have an historic opportunity to prove that you are serious about protecting whales.
The creation of marine sanctuaries can help save these majestic creatures, but we need your help to make it happen!
The Australian government has recently released a proposal for new marine sanctuaries in Australia's South West region, an area home to one half of the world's whale and dolphin species and a higher level of unique marine life than the Great Barrier Reef.
But the proposal fails our whales, and other marine life.
Critical feeding areas for the endangered blue whale, the largest creature to have ever lived, are proposed to be left unprotected and subject to oil drilling and sonar blasting. In fact, of ten critical hotspots for whales, sharks and other marine life in the region, only two are proposed for protection.
However, if we all take action now before the deadline of 8 August, we can turn this decision around. Show Australia that Sea Shepherd supporters are serious about protecting whales by having your say.
Fish, sharks, whales and other marine life are in imminent danger of an unprecedented and catastrophic extinction event at the hands of humankind, and are disappearing at a far faster rate than anyone had predicted, a recent study of the world's oceans has found from the International Programme on the State of the Ocean.
Overfishing, pollution, run-off of fertilisers from farming and the acidification of the seas caused by increasing carbon dioxide emissions are combining to put marine creatures in extreme danger.
