Fleurieu Living Magazine Summer 2020/21 by Fleurieu Living Pty Ltd

FLEURIEU LIVING T H E B E S T O F S O U T H A U S T R A L I A’ S F L E U R I E U P E N I N S U L A A N D K A N G A R O O I S L A N D

FLEURIEU LIVING MAGAZINE www.fleurieuliving.com.au

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Third time luckiest: Willunga Fresh destinations: Fleurieu Island Rose: KI Making grenache great again Music in the time of COVID Art · Design · Food · Wine · Fashion · Photography · People · Destinations

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STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS

Key Personnel Petra de Mooy Petra has always loved, art, design, photography and words. Combining all of these into a career has been the fulfillment of these interests. She loves working with all of the creatives on the Fleurieu to showcase the best the region has to offer. Jason Porter Jason has worked as a graphic designer and creative director both locally and overseas for over thirty years. When not in the office, he can usually be found tweaking the crossover filters on his ridiculously over-the-top audio system. Kate Le Gallez Kate started her working life as a lawyer and consultant, before turning to a lifelong love of writing. She confesses to suffering a mild podcast addiction, which results in her overuse of the phrase ‘I was listening to a podcast … ’ as a conversation starter. Holly Wyatt A self-described ‘city-escapee,’ Holly moved to the Fleurieu chasing wide-open spaces and the spoils of semi-rural life. Those spoils include a good coffee in the morning, a glass of wine in the evening and a bountiful supply of inspiration for her art, music and work. Kirsty Gannon Setting up home on the Fleurieu only two years ago, Kirsty feels like she has found her place in the world. With a background in film and television production in Sydney, Kirsty now thrives on the ease and pace of semirural living. Lulu Our company mascot Lulu started appearing in way too many of our Instagram posts – so now she has her own profile (sad, we know) where you can follow her charmed life. Search ‘@miss_majestica’ if you’re so inclined.

Featured Contributors Winnie Pelz In a past life, Winnie was a teacher, a television journalist, an arts administrator, a company director and a CEO. She was a slow learner and never really worked out what she wanted to pursue as a career path. These days she writes, paints and exhibits her work, curates exhibitions of other artists’ work, and spends a lot of time in the garden pulling weeds, clipping hedges and smelling the roses. She also has deep philosophical conversations about the meaning of life with her donkey Gregory, her highland cow Morag and her dog Bristle. They seem to have the answers.

Stephanie Johnston Stephanie Johnston is a former book publisher turned urban and rural planner. She writes for a number of publications including a+u, Historic Environment, The Adelaide Review, SA Life, and FLM. Stephanie is interested in how good planning and inspirational design can enhance the core drivers of a community, culture and commerce. Those interests are reflected in her involvement with the World Heritage nomination of the Adelaide Plan and Settlement Landscapes, the Adelaide Park Lands Authority and the Friends of Port Willunga.

Publisher Information Rose Ayliffe Rose Ayliffe is a freelance photographer based on the Eyre Peninsula. Raised on Kangaroo Island by her diversely artistic family, Rose developed a deep connection with the native Australian bush from a young age. After studying at the Photography Studies College in Melbourne, Rose divided her time between Europe and Australia for three years before settling in the seaside town of Streaky Bay. Focusing primarily on portrait, wedding and lifestyle photography, Rose is passionate about capturing the genuine emotions of her clients in South Australia’s stunning natural environments.

PUBLISHER Fleurieu Living Magazine is published four times a year by Fleurieu Living Pty Ltd. ISSN 2200-4033 PUBLISHING EDITOR AND MANAGING DIRECTOR Petra de Mooy petra@fleurieuliving.com.au EDITOR Kate Le Gallez ADVERTISING SALES Holly Wyatt holly@fleurieuliving.com.au Kirsty Gannon kirsty@fleurieuliving.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGNER AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jason Porter jason@fleurieuliving.com.au

Other contributing writers, photographers and stylists:

PRINTER Graphic Print Group

Megan Caldersmith, Jake Dean, Poppy Fitzpatrick, Zannie Flanangan, Robert Geh, Gill Gordon-Smith, Livi Gosling, Lori-Ellen Grant, Loki Hall, Nina Keath, Mark Laurie, Heidi Lewis, Andy Rasheed, Liza Reynolds, Nicky Schulze, Hayley Taylor and Corrina Wright.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Print: isubscribe.com.au Digital: zinio.com

DISTRIBUTION Integrated Publication Solutions

ALL ENQUIRIES Petra de Mooy petra@fleurieuliving.com.au POSTAL ADDRESS PO Box 111, Aldinga, South Australia 5173. ONLINE fleurieuliving.com.au facebook.com/FleurieuLivingMagazine instagram.com/fleurieulivingmagazine/ COPYRIGHT All content copyright Fleurieu Living Magazine Pty Ltd unless otherwise stated. While Fleurieu Living Magazine takes every care to ensure the accuracy of information in this publication, the publisher accepts no liability for errors in editorial or advertising copy. The views of the contributors are not necessarily endorsed by Fleurieu Living Magazine. Printed on paper from well managed forests and controlled sources using environmentally friendly vegetable-based inks.

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THIS ISSUE

Contents

FEATURED HOME Third time luckiest: Willunga

FASHION FEATURE Island Rose: KI

FRONT COVER PHOTO by Robert Geh Styled by Liza Reynolds

FOOD, WINE & SPIRITS

PENINSULA PEOPLE

68 On the menu: Salopian Inn, Leonards Mill and The Currant Shed

106 Go south go local: Sicily Mare and Lot 8, Aldinga 80 Coco & Shy: Wear and care on the coast 82 Ask A Local

32 Great grenache 72 Uncorked: A walk on the wild side 94 Tea and Roses: de Rose Kitchen 44 Producer profile: Little Forest Farm 28 Making grenache great again

22 Faces and places: Brenton Preece 34 Music in the time of COVID: Laura Hill Keith Jeffery and Sasha March

46 FEATURED ART FLM high school portraiture series

SCHOOL FEATURE Encounter Lutheran College

DESIGN FEATURE Romancing the wood

BOOKS & WORDS

BEST OF THE REGION

WEDDINGS

98 Great summer reads by Mark Laurie of South Seas Books at Port Elliot

09 Brand Culture 108 What to buy, where to buy it 86 Fresh destinations

116 Bethany and Ollie, Septemnber 19, 2020

HEALTH & WELLBEING

118 · Tatachilla and Encounter Lutheran School formals · Out & About: Yes, no, maybe ...

LIVING SUSTAINABLY 110 Garden feature: The weed sisters 74 Building better: Sustainability feature 24 Community jumping in to rescue little fish

26 Navigating the inbetween

BEING SOCIAL

FESTIVALS & EVENTS 12 Diary Dates to keep you cultured this summer 52 Fleurieu Film Festival 100 Waterhouse Natural Science Prize Preview Exhibition 7

ACKNOWLEDGES

Our advertising partners A special thanks to the advertising partners that have made a long-term commitment to FLM. GOLD PARTNERS

Take A Break Holiday Rentals

SILVER PARTNERS

BRONZE PARTNERS

l (Bookings 03 9005 7750) d, Goolwa on 8 and 9 April ographic Exhibition at wa from 9 to 23 April ike - Kids Magic Hall, Goolwa on 17 April en Boat Festival at the 22 and 23 April el Griffiths at Centenary

Silent Disco 4 Kids Party at Strathalbyn Library Community Centre on 27 April *Sista Girl, at Centenary Hall, Goolwa on 5 May Our Mob 2015, Aboriginal arts at Signal Point Gallery, Goolwa from 5 May to 11 June Good Things Small Packages, at South Coast Regional Art Centre, Goolwa from 5 May to 18 June *Goodbye Yellow Brick Road - The Elton John Tribute Show at Centenary Hall, Goolwa on 20 May * tickets/ booking required

l Council’s Visitor Information Centre on 1300 466 592. Alexandrina Council copy online for more events in the region, www.alexandrina.sa.gov.au

Brand culture As a thank you to our advertising partners, we would like to showcase these amazing enterprises via a short introduction to their respective businesses. Each issue will offer some insight into three of our partners.

The Vine Shed Venue & Cellar Door Sitting proudly among Conte Estate’s circa 1880 shiraz vineyard and wetlands, The Vine Shed is a new venue to explore in 2021 in McLaren Vale. The cellar door will offer a variety of experiences, from seated wine flights, to vineyard tours as well as outdoor experiences like the tractor pull where guests can enjoy a rustic picnic onboard a trailer pulled around by an old tractor. A secure kids play area will also be available very soon! The Vine Shed venue area is designed with versatility in mind, customisable to your style and budget, offering high-end rustic charm with seating for up to 200 people. With three generations of vine growing and winemaking in the region, the Conte family look forward to welcoming visitors to The Vine Shed. Cardijn College Educating and inspiring students in Adelaide’s southern suburbs for over thirty years, Cardijn College is committed to the full human growth and development of its students. The college motto ‘See, Judge, Act’ is pivotal to this approach: ‘seeing’ the full perspective of community, ‘judging’ with consideration of Christian principles, and ‘acting’ to make a difference in the lives of families, friends, local community and the wider world. Across three campuses, Cardijn’s teachers facilitate formative applied learning experiences with a commitment to working at the forefront of educating for the future. Students’ education spans well beyond the classroom to include service learning programs, which saw students in 2019 volunteer in Timor Leste. Cardijn wants to help students to not only thrive and become capable learners, but to also become the leaders that our community needs.

Go South Go Local – Onkaparinga Council The Onkaparinga Council’s Go South Go Local initiative has been designed to help the local business community recover and grow through sharing their incredible stories and showcasing our amazing regional products and services. When COVID-19 hit, the council wanted to find new ways to boost the local economy by promoting loyalty and a stronger local spending culture. Shopping local not only supports existing businesses, but also encourages new businesses leading to new local employment opportunities. To find a list of local businesses to support or have your own business listed, follow or use #GoSouthGoLocal on Instagram or visit the ON Business Directory at onbusinesspartnerprogram.com/go-southgo-local. Go South Go Local because every dollar put back into our beautiful region means that we will all continue to grow.

At Bailey Homes our focus is you. We pride ourselves on excellence in workmanship and outstanding personal service. It is our passion to bring your vision to life, and we are confident that we can assist you with your building project, whether it be a custom designed home, extension or renovation. Being established for more than 30 years, and having built hundreds of quality homes on the Fleurieu Peninsula and beyond, our quality is reflected by our multi award winning homes and our many satisfied clients. You can have peace of mind, knowing that your project is in safe hands and proud of your decision to build with Bailey Homes.

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C U S T O M D E S I G N E D H O M E S | E X T E N S I O N S | R E N O VAT I O N S | C O M M E R C I A L

Welcome to FLM From the FLM team

From our readers

As we near the end of 2020, there’s perhaps more to reflect on than any other year in recent memory. We started the year devastated and yet united by the bushfires, with little notion of what was still to come. Yet between a pandemic and global affairs, the one thing that stands out is the gratitude of South Australians – and Australians in general – for well and truly living in the lucky country, and realising it too.

Great magazine, highlights a wonderful area in South Australia – the Fleurieu Peninsula. Not being born or bred in South Australia, I didn’t have the good fortune of spending my school holidays camping, fishing, swimming, hiking, and eating my way around the ‘Peninsula’. This magazine does a great job of introducing you to areas of great interest and wonderful natural beauty. Pointing out places off (and on) the beaten track you might not normally visit or see. Learn the local history and try out the suggested cafés and restaurants, markets, wineries, beaches, galleries, look for the architecture old and new, all within a stone’s throw from Adelaide, and you won’t be disappointed. A good read! James.

Throughout the year our team has continued to travel far and wide on the Peninsula and apart from the initial lockdown in March, the pandemic has, for the most part, seemed far away. But as we furiously worked towards our deadline, we began to feel vulnerable again when the hard lockdown / un-lockdown came in on November 18. A kind of crazy seemed to take over, with bumper to bumper traffic in Aldinga and surrounds as people scrambled to shops and liquor stores to stock up on the ‘essentials’. In the end I guess people were trying their best to be compliant, and as emotional creatures we tend to over-compensate a bit. I hope at least we over-compensated with local wine! We are super proud of this summer issue – the last issue of 2020 during one of the most interesting years in business yet. We celebrate young and old, new and exciting businesses, art and design, and as always the best in food, beer, wine and spirits. We’re looking forward to seeing what’s around the corner in 2021 and, like many, hoping for a slightly less unsettling year ahead. Thank you to all of our advertisers, contributors and the FLM team for helping us steer the course through this most unusual year and for making us even stronger. And thank you, the readers – a happy new year to all. Team FLM

Petra Congratulations on the spring issue – it’s gorgeous and such a great read. Lovely to meet you and thanks for the feature, we’ve had a fabulous response! Rachael Vintage Carousel. Hi Petra I’ve just received a copy of the spring edition of the magazine. Today is my birthday and the article in the magazine is the most wonderful gift, thank you. Thank you for including our story in your wonderful magazine, thanks to Heidi for the stunning photos, thanks to Marcus for his caring and thoughtful styling and of course Kate for her absolutely beautiful words. I am so touched by this article and very grateful to you all. It has been a privilege to work with such talented people. Thank you so very, very much. Cheers Jill. Dear Petra I have been receiving your magazine for many years and anticipate its arrival. So when it went astray because of an incorrect property number on the envelope I had to inform you and ensure it does not happen again. I own a beach property at Port Willunga which has been in my family for 76 years and have spent holidays there for every one of them. This COVID year us Victorians have been banned from visiting so your magazine has been a mixed source of joy and longing. Hopefully I and my family will be able to explore your interesting destinations before Christmas. Thank you and your crew for a wonderful and informative collection of articles so well presented. The Spring edition did find me eventually. Yours sincerely Adrienne Edgar Ceres, Victoria.

FESTIVALS & EVENTS

Summer Diary Dates As we continue to navigate completely uncharted waters in 2020 and beyond, the usual calendar of summertime festivals and events is a little lighter on than in previous years. However, it affords us the perfect opportunity to enjoy the beautiful beaches and abundant nature trails we’re so blessed with in this region and the chance to get out and support small, local businesses. There are plenty of cellar doors to visit, galleries to explore, and goods and produce available to purchase at the usual shopping precincts and markets. All market details can now be found on our website fleurieuliving. com.au. Soak up the sunshine, support local and enjoy all the natural beauty and produce available to us in this spectacular part of the world. *Please note, due to the unpredictable nature of COVID-19, all events and details listed below are current at the time of printing but are subject to change or cancellation at any time. Please check for any updated information at the time of the event.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS: DECEMBER _this breath is not mine to keep Signal Point Gallery, Goolwa Wharf Precinct, Goolwa 3 December – 26 January, 10am – 4pm A provocative, cross-disciplinary art experiment about climate crisis, delusions of immortality and the existential joy of life. Showcasing performance, sculptures, art, poetry and bio-art, this collaboration between Jennifer Lyons-Reid and Carl Kuddell explores the ten stages of grief we face at times of loss. For more information, contact jaw@alexandrina.sa.gov.au Summer Twilight Markets Rotary Park, Christies Beach Fortnightly Fridays from 4 December – 26 March, 5pm – 9pm Held in the park on the Esplanade, watch as the sun sets over the ocean while enjoying a family-friendly evening of live bands, food trucks, face painting and the chance to support a collection of small local businesses and creatives. For more information, visit @marketsbytjsevents on Facebook Willunga Farmers Market on High Street September 19 and 26 Enjoy a different setting and atmosphere at the Willunga Farmers market when it opens on the High Street for these dates in September. The street will be closed to traffic and High Street traders will join in the festivities with sidewalk sales and street food. McLaren Vale Community Christmas Parade Main Road, McLaren Vale Sunday 13 December, 6pm – 8.30pm Get in the festive spirit as you enjoy the colourful floats along the main street from Field Street to Valley View Drive at this popular family-focused community event. With live music, a sausage sizzle, face painting and a special appearance by Father Christmas, there’s fun for all the family! Free event. For more information, see onkaparingacity.com/events 12

Utopian State Picnic Party Papershell Farm, 203 Almond Grove Road, Willunga South Sunday 27 December – Tuesday 29 December, 12pm – 10pm An all ages, three-day picnic event boasting an all-local live music and DJ lineup across two stages. Celebrate the Christmas and New Years’ break at this family-friendly event with food trucks, drinks, market stalls and more. Cost: from $22.19 for a one-day pass or $53.84 for a threeday pass, children under 13 free. For more information, see papershellfarm.com Murray River Splash Sturt Reserve Foreshore, Sturt Reserve Road, Murray Bridge Thursday 31 December – Tuesday 26 January, 10am – 4pm A little further afield than the Fleurieu, the Murray River Splash Festival is returning to Murray Bridge this summer. A family-friendly New Year’s Eve event will kick start the festivities with daily fun activities culminating on 26 January with Australia Day celebrations. For information, see murraybridge.sa.gov.au/discover

JANUARY Santos Tour Down Under – Domestic Cycling Festival January (exact dates to be confirmed) While the international race has been cancelled for 2021, organisers are in the process of finalising a domestic cycling festival program for intrastate and interstate visitors and cycling enthusiasts. The new event will provide the opportunity to showcase young talented riders and will feature some of South Australia’s most beautiful regions. For more information, see tourdownunder.com.au String Orchestra – Summer: Spirit of Romanticism Goolwa Centenary Hall – Sunday 24 January, 6pm Willunga Festival Hall – Thursday 26 January, 7pm This spectacular concert will be led from the cello desk by Australian String Quartet cellist, Sharon Grigoryan. It includes compositions by Fauré, Tchaikovsky, Dvořák and a magnificent song cycle by Gustav Mahler, sung by mezzo soprano, Elizabeth Campbell. For more information, contact the Alexandrina Visitor Information Centre on 1300 466 592.

Australia Day Breakfasts Happy Valley, Aldinga, Willunga, Noarlunga Tuesday 26 January, 8am – 11am Join the City of Onkaparinga and the local community to celebrate our collective history and cultural diversity, our past achievements and our exciting future at a free breakfast. Includes children’s activities and live entertainment at each venue. Free event. For more information, see onkaparingacity.com/events Strathalbyn Cup Strathalbyn Racecourse Sunday 31 January, 10.30am – 5pm Where glamour and country charm meet, get your best frock on and head to Strathalbyn for a day at the races. Enjoy the excitement of race day in a picturesque setting with something for the whole family to enjoy. For more information, see theracessa.com.au.

FEBRUARY Chilli Fest Willunga Willunga Recreation Park 20 – 21 February, 10am – 4pm A red hot weekend celebrating all things chilli – from plants to produce. Enjoy cooking demonstrations and shop for quirky chilli related merchandise. If that’s too spicy for you, chill out at the local artisan market with live music, beer, wine and sangria. Cost: $5, children under 16 free. For more information, see chillifest.com.au Fleurieu Film Festival Main Screening and Awards Night Serafino Winery, McLaren Vale Saturday 13 February, 6pm – 11.30pm Returning to Serafino Winery in 2021, the highly popular Fleurieu Below left: _this breath is not mine to keep: Contested Space. Copyright 2020 Change Media. Photo by Sam Roberts.

Film Festival will showcase short films (eight minutes and under) of varying genres by emerging and established filmmakers. The screening and awards will take place alongside good food, great wine and entertainment. Tickets from $30–$35. For more information, see fleurieufilmfestival.com.au Chamber Choir and Orchestra – Summer: Spirit of Romanticism Willunga Festival Hall – Saturday 6 February, 6pm Goolwa Centenary Hall – Sunday 14 February, 6pm Adelaide music lovers will recognise the young and brilliantly talented Jonathan Bligh. In February, he will grace the Fleurieu with his talents as a choral conductor, vocal coach and ensemble singer, leading the Chamber Choir to explore 19th century works from the Romantic Era by composers including Bruckner, Mozart, Fauré and Saëns. For more information, contact the Alexandrina Visitor Information Centre on 1300 466 592.

ONGOING Fall From Grace 206–208 Port Road, Aldinga Open Fridays 5pm – 9pm Looking for something a little more cultured to do on your Friday night? Visit Fall From Grace for a tasting, available between 6pm – 8pm, and sample what’s on offer on the night from a small producer, an interesting grape or a particular region. You can buy a glass or bottle to drink there or take home. A range of exceptional cheeses and smallgoods are also available or order a pizza at The Shack and they’ll deliver it straight to you at this cheerful and relaxed venue. Online sales and deliveries also available.

Below right: Fresh cut sunflowers at the Willunga Farmers’ Market.

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Third time luckiest Story by Nina Keath. Photography by Robert Geh. Styling by Liza Reynolds.

Left page and above: Combining design, a beautiful site and a supportive client – all set off by an amazing garden. Despite all of the curves and angles it is a beautifully cohesive design.

It’s a sunny spring morning when I ride my bike through the burgeoning back streets of Willunga to visit Tony and Sally French-Kennedy at their new home. As their third ‘owner-build’, it confirms the adage that you need to build three houses before you get it just right. Designed by their son Reuben, the benefits of growing up among house builds are clear: despite being early in his career, this house is close to perfection. Tony reflects on his son’s work with gratitude and pride saying, ‘because we’d built before, it was tempting to just draw up the plan ourselves, but we trusted Reuben. He asked us to tell him all the things that we liked and didn’t like about our previous homes. He didn’t design anything like we would have done but he met all our needs and did it with such integrity.’ Reuben reflects fondly on the design process too, recalling, ‘it was a real joy to be able to talk so freely about the project, and explore so many different ideas without judgement no matter how outrageous. There was no treading lightly! Going around to my parents’ for dinner inevitably turned into a healthy and robust debate, with plans spread all over the dinner table – eventually becoming the tablecloth.’

Reuben continues, ‘it’s not often you have a client where there is immediate trust and faith in whatever you come up with.’ However, this freedom can come with its own set of challenges. ‘When you have relative free rein, there is a sense of anxiety that you’re given this once in a lifetime opportunity, which you have to make the absolute most of and build the Taj Mahal,’ explains Reuben. ‘Slowly reality starts to permeate; you realise you have the same constraints as any other project and you’ve just got to get on with it.’ Reuben’s happiest moment was when the structural steel went up. Having spent hours mulling over a hypothetical creation on a computer screen or floor plan, watching it become a reality was truly satisfying. ‘Ultimately, I design buildings because I like building > 17

Left page top: The house nestles sympathetically into the environment. Photo by Jason Porter. Left page bottom: Large expanses of north facing windows with deep eaves ensure great solar gain in winter and shelter in the summer. Above: Architect Reuben French-Kennedy struck upon the idea of incorporating thermal mass into the concrete island bench, and then maximised this further by incorporating the dining table into the end of the bench.

‘What I wanted to achieve was a composition of the required passive building elements as a sculpted, cohesive and unique piece of architecture.’ buildings. I spent many hours just standing on the bare slab under the steel frame. I guess you’d say it was cathartic,’ he muses.

floor compared with the toe numbing unheated laundry, I declare myself a convert.

Reuben is yet to experience the catharsis of standing under the finished ceiling, however. He moved to London part way through the build and then the coronavirus hit. In true COVID-era fashion, Reuben’s guidance for the latter part of the build was delivered via Whatsapp, transmitted from the berth of the London canal boat that he renovated and now calls home. When asked what it’s like living in a boat, he replies simply, ‘it’s cold!’

Passive solar and sustainability design principles have been judiciously used throughout. By way of example, Tony explains how the house has been split into three climate zones. This zoning enabled different treatments matched to each zone. So while the living and kitchen area are double glazed, the bedrooms and studio are not. Double glazing the whole house would have been too expensive, but it also wouldn’t have matched the intended use of the bedrooms and studio, where the French-Kennedys often have the windows open. Instead, Reuben’s design incorporated a thermal block between the double-glazed living and kitchen zone, and the bedroom and studio zones. It’s smart, pragmatic and sustainable.

There is nothing cold about his parents’ new home though. Tony enthuses, ‘the climate just stays so stable – in the mornings we never get below eighteen degrees through winter.’ There are many thoughtful design elements, which have contributed to this outcome. Upon arrival, I’m invited by Tony to remove my shoes before we embark on a joyful sock-clad tour of the house in which Tony instructs me to stand in different spots to feel the benefits of underfloor heating. After sampling the warmth of the lounge room

At one of the family’s many ‘dinner design debates,’ Reuben struck upon the idea of incorporating thermal mass into the concrete island bench, and then maximised this further by incorporating the dining table into the end of the bench. Having sampled a slice of Sally’s > 19

Left page: The bathroom design combines polished concrete warmed up with wood elements and plants. Above: A standout feature of the interior is the wooden ceiling expertly crafted and enhancing the curves and angles.

delicious chocolate cake from the end of said kitchen-bench-cumdining-table, I can confirm the elegance of this design innovation. Anxious about minimising western heat gain in the master bedroom, they experimented with a green wall along the entire western end of the house. A seamlessly integrated mesh grid is now being colonised by waterfalls of wonga wonga vine, snake vine and even a Kennedia groundcover, which unexpectedly joined the party, deciding that the wall is much more fun than Sally’s lovingly tended rockery below. Reuben says, ‘the fundamentals of passive design are kind of a no brainer – solar gain, shading in summer, double glazing, cross ventilation, thermal mass, greenery etc. But I find following this recipe can result in a fairly standard character in the architecture. What I wanted to achieve was a composition of the required passive building elements as a sculpted, cohesive and unique piece of architecture.’ I think what Reuben is saying is that ‘form’ should take equal priority alongside ‘function.’ There is no joy in a house that’s thermally

comfortable but achieves this via an air conditioner running all day, with tiny windows to minimise heat loss. In fact, ‘joy’ is a word regularly employed by both Tony and Reuben and I think you can feel this in the finished product. As I stand chatting with Tony in the kitchen, belly full of cake, toes warm against the heated floor, I experience a moment of unexpected expansion as my view is carried seamlessly along the lines of the timber ceiling, through the clerestory windows and upwards to a cloud-filled sky. My heart lifts. This experience of enclosure, warmth, and comfort, fused with outward expansion, cloudy skies and distant landscapes is something rarely achieved in residential architecture. Certainly, cloud gazing is not something normally possible indoors. After speaking with Reuben, I know that my experience has been carefully cultivated. It’s a gift of good design, and I understand why his Dad feels so grateful for his guidance and vision. 21

Faces and places Brenton Preece Preece’s Surf Shop, Port Noarlunga South

Surfer / Shopkeeper / Wavewatcher For over 21 years ‘Preecey’s’ has been a meeting place for surfers of ‘the Mid’ and South Coast. If you surf these shores, you know Preecey and his shop. Photo by Jason Porter.

Community jump in to rescue little fish Have you ever heard of a Murray hardyhead or a southern pygmy perch? How about a southern purple-spotted gudgeon or a Yarra pygmy perch? Me either. These small-bodied fish are generally not well known to we landfolk, but they’re incredibly important to our waterways. And they’re fighting for their survival. Dr Sylvia Zukowski is one of the scientists endeavouring to save these and other rare or endangered endemic fish and frogs. After eight years of study and ten years in the field her credentials are numerous, but broadly speaking, she’s an aquatic ecologist. Together with her team at Aquasave Nature Glenelg Trust (ANGT) she’s putting all her skills and experience to work in protecting these little fish. While they may be small in size, their contribution to the wider ecosystem is huge: as part of the food chain, through helping

to control mosquito populations as well as feeding on algae and thereby acting as filters for the water. Sylvia tells me that of the sixteen fish species native to South Australia more than half are under threat. But through the hard work of Sylvia and her colleagues, the generosity of land-holders and ‘citizen science’, impacts are being made to ensure these pipsqueaks of the fish world survive. The small team at ANGT is varied, with each member bringing a specific area of expertise. Sylvia’s double degree in ecology and social science means she’s across what’s happening both in and out of the water. Her in-water fish knowledge goes deep (pardon the pun) as she seeks to understand not only how the fish and frogs are faring in their current environments and taking steps to ensure their survival, but also to understand all of their behaviours. Out of the water, Sylvia studies the impact of human behaviour on these creatures and engages with stakeholders and hobbyists who have both commercial and recreational interests in the habitat these fish need to thrive. In short, she talks to local fishing enthusiasts to learn how they think about fish.

Above: Nannoperca australis, or southern pygmy perch. Page right: Mogurnda adspersa, or purple-spotted gudgeon. Illustrations by Jason Porter. 24

Here’s how it works: local landowners ‘host’ these small-bodied fish in their dams and wetlands, creating surrogate homes for the fish. Fish are then bred in these dams and released back into their former wild habitats. The work being done to save these fish expands well beyond the research lab. It’s also about cleverly engaging with communities and bringing everyday citizens into the conversation and encouraging them to get knee deep in water – or even just arm deep – to help the ANGT team undertake the enormous task of saving these fish.

have been involved in every stage of the project including set up, fish management, genetic programs and release. And who knows, among them may be the next aquatic ecologist, conscious fisherman or woman, or social scientist ready to jump in and keep these little fish swimming.

Here’s how it works: local landowners ‘host’ these small-bodied fish in their dams and wetlands, creating surrogate homes for the fish. Fish are then bred in these dams and released back into their former wild habitats. One of the dams is located at Softfoot Sanctuary, a five hundred acre, privately owned family farm. Originally dedicated to breeding world-class alpacas, Softfoot is now an amazing example of the generosity of everyday citizens in action. The property is a sanctuary and ‘genetic ark’ for endangered Australian marsupials, has a large forestry project aimed at reducing their carbon footprint and now also manages a breeding dam for Yarra pygmy perch.

If you would like to know more, engage as an educator or have a dam that you think may be of possible use to the team, contact Sylvia at sylvia.zukowski@aquasave.com.au

ANGT have also worked with Investigator College at Victor Harbor to set up breeding tanks and tubs for breeding southern purple spotted gudgeon and Yarra pygmy perch for wild release. Students

NOTE: Neither fish are depicted at actual size. The southern pygmy perch grows to only 75-85mm, while the purple-spotted gudgeon can grow to 140-150mm. 25

Navigating the inbetween Story by Lori-Ellen Grant.

Parenting trends and styles have always ebbed and flowed. Around thirty-five years ago, the approach to parenting was often paternalistic based on control and doing things that were ‘for our own good’ with a clear power differential. This would be coupled with its opposite – a ‘free range’ approach with children roaming, no helicopters in sight. More recently, parenting has become something that many spend time agonising over, reading books, trying hard to do right and wishing to make amends for the wrongs personally suffered. We all fall short sometimes and have been quick to point out our own parents’ failings as we grapple with our own. When a new family member arrives, one of the biggest personal changes for new parents is the shift in focus from self to other, as we prioritise our child’s needs. If and when more children arrive, the balance of everyone’s needs continues to change as we begin to define family – our family. Many parents refer to their own childhood for guidance, what they loved, the sports they were into, going to the places of good memories. Underneath the choices and decisions made day to day are our values – what’s important to the family – like kindness, courage, respect, hard work. When a family has clarified its values, how we act is clear. The shifting ground of life has some stability we can take with us. ‘Amid the simplicity and the consistency, All right and in its place. A haven from a world unknown And many a toy for a child sewn.’ 26

As children reach early adolescence there is a transition from a carefree (hopefully) childhood to a new balance of personal freedom and control. Our paternalistic tendencies will need to change. Maybe telling them the story about what it was like for us at twelve isn’t what our teenager needs to hear right now, lest we become another member of Monty Python’s Yorkshiremen reminiscing about life in a small shoebox. Rebecca Paul from Fleurieu Counselling and Wellness, suggests a different approach: listen twice and speak once. Sometimes if we can be a little quieter, we might hear our teenagers and see them as they are. Given that we learn more from imitation than from instruction it’s good to get out of our own way as parents. To put it clearly your child is their own person, in their own right, and a part of adolescence is actioning this separation. They need to push everything away – and at times that includes you – so they can see who they are. Can you stand in the face of rejection? It isn’t easy to hear about the difficulties they are having; our desire to leap in and help can be overwhelming. We can extend the circle of trust to other trusted adults – aunties or uncles, close family friends. Giving our children the opportunity to express themselves and see themselves reflected anew in the community they are a part of. This is possibly when we can breathe a sigh of relief, we are all in this together. We too may be good people, imbuing our children with what we aspire to and keeping our shortfalls at bay. Whether parent or child, the all-too-close reality of being human is that we make mistakes. But then we adjust our behaviour, remember what we value and what’s important, grow and then learn again.

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Making grenache great again Story by Corrina Wright.

The recent release of the 2020 wine data for our McLaren Vale region contained a big surprise. Now, I‘m guessing that reviewing the SA Winegrape Crush Survey 2020 Regional Summary Report may not be high up on your summer reading list, so I’ll break it down for you. For the first time in my living memory, the average price for a tonne of McLaren Vale grenache grapes was higher than the average price for a tonne of McLaren Vale shiraz. 28

Mic drop. This got me thinking: when was the last time, if ever, that the ubiquitous shiraz played second fiddle to grenache? To answer this and more, I decided to go on a journey into the history books to tell the almost two hundred year old story of grenache in our beautiful region. Grenache’s story, it turns out, is very much tied to the changing palates of the local, national and international wine drinker from the very beginning of the Australian wine industry. Grenache made its way to Australia via Captain Arthur Phillip in 1788 on the first fleet. The origins of the variety can be traced back to northern Spain in the twelfth century, where it’s called ‘garnacha’. From there, the variety spread, establishing strong connections to regions under Spanish rule at the time: Sardinia, where it’s called ‘cannonau’, as well as the southern Rhone and Languedoc regions of France.

Left page and bottom right: Vintage bottle photos courtesy of Kay Brothers Amery and d’Arenberg. Across the region Dry Red, Burgundy and Port (Tawny) were in the main grenache based. Top: High sands grenache at Yangarra planted in 1946. Photo by Milton Wordley.

Fast forward to 1836, and on the other side of the world, South Australia was being colonised by white settlers. Cuttings had made their way into the hands of settlers like John Reynell, Thomas Hardy and Dr AC Kelly. Their names are now synonymous with the very beginnings of the wine community on the Fleurieu Peninsula. Grenache was particularly popular with early vignerons for its ability to crop at high volumes while still achieving adequate sugar (and therefore alcohol) levels, and for its hardy nature in our dry climate. By 1862, South Australian Advertiser wine correspondent Ebenezer Ward reported that grenache was ‘ ... thriving better than any other kind.’ It seemed this variety had found a new Mediterranean-esque clime to call home. The glory days of grenache continued for the next 100 years, championed in the early days by the British who had quite a

thirst for colonial wines. Grenache provided plenty of litres per vine as well as the higher alcohol levels required for a wine to endure the long boat trip to Old Blighty. At the turn of the century, consumer tastes changed. There was a yearning for sweeter fortified wines and, as luck would have it, grenache fit the bill. In the mid-1920s the UK was so desperate for the good stuff they offered a bounty on wines above 34% alcohol that almost doubled the price of bulk wine for the makers. Understandably, the love affair with grenache for both the grower and winemaker continued, making it the most planted variety in McLaren Vale until well into the 1960s. Then, in the early ‘70s, things took a turn. Buoyed by the influx of European migrants following the Second World War, particularly from Italy, the Australian consumer started to demand red table > 29

Top: Our inland sandy, dry land seems to be a recipe for good grenache grape growing. Photo courtesy of Yangarra Estate. Bottom: Taking grenache grapes to the winery 1943. Photo courtesy of Oliver’s Taranga.

wines. Grenache suffered significantly during this time, for all the reasons that it was so loved previously. Its history as a ‘bulk’ grape variety suitable only for fortified production or as a blender became frowned upon. Its lack of natural colour (wine nerd alert: grenache and pinot noir are examples of varieties that have less anthocyanin, or colour pigment, than other varieties like shiraz or cabernet sauvignon) and the fact it had been grown for quantity rather than quality for so long, resulted in a lingering belief that grenache was inferior for red table wine production. The number of hectares of grenache in the region started to take a dive as growers and winemakers adjusted to this new normal. The decline was further exacerbated by the federal government’s ‘vine-pull’ scheme of 1986. In the midst of a global grape glut, the great minds of the government at the time decided to pay growers to pull out vines. Guess which variety bore the brunt? Grenache. In particular, old vine grenache. We lost 310 hectares in total, reducing plantings in the region by a quarter in just one year. Shiraz and cabernet sauvignon ascended the throne. We were lucky that we did have some stalwart supporters of grenache in the region, so not all was lost. D’Arenberg was one of the local wineries to take advantage of the boom in red table wines, craftily blending grenache and shiraz into their famous red stripe ‘burgundy’ flagons, one of the most popular wines in the country for

many years. But prices for grenache grapes fell drastically, making it unprofitable for many growers, resulting in further destruction of old vines. Now the tides are turning once more. Consumer tastes are moving ever-so-slightly away from more full-bodied red wines and are embracing lighter wines. Growers who were lucky enough to hold onto their grenache vines through all the upheaval, are now the custodians of greatness. They also find themselves in hot demand. Winemaker Steve Pannell predicted there would be a ‘battle for vineyards’, especially in the Blewitt Springs district and any remaining bush vines. Some are now more than one hundred years old, often dry-grown and no longer producing huge volumes, but the quality of the fruit speaks for itself. As this goes to print, Chalk Hill’s 2019 Alpha Crucis Old Vine Grenache won the best wine in the 2020 McLaren Vale Wine Show. Truth be told, the revelations of the SA Winegrape Crush Survey 2020 weren’t really that big of a surprise to those of us in the local wine community. We were wondering how long it would take before our little local secret would be the envy of the wine world, and would catapult grenache to its rightful place on the throne. As famed wine writer James Halliday has said, ‘McLaren Vale Grenache is its secret weapon, not merely Australia’s best, but every bit as good as that of the Rhone Valley.’ Grenache is great again.

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FOOD & WINE

Great grenache Wine reviews by Gill Gordon-Smith IWE Sherrah Wines The wines made by Alex Sherrah are a love letter to McLaren Vale and the grape varieties that thrive there. This is his unique twist on the classic GSM blend, in which mourvedre has been substituted for nero d’Avola with delightful results. The bush vine grenache finds its perfect partners in shiraz, which softens the mid palate, and the Italian nero creating a wine with silky texture, ripe berries and hints of spice. sherrahwines.com.au Bondar Wines Andre and Selina Bondar have a small block of 50-year-old, drygrown grenache planted in sand on their renowned Rayner Vineyard in McLaren Vale. From the lowest-yielding section of that block comes this wine. Hand-picked fruit, fermented naturally in old French oak and ceramic eggs, this wine is perfumed, fresh and vibrant, with layers of complexity built around the beautifully aromatic and pure grenache fruit. Just 204 dozen bottles made. bondarwines.com.au Serafino The Serafino Reserve Grenache is passionately crafted by Charles Whish from a selection of premium vineyards across McLaren Vale, the oldest being planted in 1947. A fruit-forward style with beautiful complexity, this grenache delivers a long, even, super silky palate. A bouquet of forest berries, cherries and plums meet with brightness

and spice in this medium-bodied wine. Delicious with game dishes such as quail and pork; enjoy upon release or cellar up to 2025. serafinowines.com.au Dowie Doole The Dowie Doole B.F.G. Grenache is a classic expression of a McLaren Vale grenache, with fruit sourced from Dowie Doole’s 1965-planted bush vine grenache from the California Road Estate Vineyard, Tatachilla. With a vibrant bouquet of red berries and subtle hints of clove and lavender. The aromatics follow through to the palate, demonstrating grenache’s intrinsic vibrancy and elegance. Drink young and fresh to enjoy the vibrant grenache fruit, the wine pairs perfectly with friends and charcuterie plates. dowiedoole.com Kay Brothers The best parcels of hand-picked grenache were selected from the Amery vineyard to go into this wine. The soils are shallow red sandy loam over complex geology comprising quartz and ironstone, enhancing the aromatics of the wine. Fruit was open-fermented and gently basket pressed. The result is a rich and concentrated grenache with fruit flavours of strawberry and dark cherries and nice supple acidity, while slowly building chalky tannins provide great length. A very serious grenache. kaybrothers.com.au

Wirra Wirra The Absconder Grenache is sourced from the Blagrove Vineyard in McLaren Flat, a stone’s throw from Wirra Wirra’s 125-year-old winery. Planted in 1920, this bush vine vineyard is hand-picked and gently crushed and destemmed to two tonne open fermenters with a small number of bunches left whole. Each ferment was hand plunged to achieve the desired amount of extraction, and post-ferment the wine was matured in seasoned French oak puncheons to honestly portray this special vineyard. wirrawirra.com Oliver’s Taranga Crack a bottle, crank the wood-oven pizzas and rejoice – 180 years on, and grenache has finally reached the height of McLaren Vale cool. Despite almost drought conditions, these old bush vines have delivered the goods again. A few full bunches joined the ferment this year, offering a floral lift and lovely long tannins. With all the fragrances of a mushroom foraging tromp through the pine trees, this medium-bodied grenache is full of spice, earth and forest berry aromas. oliverstaranga.com Samson Tall This is a single site grenache from the Peppermint Farm vineyard, just up from the cellar door and once the childhood home of Samson Tall co-founder, Heather Budich. The grapes of the heritage clone grenache were handpicked, destemmed, cold soaked and open

fermented, before spending twelve months in 1500 litre French oak fudre and one year in bottle prior to release. The wine is now a lovely, savoury, medium-bodied grenache. Great in summer, served cold from the fridge. samsontall.com.au d’Arenberg During the vine pull scheme in the ‘80s, d’Arry Osborn refused to remove his old grenache vineyards. Today d’Arenberg is the keeper of nearly one third of McLaren Vale’s old bush vine grenache, earning the title of ‘Custodian’ of the variety. It’s a fuller bodied style of Grenache with masses of blood orange and amaro on the nose, fleshy red fruits and savoury spice on the palate, plus great texture, acidity and slightly grippy tannin. darenberg.com.au Vale Taras Ochota A tribute from Gill Gordon-Smith. Taras Ochota was one of the first winemakers to taste at the original Fall From Grace and supported each of our iterations since. He was a world-class, innovative winemaker and a generous, joyous, unique and beautiful soul. His passing has been met with great sadness both here and internationally. The grenache he made from McLaren Vale was exceptional – delicious, fleshy, honest, thoughtful and reflective of the vineyard and the region. Our thoughts are with his beautiful family and friends.

Music in the time of COVID Story by Kate Le Gallez.

Above: aura Hill shown in a screen grab from her Lilac Cove video clip. Photo Darren Longbottom. Videographer: Brad Halstead.

There were certain words in 2020 that so quickly flooded the lexicon they traversed the distance from buzzword to banished with heretofore unseen haste. You could say it’s unprecedented. As some words were devalued, others were bestowed new meaning: take ‘essential’ and ‘non-essential’. When COVID restrictions first came into effect, these words suddenly had the power to determine lives and livelihoods. For many musicians (category: non-essential) it meant both desolation and opportunity. Venue closures and travel restrictions saw calendars wiped and plans shelved. Three musicians – Keith Jeffery of Atlas Genius, Laura Hill of Lilac Cove and Sasha March – shared their stories of what it’s meant to be a musician in the time of COVID. After eight years in America, Victor Harbor-born Keith Jeffery was already back in South Australia when conversations started to turn more frequently to daily infection tallies. He’d spent January and February with his brothers and Atlas Genius bandmates, Steven and Michael, recording a new album. On the March morning he landed back in his homebase of Los Angeles, California’s governor 34

announced a shelter-in-place order which remains in place to this day. A week later, he was on a plane back to Australia. ‘I think it could have been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,’ he says. We’re sipping glasses of orange juice on the first hot day of the season, overlooking Victor’s bowling green from The Anchorage’s front deck. Coincidentally, it’s also the spot where the Jeffery brothers played their first gig. Their proverbial big break didn’t come until almost a decade later when, in a series of events their soon-to-be adopted home of LA would be proud of, a respected New York music writer blogged about one of their songs. ‘And then we started getting emails,’ recalls Keith. A record deal followed and by August 2012 they were touring the US. Eight years later, Keith is back in Victor ‘sitting out’ the pandemic. With the album in the bag he needed a new creative outlet, something worthy of sharing beyond the lo-fi iPhone-in-the-bedroom setup. ‘I feel like once Chris Martin cornered that market, people are going to want to gravitate towards Chris Martin versus someone else,’ he jokes. Keith’s spin was to team Atlas Genius’ music with the South Australian landscape. He began filming a series of solo performances to be shared on the band’s website and socials. Called ‘on my own’, each performance is shot by drone in an isolated location, the slow pullback of the camera revealing snippets of South Australia, from a patch of green amid the burnt out Cudlee Creek Forest to the lichen-flecked granite of Petrel Beach. One video

Above: Keith Jeffery in a screen grab from his ‘On My Own’ series seen here in the scrub of the Waitpinga cliffs.

‘From a creative point of view, when all this other stuff is so, so much more important, who cares if it doesn’t work?’ she says. ‘If you burn the cake you’re baking, you bake another one. I just wanted to put some wings on and to see where this could creatively go.’ shows a beanie-clad Keith sitting, guitar in hand, on a blanket amid salt-stunted bushes. As the shot pulls back, the craggy folds of the Waitpinga Cliffs are slowly revealed in full as the Southern Ocean, deceptively sedate on this particular day, rushes rhythmically at their base. It’s simple and arresting in equal measure. Keith is optimistic about what’s next. ‘I think that creatively, this year has been arguably the best year of my life,’ he says. The songs he’s so excited to release will soon be out in the world and in the meantime, the south coast is a pretty excellent place to be.

more refined energy, with Laura’s transcendent vocals layered with rich textures. It’s easy to characterise 2020 as unreservedly dire for the music industry, but Laura sees bright spots too, particularly for local artists. Just as we’ve looked at our own state with newly appreciative eyes, so too have local audiences enjoyed discovering some of their local talent as interstate and international artists stayed away. Certainly Laura was thrilled to pick up a spot at The Governor Hindmarsh in Adelaide vacated by New South Wales band The Rubens to launch Lilac Cove’s new single in November.

Moana-based singer-songwriter Laura Hill had her passport ready and was about to lock in tour dates for her new venture Lilac Cove when the pandemic hit. Blue eyes wide as she sips her coffee at Maxwell’s Grocery, Laura doesn’t dwell on what could have been but instead on what was and is her COVID silver lining. ‘It made me realise, I have time to really think about this and the execution of it,’ she says. ‘It just felt like, if there’s a positive from COVID, it was the time and the headspace that I needed to really execute it and be creative about it.’

If the pandemic has offered a universal lesson on the fragility of life, it only amplifies what Laura was already experiencing personally after both of her parents and her auntie were all diagnosed with cancer in 2018. This perspective brings a certain freedom. ‘From a creative point of view, when all this other stuff is so, so much more important, who cares if it doesn’t work?’ she says. ‘If you burn the cake you’re baking, you bake another one. I just wanted to put some wings on and to see where this could creatively go.’

June and July brought a fertile period of experimentation and writing for Laura. She likens her songwriting sense to a radio frequency – always there in the ether, whether you’re tuned in or not. Honing her frequency, Laura found space to write an album’s worth of songs for Lilac Cove helping to cement the shift from Laura Hill, awardwinning solo artist, to the new collective. These songs channel a

The creative experience has been more tempered for singersongwriter Sasha March. ‘In the beginning it was this real overwhelming feeling of that kind of expectation to grab the time and be super productive,’ she says over the phone from her home in Sydney. ‘But I have found it’s been a bit more of a slow burn process.’ Time is, as they say, a gift. But the experience of time in a pandemic has been fraught as days have seemed to stretch, > 35

Above: Sasha March in the ‘Yellow Throne.’ ‘My brother Aaron started a photo project a bit before COVID and lockdown hit. Each shoot with different people got more hectic leading up to the lockdown with everyone feeling unsettled and imagining some kind of apocalypse.

bleeding together into a repetitive soup. ‘The reality of having a pandemic at the forefront, it’s pretty hard to focus on anything else, even just general day-to-day conversations,’ she says. Sasha grew up on ten acres near McLaren Vale and enjoyed the sort of free-range childhood where you’re called in for dinner by the ringing of a cow bell. She wrote her first ‘crappy song’ at sixteen and after finishing school travelled around Australia and overseas. Singing has always felt natural to her, ‘and then from performing live, experiencing that connection with the audience and positive response,’ Sasha explains. ‘It’s a nice feeling, you’re doing something that connects to people and you can feel that coming back.’ But that feeling has been a bit different this year. Sasha recently played at The Vanguard in Newtown: ‘it was just so nice to have people back in a room together and feel that sense of community,’ she says. But the gig was decidedly COVID-chic, with audience members seated at cabaret-style tables and split over two sittings to meet density requirements. The kicker was the prominent signage declaring ‘No whistling, singing or yelling. If you are enjoying the show, please only clap.’ At first Sasha wasn’t quite sure how to interact, she felt clunky and stiff. But by the second set, things loosened up a little. It was a decidedly first date vibe: exciting and awkward. 36

She’s recently returned to the studio, hoping to put an EP together for release early next year. ‘It’s been quite a long process for lots of different reasons and it feels really, really necessary to get those [songs] out creatively and emotionally,’ says Sasha. With catharsis comes space to begin processing this chaotic year that began with fire and never let up. It’s a road Sasha is only now beginning to walk. ‘Trying to come to any conclusions would be forced, like trying to prematurely emerge from an experience that’s incomplete and we’re all still very deep in and confused by,’ she writes to me after our conversation. ‘I generally create after an experience when I’ve had time to find perspective, I don’t tend to frantically write while in chaos. So I’m holding hope on finding words for this wild time. There are a couple of songs already and more ideas coming.’ And really, that’s been the story of this year. We’ve all been feeling our way through 2020, adjusting our habits and expectations, trying to make sense of an altered world. Even as I write this in the sprint towards deadline, South Australia is again on red alert as a new COVID cluster has emerged. Whatever happens, we’ll all continue to find our own ways of processing the events of 2020. Cooks will cook. Writers will write. And musicians will make music, gifting us a soundtrack to this wild year.

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In our own backyard Story by Kate Le Gallez. Photography by Andy Rasheed.

Page left and above: Recent additions to the school include a colourful architecturally designed building, nature play areas and ‘Block 69’, where children can roam free in a natural environment.

At the start of 2020, Encounter Lutheran College took possession of 69 acres directly to the north of their pre-existing campus, reaching all the way to Waterport Road. It was an exciting start to the school’s twentieth year and ‘the most exciting initiative I’ve ever been part of,’ says Kelvin Grivell, ELC’s principal, some ten months down the track. Of course we now know that 2020 would quickly veer off the usual course, and with it, the school’s planned celebrations. While this extraordinary year has challenged us in unexpected ways, it’s also changed the way we look at our own backyards. In both of these respects, ELC’s acquisition – fondly known as Block 69 – has proven prescient. Not only does it expand the school’s backyard, giving their over 600 students immediate access to the Fleurieu landscape, it also offers the chance to find new and different ways to support ELC’s students to develop into resilient individuals ready for life beyond school.

In parallel with the resilience discussion, ELC’s approach to early learning in the pre-school and early primary years was increasingly recognising the value of play. Perhaps the first big step on this journey was building the creek that runs through the junior school, which can be manually turned on and off as required. Aesthetically, it was an antidote to the ‘dog’s breakfast’ of play areas that had been added during the school’s rapid expansion, but it also normalised play – in all it’s messy, imperfect glory – as part of the school day. Soon the staff began to ask why this approach couldn’t translate throughout the whole college. They were looking for ways to get out into the environment to help build resilience, but also to find ways to play. ‘So when the land became available, it was partly the resilience piece, but also this idea of not just having to get on a bus or go for a walk to get to the Fleurieu, we’ve got it right there,’ recalls Kelvin. The creek, which seemed like such a big step at the time, now seems small fry in comparison. ‘You look back and you think, well that enabled some people to feel more at ease,’ says Kelvin. And maybe it’s one of the reasons why people have embraced the block so openly, he muses. >

Above: The new middle and senior spaces, alongside others like the library – known as The Nest – and the GPS Café, finished in 2015 and 2016 respectively, have been thoughtfully designed. Page right: The creek runs through the central meeting area of the school and allows children to play around in the water.

The block purchase happened just as a $7 million project developing the middle and senior school was nearing completion. Having grown from an R-7 school with 76 students and eleven staff in 2001, to over 600 students through to year twelve, 85 staff and an early learning centre in 2020, the school had invested heavily in developing the built environment and facilities on campus. The new middle and senior spaces, alongside others like the library – known as The Nest – and the GPS Café finished in 2015 and 2016 respectively have been thoughtfully designed; a student-centred approach to form has expanded the function these spaces offer. While the café provides chef-prepared meals for senior students, it’s also a learning space offering pathways to hospitality jobs or informal learning opportunities for students who need support beyond classroom learning. And the coffee’s good too, Kelvin adds. The library also expands the traditional idea of what such spaces offer – the spiral slippery dip is a bit of a giveaway. The flexible layout can accommodate multiple groups of students at once, as well as breakout spaces for meetings. It’s become the hub of the school, not only a place for students to gather but also somewhere the wider 40

community is welcome, whether it’s babies and their parents at the weekly ‘Books in the Burrow’ songtime or guests attending the 2019 SALA opening. The block takes these ideas further. While many have asked Kelvin what the school is going ‘to do’ with block, he explains it’s not intended to be any one thing. And it’s sheer size means it doesn’t need to be. Some ideas are taking shape, like revegetation of native Gahnia filum grasses and a possible permanent structure offering shelter and perhaps water and solar storage. It’s hosted two inaugural runs: the Jamieson Ultra Marathon and the Fraser Dash. The latter saw runners race diagonally across the block, prompted by a student (Fraser) who asked how long it would take to run from one end to the other (just over three minutes for speedsters). There’s been cooking, with foundation students whipping up a ‘Wombat Stew’, a year five campout and a pump track built by a group of year nine boys. Teachers in the junior school are re-mapping their curriculum to intentionally include block experiences, with the idea that no learning unit can be completed without visiting the block. >

The new building includes a chapel, flexible learning spaces and the yellow ‘french-fries’ as they have become affectionately known.

Beyond this, Kelvin envisages a set of principles governing the use of the land that tie its enjoyment to ELC’s approach to teaching and learning. He lists seven pillars covering resilience, real-life learning, christianity, wellbeing, the environment, community and Ngarrindjeri perspectives. In enacting each of these pillars, it’s the opportunity to make connections, both physical and spiritual, that seems to excite Kelvin. There are big ideas to explore, like how local action to revegetate the land supports the global youth climate change movement led by Greta Thunberg or learning about the Ngarrindjeri nation via the shield trees identified on the block by Narangga Ngarrindjeri man, Cedric Varcoe. And there are the seemingly small things, like climbing a tree or cooking a marshmallow on a fire for the

first time, simultaneously chipping away at the nature deficit while offering the chance to experience the inherent risks of these activities. The chance to connect the big with the small, the small with the big right there in ELC’s backyard intentionally locates student learning within the bigger picture of life beyond school. It’s something Kelvin has become increasingly mindful of and the block offers a new way to rise to this challenge. ‘We have an amazing gift down there,’ says Kelvin. ‘I believe it really is our responsibility to leverage it in every possible manner so that it can be, it can exceed our expectations and it can be something that isn’t just a gift for the kids who think they’re outdoorsy kids, but for every student at Encounter.’ 43

PRODUCER PROFILE

Above: Hailey and Rohan of Little Forest Farm.

Little Forest Farm Story by Zannie Flanagan.

In 2018, Rohan Cleeves and Hailey Lane finally found their dream property. The land is situated just six kilometres from the seaside town of Middleton and on a clear day you can look down the crease of the hills to the Lower Lakes far below. After this season’s early rains, the grass is high and lush and there’s water in their small dam. It’s not hard to see why they fell in love with this little piece of paradise, their Little Forest Farm. The forty-acre block was formerly part of a much larger dairy farm and had been heavily grazed. It was the perfect place for the couple to put Rohan’s extensive experience in conservation and regenerative agriculture into practice. ‘Our ethos behind the management of the farm is one of land stewardship, where humans, as part of the ecosystem, work with nature to shape and manage it. And so we have designed the farm based on a model of integrated agro-forestry, in which a range of timber, nectar-producing and edible plants grow in a mutually beneficial manner, while regenerating soil and providing habitat for native fauna,’ explains Rohan. Since purchasing Little Forest Farm, the couple, who both still work offsite, have spent their weekends making their dream a reality. In the short time they’ve owned the property, they’ve planted out the gently sloping hillsides with hardy native species that include wattles, saltbush and quandong and installed beehives which will eventually yield up to 800 kilograms of honey annually. Their plan is to harvest the fruit, leaves and seeds of the plants and develop a range of native teas, herbs and wattle seed products. Over time, they hope to value-add to their harvest through experimentation and innovation. 44

While visiting Little Forest Farm a few weeks ago, I tasted the leaves of a few species new to me. Native foods are often very intense and need to be used in moderation, especially when you’re just discovering their unique flavour profiles. The liquorice intensity of the aniseed myrtle was my favourite; the distinctive native lemongrass was a close second. The dried or fresh leaves of either plant would, I’m sure, make delicious teas. At the highest point of the property the couple have built a large shed. Eventually they will build a house nestled just under the rim of the hill. Hailey, who originally trained as a visual artist and photographer, will soon complete her apprenticeship as an electrician and under this new guise oversaw the installation of the shed’s solar system and connection to the grid. During the planning and early development of the property, Rohan and Hailey heard about the Willunga Farmers Market (WFM) Farmers’ Scholarship. First offered in 2014, the scholarship supports young people interested in sustainable farming and the production of fresh local produce. The scholarship was designed to encourage and facilitate a future band of entrepreneurial young farmers, assisting them to overcome some of the barriers to entry into the industry while also adding to the diversity of the market and keeping it thriving into the future. Both Heirloom Harvest, who farm organically at Tooperang, and Cockatoo Creek Farm of Yankalilla, were able to take their hobby of farming to commercial success in a much shorter time with the help of the scholarship, are previous recipients. Rohan and Hailey have been worthy recipients of the WFM Farmers’ Scholarship for 2020. And while it might be six months before they pitch their tent at the market, I can’t wait to see the range of Little Forest Farm products appear for sale. Be sure to try their honey, and if you’re a licorice fan like me, follow your nose to the aniseed myrtle. Applications for the 2021 WFM Farmers’ Scholarship are open from the 21 November 2020 to 29 January 2021 and can be submitted at willungafarmersmarket.com.au/scholarship.

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Early Learning to Year 12

encounter.sa.edu.au ELC12_Fleurieu Living Magazine Advert 3_final.indd 1

13/10/20 1:19 pm

We are very pleased to present the first

FLM portraiture series

by Fleurieu-based high-school students. The series features original photographs capturing an emotion or a story, or create a document of place and time. The portraits could be studio-based, environmental, candid or self-portraits.

Above left: Resilience. Above right: Pride. Photographs by Loki Hall.

Our editorial team was very impressed with the submissions we received. It wasn’t just that they showed exceptional technical merit, but the accompanying ‘why’ statements showed how thoughtfully the students had engaged with the brief. Though all had outstanding merit, there were four submissions that were a stand out – Loki Hall, Akaysha Morgan, Evan White and Jay Van Dam. These students presented work with the strongest artistic and philosophical merit. We chose two images from each, plus an additional image from three other students.

Loki Hall, Year 12, Tatachilla Lutheran College Capturing my close friend, Steed, was incredibly emotional as I aimed to encapsulate his deeply painful, yet resilient journey. To me, using a challenging lighting setup like chiaroscuro reflects the complex racial scrutiny Indigenous Australians have had to endure. It was crucial that he looked directly into the viewer’s eyes (the lens), which makes the image more captivating and emotional. The second image to me was so important as I wanted to celebrate the conservative Japanese culture as it has been such a large part of my life. Using a rim light behind the model helped me achieve this, illuminating the falling petals.

Above left: Minakami elder. Above right: Pandemic people. Photographs by Akaysha Morgan.

Akaysha Morgan, Year 11, Encounter Lutheran College Captured in 2019, this image features an elderly woman from Minikami, Japan posing at the counter of her family-owned store. The store was filled with a variety of knick-knacks such as: small ceramic animals, traditional wooden fans, and Japanese dolls. Though neither the lady nor I spoke each other’s languages, we used gestures and Google translate to communicate. I had asked her sister if I could take a photograph of her but she replied ‘utsukushi-sa no ketsujo’ which loosely translates to ‘no beauty.’ This lady had over 100 years of life experience and yet she still didn’t see beauty in herself, so after politely rejecting the request

she gestured towards her sister. Her sister seemed hesitant also but then posed and smiled for a quick photo before finishing calculating our bill using her abacus. This image captures a moment of beauty, wisdom, pride, and culture. Captured in May 2020, a lady walks through Rundle Mall wearing a mask. Nearing the end of South Australia’s outbreak, my mum and I went to Adelaide to try and capture some of the new customs and cultural changes following the pandemic. This candid photograph tells a story of global cooperation, panic, or politics, depending on your perspective. >

Above left: Anita. Above right: Lily Brokamp. Photographs by Evan White.

Evan White, Year 12, Willunga Waldorf School My friend Scarlet and her new friend from Germany, Anita, wanted to learn how to shoot film. Scarlet had recently made friends with this lovely German girl while working and had told me all about her, so I was excited to meet her. We were practising at an old ruined building in Port Willunga, which was when I took this candid photo of Anita smiling at Scarlet. Anita is a very genuine person and she smiled at Scarlet in a very genuine and humble way. I didn’t use any technique in particular – just went for the best exposure I could.

Lilly Brokamp – Lilly is a good friend and happens to live quite close to me. We were just casually hanging out and I had some nice film at the time (Portra 800) and the light that was coming into my bedroom was real soft so we just started shooting. We had stacks of homework at the time so the stress levels were high, especially with everything that was and still is going on in the world. I feel that this photo captures what many students were feeling at the time. I used natural light coming through the window onto my bed, which was where I shot this photo.

Above left: Being silenced. Above right: The exploration of body identity. Photographs by Jay Van Dam.

Jay Van Dam, Year 12, Tatachilla Lutheran College Through my photography course in year 12, I was able to explore the concepts of identity by listening to subjects’ stories and capturing their portrait. These images would hold the essence of the pains and successes they have faced. Each image is raw and unique, just as the subjects are. I photographed the subjects in different conditions with direct lighting in order to best communicate their story. I feel so privileged to work with such strong and kind people. I just hope that I can grow a sense of strength and compassion in the viewer, and in a way spark a sense of hope in such a rough time. > 49

Above left: Kiki. Photograph by Oliver Brunton. Above right: Brianna. Photograph by Ethan Huish.

Oliver Brunton, Year 12, Tatachilla Lutheran College I chose to study photography in year 12 as I enjoyed the year 11 course and now finishing the year 12 course photography has become a real passion of mine. I like to create more cinematic and natural portraits, using nature and depicting the weather and trying to create a cinematic feel, through fog, smoke, sunrise, sunset, water etc. I think that it would be awesome to get a photo of mine published and in a magazine.

Ethan Huish, Year 11, Cardijn College In class, we focused on the theme ‘Being Human’. This topic was quite broad, although I decided to do film photography. It allowed me to explore the world around me and the people closest to me, depicting their personalities within the photos. Context: I chose to capture photos of the people closest to me, as it allowed me to truly connect to the spaces we love to be in together. I focused on using sunlight and limited colours.

Above left: Jacob. Photograph by Johanna Stocker. Above right: Water pixie. Photograph by Lilja Stevenson.

Johanna Stocker, Year 11, Cardijn College As a class we worked on a theme ‘Being Human’. I was excited about this topic as it was broad and allowed me to explore my passion for photography.

I chose my brother as my main subject. I wanted to use light in varying ways to explore his personality. I believe orange is warmth which relates to family, and I used the traditional composition showing only his face, making him the focal point.

I chose the context of the people closest to me as I wanted to represent my subject depicting their personalities with use of light, colour and composition. I think these elements were the strongest for really portraying my subject matter.

Lilja Stevenson, Year 12, Investigator College This image was designed to depict nature and its often mysterious folklore creatures. I wanted to create a water pixie and I found the idea of creating a clear definition between the foreground and background in shot quite endearing.

Above: Fleurieu Film Festival 2018 at Serafino Wines.

Fleurieu Film Festival February 13, 2021 at Serafino Winery

In February 2021, the Fleurieu Film Festival will again present a feast for the senses beneath the stars. First presented in 2016, this will be the fifth Fleurieu Film Festival after a short hiatus in 2020 to regroup with a new director. The theme for 2021 is WILD – a notion with broad scope that invites many different interpretations. The challenge for filmmakers is to respond to this theme through telling a story or informing the audience with a documentary, in no more than eight minutes. Early career filmmakers and students are encouraged to make the festival an event they will remember all their lives – perhaps as the one that launches their career. Many previous prize winners have gone on to develop successful pathways in the film industry and their selected films have won awards internationally. The 2021 festival returns to Serafino Winery. Guests will enjoy a choice of enticing options from local food stalls in a picnic setting on the lawns, or may opt for a pre-booked dinner in Serafino’s courtyard. The Onkaparinga Concert Band will set the scene playing favourite film themes, while later the haunting four-part harmonies of Saltwater Taffy will accompany the gathering crowd as they sip Serafino’s wine and wait for darkness to fall. The audience will then be entertained and enthralled by the ten films chosen as finalists. To close the evening, long after sunset, prizes will be announced and awarded to the filmmakers in recognition of their creativity and skill.

New festival patron Professor Chris Daniels, radio personality and expert on wild things, will open the event. He joins long-term festival patron Erik Thomson, well known actor and local Fleurieu resident, in providing invaluable support to the festival and its filmmakers. The festival is supported by the City of Onkaparinga as major sponsor alongside major state creative industry bodies and influencers, such as the South Australian Film Corporation, Adelaide Film Festival and Mercury CX. UniSA and Flinders University have welcomed the festival as a vehicle for their students to test their talents in a public arena. Since the last festival in 2019, a new director and board have taken on the management and promotion of the festival. Their aim is to bring these special short films to a wider audience, with a roadshow of the best films in other Fleurieu townships such as Port Noarlunga, Victor Harbor, Yankalilla and Goolwa. The organisers are planning the biggest event yet and guarantee a wonderful night out for locals and visitors alike. The festival will be held on 13 February 2021 with tickets available through Eventbrite. More information about the festival and how to buy tickets, is available at fleurieufilmfestival.com.au

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fleurieumilkco.com.au

South Aussie Farmers 53

Romancing the wood Story by Stephanie Johnston.

Previous page: Featuring a chunky red oak understory topped by powder-coated steel accents and a woven Danish cord top, Howe’s J7 Day Bed is at once sensual, comfortable and tactile. Above: SpaceCraft’s curved timber range hood brings a strong, crafted, textural element, adding warmth and a handcrafted element. Photo by Jonatahn VDK.

A verdant, sun-soaked landscape provides the backdrop to my adventure into the world of bespoke designer/makers. Over two days, I discover commonalities and points of difference between three local enterprises who are embracing the customised design movement, revealing a shared passion for timber, texture and traditional techniques. It seems SpaceCraft Joinery, 35° South Building Company and James Howe Furniture Design are all tapping into a growing desire for direct and authentic connections between buyer and maker. It’s a movement born of buyers’ increasing interest in the story behind the product; in the designer’s skill in crafting a product, their ethical approach, and the origins of the materials used. They’re looking for high quality, unique, innovative products and services with low environmental impact that reflect their chosen lifestyle – and they’re increasingly prepared to pay for these characteristics.

The reasons for engaging a designer/maker often go beyond appreciation of a particular expression of a craft. For these three designers, values are also important – both the designer/maker’s and the customer’s. One of these shared values is community; in a world of escalating uncertainty, customers want to shop and support local, and they connect with the strong sense of place and community that permeates the creative practice of these three businesses. Connection also begets trust, which enables these custom designers to take creative risks. A sense of adventure informs each new project, and makes for an exciting shared journey for user and maker, opening up space for unexpected and exceptional results. And compatibility is the key to successful outcomes in this world where personal relationships rule supreme. When I ask kitchen design specialists Nathan and Ellen Wundersitz of SpaceCraft Joinery what drives their clients to seek out their customised cabinetry solutions, the answer comes without hesitation: ‘When people come to us, they come because they’ve already spent time researching the market and they’re bored,’ says Ellen. ‘They want something different that’s unique to them.’ > 55

‘One of the positive things to come out of the pandemic is people making more conscious decisions about where to shop, and active choices about where they source products, who that might impact, and who might benefit.’

Above: SpaceCraft design using concrete, plywood, timber, tiles and laminate to add layers of texture to this Scandinavian-influenced industrial look. Photo by Bri Hammond. Note: At the time of going to print the SpaceCraft team had won won all three kitchen renovation categories as well as best kitchen design at the 2020 HIA Kitchen and Bathroom awards.

Nathan is the designer/maker in the partnership, and when I ask him to identify SpaceCraft’s point of difference, he explains that while their layouts might follow standard templates, it’s all about attention to detail, and customised tweaking of the different design elements and finishing details. ‘It might be a handle, a unique tile, an open box timber detail, or the introduction of shadow lines,’ he explains. ‘My passion is texture on texture on texture, often achieved through layers of timber ribbing in combination with other materials. I also have a passion for curves at the moment,’ he adds. The bespoke ethos is apparent in SpaceCraft’s personalised approach to each client from the initial point of contact. ‘We don’t treat them like a number,’ Nathan says. ‘A kitchen or any joinery is a piece of art, and should be treated like that…it should reflect someone’s personality.’ This direct relationship with the client results in happier customers and better design outcomes. It also creates a happier design team. ‘We’re not just about spitting out a product,’ says Ellen. ‘It’s about the people we employ being able to stretch themselves and become multidimensional.’ ‘One of the positive things to come out of the pandemic is people making more conscious decisions about where to shop, and active choices about where they source products, who that might impact, and who might benefit,’ she adds. ‘People are valuing local 56

employment, and understanding that their behaviour and decisions can have a direct impact on the viability of a local business, and on the community as a whole.’ Nathan points to a growing interest in the business’ environmental credentials. Sourcing sustainable Australian timber and quality products comes at a cost, however. Once again, establishing an early relationship with the client built on trust, good communication and shared values is essential. ‘I think the questions we ask in the first few conversations determine whether or not a project is going to be a good fit,’ says Nathan. ‘It’s basically about making sure you’re on the same page, and what you’re aiming for is achievable.’ Just as the farm-to-table movement has changed how we relate to food, the partners in 35° South Building Company use the phrase ‘forest-to-frame’ to describe how their projects are reshaping the way we might think about timber construction. Milling locallysourced wood that sequesters carbon is a natural extension of the commitment of carpenter/builders Tom Shaw, Sam Foutoulis and Ben Kernahan to producing truly sustainable buildings. Ben explains how cypress and Aleppo pine windbreaks – planted across the Fleurieu since settlement – eventually reach the end of

‘A sense of adventure informs each new project, and makes for an exciting shared journey for user and maker, opening up space for unexpected and exceptional results.’

Above left: A precision-lined timber porch welcomes you to this high-performance, double-glazed, timber-framed, permeably-wrapped, off-grid 35° South build at Narrung. Above right: The company designs, mills, crafts and installs timber frames on site. French timber framing uses heavy, squared-off and carefully fitted and joined timbers secured by large wooden pegs.

their life span, becoming messy, decrepit fire hazards. Landowners were apt to cut them down and burn them, releasing carbon into the atmosphere. Until the boys from 35° South, and their Lucas Portable Sawmill turned up. Purchasing and sharing a portable mill was one of many dreams that brought these self-described ‘respectable young men’ together to form their own company just over a year ago. ‘We also had a common goal of trying to create a work/life balance, of not being dictated to by work…of aiming to enjoy what we do, and carve out something that’s a bit unique, that we’re all passionate about,’ explains Tom. Crafting customised ‘characterful’ homes to suit their clients’ Fleurieu lifestyle is key to the team’s approach, the rugged coastlines and rolling hills of the local landscape their inspiration. This is enshrined in the company name, and embodied in their employment of traditional milling and framing techniques on site. ‘A large part of our thinking is we all had something to do with the Fleurieu, we all love it down here, it’s where we all like to work, and it’s where we’re based,’ explains Ben, who learnt the traditions and skills of French timber framing techniques, working with a French master craftsman. He dreams of showcasing the traditional wooden rafters and roof lines of a Viking-style barn to create the

‘most majestic wedding venue in South Australia’. In the meantime the boys are working on a rustic timber-framed portable wedding marquee, to be revealed in time for this summer’s wedding season. Then there’s Tom’s pet project – a series of sea container Airbnbs featuring classic provincial interiors – while Sam imagines constructing an entire village based on innovative European technology, passive heating and cooling, locally sourced materials, and the personality of each individual home buyer. I ask the boys why they love working with timber and why people seem to keep coming back to it. ‘There aren’t many products like it,’ Tom responds. ‘It’s almost got a romance about it. There’s a natural organic beauty there which can create a sense of awe…It’s like looking at a sunset or looking at the ocean.’ James Howe of James Howe Furniture Design could be described as the accidental furniture maker. He was pursuing a career as a freelance journalist, with daughter number three on the way, when wife Joanna decided she wanted ‘to do it properly’ this time. That is, she wanted a proper nursery setup with proper baby furniture. ‘She got on the internet and looked at all the baby furniture that was around and really didn’t like anything that she found,’ recounts James. ‘So she asked me to design some furniture for her.’ > 57

Above and bottom left: Howe’s J4 tables in timber and acrylic explore the interplay of light and shadow while the J5 Cabinet features chevron-fluted doors milled from solid timber. Above right: SpaceCraft – Funky timber ribbing on overhead cupboards combined with yellow pops. Photo by: Josie Withers. Bottom right: Chunky solid timber joinery is beautifully carved out at 35° South Building Company.

Joanna later saw an ad for a design award in a magazine, and convinced James to enter the pieces he’d made. His baby change table won them an all-expenses-paid trip to New York, and set James on the path of furniture designer/maker. ‘I found the process of design incredibly exciting, and really got lost in it,’ he explains. ‘I realised that was what I really wanted to do.’ The need for new dining chairs was another light bulb moment, introducing James to Danish designer Børge Mogensen’s iconic J39 ‘People’s Chair’. ‘It was a real epiphany. It really hit me in quite a profound way,’ he recalls. It seems, however, that these seeds were sown early in James. As a child, he gravitated towards his Dutch grandfather’s farmhouse in the state’s mid north. He remembers it as an incredibly ordered house, with a beautiful design aesthetic. ‘When I saw images of the inside of Mogensen’s own house, I think it really struck that same chord with me. Everything I’ve done ever since is to try to provide that experience for other people,’ he muses. 58

Mogensen’s minimalist aesthetic and hand-woven paper cord techniques have since found their way into the James Howe Furniture Design repertoire. The product catalogue currently presents eight distinct pieces that are customisable with regard to dimensions, timber, colours and finish, and are mostly manufactured by James himself. He accepts commissions only where he’s able to design the work himself. ‘If I’m going to do a commission, I want it to be something that contributes to what it is I’m trying to do in my design practice,’ he explains. When I ask him what his customers are looking for, his reply echoes the sentiments of the other designer/makers I’ve been talking to. ‘I think that there’s a real crisis in our contemporary society, with a loss of human connection in the objects that people interact with on a day-to-day basis. Everything’s mass produced. Everything’s machine made,’ says Howe. ‘I want people to sense that human connection in the stuff I make, and I like to think that my customers recognise that.’

South Seas Books

South Seas Trading

53 North Terrace, Port Elliot P: 8554 2301 www.southseasbooks.com.au

56 North Terrace, Port Elliot P: 8554 3540

is an independent bookshop on the Fleurieu’s south coast. South Seas will ignite your imagination.

offers a selection of vintage art and design pieces · clothing · jewellery · giftware and books in an evolving Arcadian haven.

GRILLED SALMON WITH A DELICIOUS SIDE OF SUNSET? You’ll love eating outside thanks to an Adelaide Outdoor Kitchen. You’ll also love how we only use the finest quality and most durable materials like our signature polished concrete benchtops that are quickly becoming the product of choice for designers and architects. Visit us online today.

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Adventure down south Looking for some adventure this summer? These six local businesses could have just what you’re looking for.

Above: Scenic flights, aerobatic flights, a flying school and charter flights, all at Adelaide Bi-Planes. Awesome!

ADELAIDE BIPLANES

CANOE THE COORONG

SOUTHERN ADVENTURE HUB

Scenic flights. Aerobatic flights. Flying school. Charter flights. Awesome! Based at the charming Aldinga Airfield, Adelaide Biplanes delivers some of the most awesome flying experiences imaginable. We have a passion for pretty much everything there is to do with aeroplanes. Simply put, it’s what we’re all about, and it’s what we look forward to sharing with anyone and everyone who has ever had the slightest dream of soaring with the birds. We look forward to welcoming you here. adelaidebiplanes.com.au

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Coorong while enjoying a relaxing kayaking experience with Canoe the Coorong. Tours depart daily (subject to weather conditions) and include all catering and equipment. We welcome all ages and skill levels – from kayaking novices to seasoned paddlers. Join one of our fun and informative tours of the Coorong, Murray Mouth and Goolwa Regions or hire a kayak to explore on your own. canoethecoorong.com

Set in the idyllic Douglas Scrub, the Southern Adventure Hub is an adrenaline-pumping, fun day out for groups and parties in the heart of the McLaren Vale wine region. Our epic adventure tower contains eight-metre rock climbing walls, a high ropes challenge course and a ‘leap of faith’ trapeze, making it perfect for kids and adults alike! Looking for a bigger challenge? Go rock climbing with our skilled instructors in nearby Onkaparinga Gorge! facebook.com/southernadventurehub

Above left: Casper the barn owl at Raptor Domain. Bottom left: Try SUP Down South at Port Willunga. Right: Fun for all at Southern Adventure Hub.

SUP DOWN SOUTH

RAPTOR DOMAIN

SURF CULTURE AUSTRALIA

SUP Down South is a small family-run business based in Port Willunga. We offer paddle board hire, lessons, tours and SUP yoga and are now in our fifth season. Our coaches have globally recognised ASI accreditation and cater for beginners through to the more advanced. They can even get you into the surf! Our website has a forecast guide that will help you plan the best time for your next paddle. supdownsouth.weebly.com

Raptor Domain delivers the only ’in-flight’ birds of prey display in South Australia. Meet an array of birds including Jedda the majestic wedgetailed eagle. Enjoy a delightful interactive experience with Casper the friendly barn owl, Banjo and Clancy the laughing kookaburras and many more. In addition you can enjoy a hands-on and educational experience with Raptor Domain’s friendly lizards and snakes. Amazing private experiences now available. See website for booking requirements. kangarooislandbirdsofprey.com.au

Learn to surf with South Australia’s original surf school, established in 1991. Our qualified instructors love to share their passion and knowledge to ensure you have a great time. Starting with some beach practice, ocean awareness and safety, we soon hit the water, staying about waist deep with the instructor guiding you at all times. You’ll soon be standing, cruising along a wave with a huge smile and feeling the stoke! All ages, all abilities, all equipment provided. surfcultureaustralia.com.au

FASHION FEATURE

Island Rose

Photography and modelling by Rose Ayliffe. Styling by Megan Caldersmith. Special thanks to Sealink Kangaroo Island, Eleanor Downs and Raptor Domain.

Jessie wrap dress by Humidity from Gorgeous Soles, McLaren Vale. Location: The granite pools at Vivonne Bay.

Tirelli green linen top and Neuw cut-off jean-shorts from Miss Gladys on Sea, Aldinga. Location: Raptor Domain, Seal Bay.

Florence paisley skirt and Sierra luxe tee from Hills & Coast, Strathalbyn. Location: Flinders Chase National Park.

Coco dress by Ridley from Gorgeous Soles, McLaren Vale. Fallen Broken Street hats available at Valley of Yore, Myponga. Location: Sunrise at Vivonne Bay.

Rose Ayliffe grew up on Kangaroo Island (KI) – part of the fourth generation of Ayliffes to call the Island home. Now living at Streaky Bay – we were fortunate to have enticed this talented and beautiful young woman back to KI as both model and photographer as we celebrate the Island’s beauty and resilience.

Aldinga | R-9

We are excited to expand Cardijn College Galilee Campus at Aldinga to oﬀer middle years learning Year 7 2021 | Year 8 2022 | Year 9 2023 08 8557 9000

info@galilee.catholic.edu.au

Noarlunga Downs | 7-12

Christie Downs | 10-12+ “You don’t find leaders, you form them.”

- Joseph Cardijn

Across three campuses in the Southern Vales www.cardijn.catholic.edu.au @CardijnCollege

This summer the Strand Gallery takes pride in presenting very significant collections fom leading Australian artists.

DECEMBER: Waterhouse by the Sea

A rare opportunity to see the work of past winners and finalists of this prestigious competition and to acquire new work from the artists.

JANUARY: Richard Maurovic

A new collection of work by thsi internationally acclaimed artist. Richard’s paintings are hung in prestige galleries around the world.

41 The Strand Port Elliot Weekends 10.00 til 4.00 or by appointment 0419 501 648

On the menu Photography by Heidi Lewis.

The Salopian Inn Dedicated to producing and presenting the finest local ingredients complemented by an extensive array of wine, gin and cocktails, The Salopian Inn serves the colours and tastes of McLaren Vale in a glass and on the plate. Chef Karena Armstrong and Innkeeper Alex Marchetti say: ‘We have created a style of hospitality that is uniquely our own and very much driven by what we grow in our garden, offering big city hospitality and products in a relaxed and truly beautiful location.’ The team at The Salopian bring their philosophy on delicious, eclectic, regional cuisine from farm to plate with style, taste and love.

Fair Fish SA Pickled Garfish, Roasted & Pickled Eggplant, Almond, Chilli & Tomato. Dressing: The garfish is sourced from Fair Fish SA. It’s grilled and then lightly pickled. The eggplant, chilli and tomato from The Salopian’s garden are the flavours of summer.

Leonards Mill The approach to food at Leonards Mill is to use the whole animal and whole plant: nose to tail and root to leaf. It’s their way of paying respect to the produce, while also being more sustainable and reducing wastage. Sourcing produce from familyowned and run farms on the Fleurieu Peninsula, the menu is extremely seasonal and is constantly changing, depending on what local producers have growing, supplemented by flowers, herbs, fruit and vegetables from their own gardens. They choose to support regenerative farming, seeking out producers who grow only what works well in their soils. Their philosophy to support local and reduce food miles extends to their wine and beer lists.

Myponga beetroots, pickled golden beetroot, raw candy stripe beetroot, Inman Valley Lilyarra goat curd, liquorice crumb, red vein sorrel. Dish matched with Moorak Pinot Noir.

The Currant Shed Chef Wayne Leeson and team create seasonally (and daily) changing menus that are eclectic and edgy. The restaurant prides itself on fresh, locally sourced ingredients from their kitchen garden as well as a selection of local suppliers producing the best the region has to offer. ‘It’s about environmental sustainability but also community sustainability. We are stronger together than we are as individuals,’ says Wayne.

Seafood, succulents, coconut and lime. Infused coconut cream poached seafood and bok choy, prawn bisque, chilli oil, finger limes, ice plant, beach bananas, crispy vermicelli and fried ginger. Dish matched with newly released 2019 Shottesbrooke Single Vineyard Series ‘Adelaide Hills’ Chardonnay.

FOOD & WINE

Uncorked Wine reviews by Gill Gordon-Smith IWE

A walk on the wild side With summer approaching and the Fleurieu vintage creeping upon us quickly, it seems timely to look at a few of the diverse grapes, styles, and winemaking options in our beautiful region. This edition we decided to take a walk on the wilder side of whites, exploring white wines made using ‘wild’ or indigenous yeast that naturally occurs on the berries and in the vineyard, rather than packaged yeast. Both ferment the grape sugars to produce alcohol and importantly, both can produce excellent wines.

good chardonnay and it’s been wonderful to see more winemakers showing the different faces of a classic grape, utilising lees, older oak and fermenting with wild yeast, bringing some lovely texture and mouthfeel to the wine. White stone fruit, white peach and just-ripe nectarine, a bright citrus splash of acidity with lemon pepper spice, chalky texture and a subtle, honeyed cashew note. It has a long, elegant finish and shows a beautiful balance between fruit and structure. All class.

But going wild can be a riskier choice, as the winemaker may have less control over the process. With risk often comes reward and more producers are looking for the unique characters, flavours and textures that can be created through fermenting naturally. For the four wineries featured, the gamble has more than paid off with these exceptional and delicious wines.

Ministry of Clouds 2020 Picpoul Refreshing, floral, citrusy, crunchy, textural A deliciously aromatic and vibrant variety that hails from the sunny south of France where it’s traditionally matched with plump, salty oysters. Winemakers Bernice Ong and Julian Forwood have excellent taste and well-travelled palates. They have made a delicious, vibrant and textural Aussie version from their McLaren Vale ‘The Chase’ vineyard. Lifted aromas of lime, florals, ripe granny smith apples and juicy nectarines jump out of the glass. Salty lemon and grapefruit pith along with sweet apple, a gorgeous fleshy mouthfeel and crisp, tangy acidity make this a wonderful drink for sunny days and warm nights. Like an imaginary cross between riesling and pinot gris.

Watkins Family Wine Watkins 2020 Currency Creek Wild Sauvignon Blanc Bright, fresh, textural, summer in a glass This is not your average savvy-B and it’s so refreshing to see a deliciously different take. The Watkins brothers are taking this Fleurieu family grape-growing and winemaking business to new heights with a fantastic cellar door complex at the Chandlers Hill winery and some seriously good wines at very affordable prices. Sam is a talented and creative winemaker with global experience and Ben is the business brain. The family has an arsenal of vineyards to select from and the wines range from the traditional to the alternative. This wine is packed with bright passionfruit, sweet citrus and stone fruit flavours. It has a chalky, lemon pith texture and a long-lasting, tangy finish. Delicious and moreish – bring on summer! Varney Wines 2019 Chardonnay Classy, fresh, textural, mouth-filling Varney Wines was recently announced as the best new winery of the year by the 2021 Halliday guide and deservedly so. Winemaker Alan works with a range of grapes from the classic to the upcoming. I love 72

Bondar Wines 2020 Fiano Bright, aromatic, fleshy, textural, layered Bondar Wines are multi-award winning producers and form part of the newest cellar door on McMurtrie Road. Andre and Selina make deliciously different wines from both classic and alternate varieties and their fiano is one of the best expressions in the region. This Southern Italian white grows beautifully on the Fleurieu and can age very well. Bondar’s version has an aromatic nose and textural mouthfeel full of white blossom, citrus, pear, green apple, melon and a subtle spice and nuttiness. A little skin contact, wild yeast, lees and ageing in older oak barrels gives it a creamy, mouth-filling, intensely flavoured, long, tangy finish. Mouth-watering and delicious.

Design / branding / video production jason@threefiftyseven.com T: 0418 895 999

Supporting local business and showcasing the amazing products and services in the Onkaparinga region.

Civil concrete construction • site management • concrete works • site preparation Call Steven Reeves on 0457 311 846 Email: stevesrconstruct@gmail.com COMMUNICATE · COMMIT · DELIVER

gosouthgolocal.com.au #GoSouthGoLocal

This is the third in a series of features profiling climate leaders from across the Fleurieu Peninsula. In this issue, we meet some of the people building climate resilient developments.

Building better Story by Nina Keath.

New suburban developments will always prompt strong feelings, particularly among neighbours. It’s the nature of these developments that determines whether locals will look optimistically at what new subdivisions can offer the community and the environment, or whether they will be met with trepidation. At a recent economic development forum, prominent Fleurieu business leaders agreed that our region cannot afford to roll out the kinds of suburbs linked with poor social, economic and environmental outcomes. As one panellist said, ‘Our suburbs are already too hot and they’re going to get a whole lot hotter under climate change. We know we can do better.’ Another of the panellists said, ‘I worry about sounding elitist, but we need higher-quality housing in the south. It’s hard to attract professionals to the region when our housing stock is so poor.’ 74

So, what does better look like? And does more sustainable and climate-resilient housing necessarily have to mean more expensive or exclusive? Tricia O’Donovan and Rick Davies don’t believe so. As co-directors of housing development company Living Not Beige, they have shown that you can build affordable and sustainable homes and still make a tidy profit. My friend, Gabrielle Scarman, happens to live in one of their developments and her experience shows that the economic benefits don’t stop with the developer but flow through into long-term affordable living and wellbeing outcomes for the homeowner. In 2014, Gabrielle and her young family had begun to worry their $320,000 budget would never secure them a suitable home. Then they heard about Living Not Beige’s Orchard Walk development in Aldinga. I remember pouring over the plans with Gabrielle and feeling excited but also sceptical that the promised sustainability benefits could be achieved on their budget. I’m delighted to have been proven spectacularly wrong.

Left page: Living Not Beige’s Orchard Walk development in Aldinga combines green space, passive solar design, and well designed and insulated homes at a fair price. Above: Gutter to gutter housing in dense suburban environments is not the way forward.

‘Our suburbs are already too hot and they’re going to get a whole lot hotter under climate change. We know we can do better.’ ‘The old adage that sustainable design is elitist and vastly more expensive is just not the case anymore.’ For the past four years, Gabrielle and her family have been thriving in a passive-solar, light-filled, 3-bedroom home replete with solar panels, rainwater tank, insulation, double glazing, internal thermal mass, communal greywater, private courtyard and garden. It’s a stark contrast to her previous dark and freezing rental. She says, ‘Our new home is so comfortable and low fuss and we couldn’t be happier. It feels so spacious even though it’s small. Our bills are very low because of the rainwater and solar power and it’s so energy efficient that we don’t need a heater or air-conditioning.’ As long-term residents of the Aldinga Arts EcoVillage themselves, Tricia and Rick have experienced firsthand the power of smart design and they want to share this with others. Their developments thoughtfully balance the individual and the collective, based on their motto ‘building community as well as homes.’ Tricia particularly appreciates the way the EcoVillage has blurred the boundaries between private and public space, removing all fencing and instead relying on landscaping to provide visual cues to delineate spaces. Tricia says, ‘Kids can run free and are able to form precious relationships with the elderly. We get intergenerational integration

and people receive passive support from their neighbours.’ She places particular value on this integration in contrast to the way aged care is traditionally managed by separating the elderly out. ‘We have an aged care model that’s not working but here the community are supporting our elderly without formalisation of care. It’s just being neighbourly. This is a product of design as much as anything and we, as a society, need more of that,’ she continues. We’re gazing into their north-facing courtyard leading into communal land bursting with blossoming fruit trees and productive shared vegetable gardens when, as if on cue, two teenagers knock on the door to mumble good-naturedly about returning a borrowed table. When we talk about climate-resilient housing, it’s easy to get fixated on technology – and don’t get me wrong, the EcoVillage is an ecstasy of electric cars, double glazing and recycled water. Each week, the villagers only put out fifty rubbish-bins between 180 houses because of their sophisticated closed-loop waste management system. But resilience can’t rely on technology alone. Agreeing to share your bin with three other families relies on connection, cooperation, adaptability and kindness. And, as > 75

Above: The Beyond Today Development in Hayborough.

Tricia and Rick have so ably demonstrated in their Orchard Walk development, these principles can be purposefully designed. We just have to prioritise them in planning and investment models. Further down the Fleurieu, that’s exactly what the multi-award winning Beyond Today estate in Hayborough has done. Going well above government planning requirements, this family-owned company wanted to create a development that they’d want to live in themselves. As Beyond Today’s Adam Wright says, ‘Dad can’t bear the cheek-by-jowl developments that squeeze you in without any open space. We’ve found there’s no issue with blocks being smaller because we’ve introduced lots of wetlands, trees and open space and nearly every house backs onto a reserve. It’s so healthy to have landscape and life around us.’ Beyond Today’s model of sustainability isn’t only environmental. Adam says that when the 2008 Global Financial Crisis caused developers everywhere to fail, Beyond Today still managed to sell blocks. He says, ‘the sustainability and open space we offered was our only point of difference.’ In fact, Beyond Today has been so successful that it has become a national precedent for sustainable development. Alexandrina Council now uses Beyond Today as an exemplar for educating other developers, and Adam consults to developers all over Australia. There are several new developments currently proposed for the Fleurieu, and I ask Tricia, Rick and Adam what it would take for the residents of these new suburbs to experience the same positive outcomes as my friend Gabrielle. Any risk of utopianism is quashed by their sobering response. Rick speaks for all when he says bluntly, ‘If nothing else happens, the new developments will end up with lowest-common-denominator housing. Under our planning rules, there is no chance that they will be high quality – none at all.’ However, Rick says this could be readily fixed by governments insisting on a seven-star energy rating for new suburbs. ‘To achieve seven stars, you’ve got to orient the house north to achieve passive heating and cooling benefits,’ explains Rick. ‘This would then require the people designing the houses and subdividing the land to work together.’ Adam agrees, ‘it’s such a simple thing for a developer to make sure northerly solar access is possible. It does take a little more time and planning than a traditional cookie cutter approach, but we’ve shown 76

Above: Tricia O’Donovan and Rick Davies are co-owners of the company Living Not Beige. They have shown that you can build affordable and sustainable homes and still make a tidy profit.

there’s a market for it. If you offer someone a house with airflow, natural light and the ability to be bill free forever, for a 10% increase in the cost, most people will take it!’ He goes on to say, ‘the old adage that sustainable design is elitist and vastly more expensive is just not the case anymore. Building a sustainable house is now 20% less than it was twenty years ago because the costs of things like solar, double glazing and insulation have all come down significantly.’ Adam shares an experience with one of South Australia’s large volume developers, recalling, ‘this developer said they wanted to be more sustainable, but it was like trying to turn a super tanker. He used the analogy that the captain is turning the wheel but the ship takes a long time to change course.’ But the wheel won’t be turned by brute strength alone. ‘It takes someone being wholeheartedly committed and wanting to do things differently to make it happen,’ Adam continues. ‘The major developer who goes first on this will reap the highest benefits.’ And as Adam, Tricia and Rick have shown, our communities will benefit too. When developers prioritise building not just homes but also healthy communities, they create suburbs that are connected, climate resilient and affordable both now and into the future.

Join our new Reception class in 2021 A place to play and grow together as independent and active lear ners who are curious, creative and engaged in lear ning. Enrol now, a fresh horizon awaits. | tatachilla.sa.edu.au

Custom home builders specialising in architectural homes, custom homes, extensions, renovations and outdoor living spaces. 2020 HIA Highly Commended Award recipients. 4lifeconstructions.com.au 4lifeconstructions 4life_constructions 0408 894 178 matt@4lifeconstructions.com.au

Fly the Fleurieu

Cactus Canyon at Sellicks Beach looks spectacular at any time of day, but the rock formations take on a breathtaking glow in the golden hour that makes any photograph an absolute winner. fly-the-fleurieu.com

WILLUNGA WALDORF SENIOR SCHOOL

Inspiring a love of learning for life AC ADE M IC ART IS T IC ENGA GING

istory of Modern Art camp HDoes art have the power to change the world?

W I L L U N G A W AL D O R F S C H O O L

Playgroup to Class 12 · wws.sa.edu.au · Phone: 8556 2655 · Email: registrar@wws.sa.edu.au

270 Sand Road McLaren Vale | info@vineshedvenue.com.au | vineshedvenue.com.au |

VineShedVenue 79

Above right: Susi Benger’s summer cherry coloured handmade bathers made from recycled marine debris. Photo by Haley Renee. Left: Image courtesy of photographer Belinda Monck.

Wear and care on the coast Story by Hayley Taylor.

When a child is about to enter your life, all expecting mothers know that things will never be the same again. Parenthood is, among many things, a lens through which the world can be viewed. Nothing escapes this new lens, including fashion design which, like any other artistic pursuit, is an expression of perspective. So when Susi Benger, creator and designer of South Australian sustainable swimwear label Coco and Shy, became a mother, her approach to designing changed completely. ‘I definitely noticed with the birth of Lilou that I just had this amazing creative energy that I’d never had before and it was really motivating,’ says Susi. ‘My perspective shift from becoming a parent made me see everything differently,’ says Susi, ‘things like wearability, fit, and ease became more of a priority, and the look became more about incorporating functionality as well.’ Before her post-bub rebrand, Coco and Shy’s style opted for the structured, vintage styles of the ‘50s, but an effortless, soft and simple style emerged after Lilou’s birth. Susi speaks with a sweet-toned voice, and soft giggles intersperse her speech. It becomes clear as we talk, that the wholesome nature of her brand isn’t just an image, it’s an ethos. Raised in New Zealand, and now based on the south coast in Port Elliot with her family, Susi’s increasing environmental consciousness, and the environment’s place in the future of her children, has had a huge impact on her label. The recycled materials for her swimsuits are sourced from a company that pulls marine litter from the Mediterranean ocean. 80

It then takes these recovered nylon fishing nets and plastic bottles and turns them into fast-drying, hard-wearing textiles. ‘It can be so overwhelming when you think about it, just the scale of the issue, sometimes it feels like you wouldn’t be making a difference,’ says Susi. ‘I guess it’s similar to parenting and how it can be super overwhelming, but the small things you do each day can really make a difference.’ The styles in her line are sleek and monotone, the fabric is soft, and the supply chain is transparent. It maintains a minimalist aesthetic which permeates into Susi’s family life. ‘Being a parent, it’s really hard to be a minimalist. As much as you try, there’s so much that you sort of need,’ says Susi, ‘but I find it calming and it’s definitely a focus to be more purposeful with the things that we bring into our lives, and for the girls to appreciate the things we have.’ With daycare closures earlier in the year, Lilou and little sister Fio have been home more to help Mum with colour selections for the new summer line. While the latest range will echo Coco and Shy’s elegant simplicity, you can be sure it’s had the tick of approval from Lilou, who currently dresses to match her favourite pair of navy blue ‘cow-cow’ cowboy boots, gifted from Grandma. Susi hand-cuts every swimsuit, piecing them together with the help of three industrial sewing machines. Each run sees just enough to keep Port Elliot boutiques Mist and Rollo fully stocked. Snapping them up is the perfect reason to explore this gorgeous south coast community, but if you’re shopping in the city, Naomi Murrell on Ebenezer Place also holds some of Susi’s finest swimmers.

John Lacey’s Studio & Green Tank Gallery 41 Woodcone Rd, Mt Compass m: 0419 823 70 Open most days 11am - 5pm. www.johnlacey.com.au follow me @johnlaceyartist

Esplanade, Aldinga · (08) 7120 7119 · sicilypizza.com.au

lunch | dinner | accommodation functions | weddings takeaway picnics

Your trusted property advisor Contact Emma Nankivell Email: info@nankivellconveyancing.com.au Phone: 08 8552 2441 · Mobile: 0421 972 331 Web: nankivellconveyancing.com

7869 Main South Road, Second Valley

book via our website www.leonardsmill.com.au 81

PENINSULA PEOPLE

Ask a local

01. Emma Nankivell Nankivell Conveyancing, Owner/Registered Conveyancer Where do you go? To eat? To coffee? To drink? Nino’s is a favourite for pizza, pasta and people watching. I can’t go past a coffee from Ash and Jen at the Yilki Store. Stopping in at Harvest the Fleurieu on a drive to Adelaide. Where do you shop? Elliot and Me, Living by Design, Your Beauty Spot, The Office Shop, De Lorenzo Hair. What was the best thing about 2020? The many advances in electronic conveyancing, making for a more secure and efficient way of conveyancing and growing my business to employ more local staff. What are you looking forward to in 2021? Spending holidays caravanning around SA with my family and the super exciting news that I’m expanding my business. Watch this space! Uniquely Fleurieu? A road trip from Encounter Bay to Second Valley – amazing countryside and beautiful views. A good drop? An old favourite, Wirra Wirra Church Block. I’d like to try? I’m busting to get over to KI to explore the wonders of the island. 02. Rebecca Paul Fleurieu Counselling & Wellness Co, Owner and Counsellor

Where do you go? To eat? To coffee? To drink? Salopian Inn – the prawn dumplings and the icecream sandwich are the bomb. Can’t go past the smiley girls at Tealicious. KI Spirits Mulberry Gin – first tasted it at the Salopian Inn and fell in love! Where do you shop? It’s always easy to find something divine at the Sage House in Aldinga, I especially love their Willow & Evie candles. What was the best thing about 2020? The immense gratitude for all the small things like hugs, having coffee with a friend and kids going to school! What are you looking forward to in 2021? Opening and operating our beautiful new practice in Moana. Uniquely Fleurieu? Surfing at Middleton Beach on a warm sunny day followed by brunch at Motherduck Cafe. A good drop? Everything from the lovelies at Samson Tall but particularly the 2017 Grenache. I’d like to try? Down the Rabbit Hole looks fun – just waiting for a warm sunny day.

03. Jill Dowd Betta Quality Curtains & Blinds Where do you go? To eat? To coffee? To drink? Hill Street Yoga at Port Elliot. Eat at Thunderbird Kitchen at Port Elliot. The Causeway Café for coffee, great service always with a smile. Drinks on the front deck at The Wait. Where do you shop? Living By Design in Victor Harbor, flowers from Botanical Love and raw bulk wholefoods from Veg Out. What was the best thing about 2020? Moving into our newly built home on Valentine’s Day. What are you looking forward to in 2021? More beach walks, premiership flags to the Encounter Bay Eagles and the Adelaide Crows. Supporting the awesome hospitality industry on the Fleurieu. Uniquely Fleurieu? The walk across and around Granite Island with a treat at the end ... a throwback from my childhood! A good drop? Lake Breeze Bernoota. I’d like to try? Exploring more of Deep Creek Conservation Park. 04. Rohan Grantham Owner/operator, Billy Goat Brick & Stone Where do you go? To eat? For coffee? To drink? We love to go to One Paddock Winery in Currency Creek for lunch. I can’t go past Heritage Bakery Goolwa for a coffee and a pepper steak pie. We love taking the dog for a walk on a Sunday morning to the Goolwa Farmers Market – fresh fruit and veg and awesome egg and bacon rolls. What was the best thing about 2020? 2020 has had a real family focus, appreciating the simple things in life. What are you looking forward to in 2021? More family adventures and exciting work projects! Uniquely Fleurieu? I like taking friends from out of town for a swim at the Bluff Beach and Petrel Cove in Victor Harbor. A good drop? Our favourite wine hands down is the shiraz from Perrini Estate, out the back of Meadows not far from Kuitpo Forest. I’d like to try? I’d like to keep exploring the Fleurieu, there’s always more hidden gems, beaches, bush, products, produce and boutique eateries.

05. Lucy Koch Willunga Waldorf School, High School English Teacher

Where do you go? To eat? To coffee? To drink? For a casual meal, The Victory or the McLaren Vale Hotel. For something a bit special, The Star of Greece or The Currant Shed. Where do you shop? I love Gorgeous Soles, or for alterations or dress-making, She Sews. For gifts, I always seem to find something at Fleurieu Arthouse or The Organic Store. I live in McLaren Vale and always shop very locally. What was the best thing about 2020? My students were amazing this year and I always looked forward to my classes with them. As a parent, saying goodbye to school fees when my younger son graduated from school. What are you looking forward to in 2021? Seeing a bit more of Australia. Uniquely Fleurieu? The Victory Hotel – everytime! If I can arrive from the south, coming down Main South Road with those spectacular views of the gulf, even better. A good drop? I enjoy a glass of Maxwell’s Little Demon Envious Sparkling NV. I’d like to try? Little Wolf Osteria at Mitolo Wines.

06. Paul & Heather Samson Tall Winery, Owners

Where do you go? To eat? To coffee? To drink? Love - Fall from Grace to try something new. The Little Rickshaw for great food. Coffee – De Rose at Willunga and Mullygrub, McLaren Vale. Love a drink on the wall at The Victory. Where do you shop? Willunga Farmers Market, McLaren Vale Organics, Gorgeous Souls for a bit of retail therapy. What was the best thing about 2020? We really enjoyed the family time during lock down, and then the positive smiling patrons coming through our doors after we opened up. What are you looking forward to in 2021? Lots of grapes. Uniquely Fleurieu? The Victory Hotel, Willunga Farmers Market and of course our stunning beaches. A good drop? Geddes. I’d like to try? Maxwell Restaurant.

07. Naomi Hughes Sage House, Sage Loft, Owner

Where do you go? To eat? To coffee? To drink? To eat – The Salopian Inn, Sicily Mare. Coffee – Maxwell’s Grocery, Goodness Coffee. Where do you shop? Miss Gladys on Sea, The Sound of White. What was the best thing about 2020? Getting a real felt sense of the support our community offers, both for each other and for small local businesses. What are you looking forward to in 2021? The completion of Old Coach Road, and that whole hub becoming a well known, beautiful and sought after destination for tourists and locals alike. Uniquely Fleurieu? Port Willunga and Aldinga beaches, the most stunning beaches on the coast, and Pearl Restaurant at Aldinga Beach. A good drop? Anything by Battle of Bosworth. I’d like to try? Down the Rabbit Hole Winery and Big Easy Radio are the next two on my list!.

08. Matt Cates Director and Owner of 4Life Constructions Where do you go? To eat? To coffee? To drink? Eat – I love a Vietnamese roll from Nha Trang in Victor Harbor. Coffee – Qahwa is our number one choice for coffee on the South Coast and my little one loves the sandpit. Drink/eat – Beach House Café at Encounter Bay for drinks and dinner. Where do you shop? I’m a keen surfer so I frequently visit Port Elliot Surf Shop or Big Surf at Middleton. What was the best thing about 2020? Receiving a commendation at the recent HIA Housing, Kitchen and Bathroom Awards for a build we completed at Inman Valley. What are you looking forward to in 2021? 4Life Constructions has some amazing custom home projects commencing in 2021 which will keep me and the team extremely busy. I’m also looking forward to camping in SA with the family. Uniquely Fleurieu? We love the Wharf Barrel Shed with its unique wharf-front location and relaxed atmosphere. A good drop? Cannot recommend Charlotte Dalton Wines in Port Elliot highly enough. All of our handover baskets have a bottle or two featured for our clients to try. I’d like to try? We’ve actually booked an off-grid tiny house getaway through CABN early next year near the Kuitpo forest that I’m really looking forward to experiencing with my family. 83

Chapter.

Ingoldby Road, McLaren Flat SA

currantshed.com.au |

206 Port Road, Aldinga

Open from 5 to 9pm Fridays • 11 to 3pm Sat-Sun. Other times by appointment. Tasting Classes • WSET and other wine courses available. Shop1/165 Main Rd McLaren Vale 08 83237405 · gorgeoussoles.com.au

Online wine sales: www.fallfromgrace.com.au T: 08 8556 2590 E: gill@fallfromgrace.com.au

Three of Mclaren Vale’s most exciting producers under the same roof. Three of Mclaren Vale’s most exciting producers under the same roof.

ross the road Now offering takeaway ac r. from Nino’s Victor Harbo

High quality relaxed dining.

Serving visitors and locals alike for more than 40 years. Coffee, quality cakes, gelati and full al a carte lunch, dinner and pizza menu. 148 McMurtrie Rd, McLaren Vale sherrahwines.com.au · linoramble.com.au · bondarwines.com.au

17 Albert Place Victor Harbor (opposite Crown Hotel) Ph 8552 3501 • Open 7 days 5.00pm till late.

www.ninoscafe.com.au

Restaurant . Bar . Bottle Shop Local Wines & Spirits .-Live Music Takeaway Meals . Open 7 Days 27 High St, Strathalbyn (08)8536 2021

COMMERCIAL HOTEL Strathalbyn

COMMERCIALHOTELStrathalbyn

FRESH DESTINATIONS

Fresh destinations

Summer’s the perfect time to find new favourites on the Fleurieu. Story by Poppy Fitzpatrick.

Above left: Quality vintage and pre-loved clothing at Capricornia. Above right: Focusing on taste and nutrition, Jetty Juice will pump out fresh, raw concoctions to quench the summer’s thirsts. Photo by Loki Hall.

Capricornia 12 High St, Willunga There’s nothing quite like the thrill of scoring a good second-hand find. For self-confessed vintage addict Ellie, there’s a fascinating story to unveil behind every cut, pattern, material and detail; each piece sending her on a mini walk through history. Wanting to share this adventure of discovery with others, while encouraging an ethical approach to fashion, Ellie created Capricornia. With eight years of vintage knowledge behind her and a keen eye for quality, she decided to open a shop in Willunga. Filled with a wide selection of vintage and preloved clothing, as well as some impressive feature furniture pieces, Ellie hopes she can change the sometimes gaudy reputation that can come with vintage items. With a constant bombardment of fast fashion, Capricornia offers the perfect alternative to slow down and find classic and unique pieces, while doing your bit for the environment in the process. @capricorniaSA

Jetty Juice 42 North Terrace, Port Elliot Operating the Jetty Food Store in Port Elliot since January 2020, owners Jarrod and Veena have become well acquainted with the hard working and dedicated Fleurieu farmers providing quality produce to the region. Sourcing the freshest local organic fruit and veg, the store has become a community hub of connection and nourishment. Six months in, the idea for Jetty Juice was born with a simple mission in mind: to help customers to feel good about themselves by embracing healthy living. Focusing on taste and nutrition, Jetty Juice will pump out fresh, raw concoctions including old favourites as well as a few fun new additions with names like Jump off the Jetty, Pina Colada and Black Lemonade. With early plans to hop into some crisp, locally brewed ales and lagers too, it seems we’ve found the best place to quench any summer thirst.

The indomitable spirit of Fleurieu entrepreneurs has continued to blaze a trail of optimism throughout our region, even in this most unsettling of years. Celebrate the tenacity and passion of local business people by supporting these new ventures safely and responsibly this summer.

Above left: Palomino Sound Recording will produce everything from music to voice recordings, with plans to team up with neighbouring businesses to host live music in the future. Photo by Cath Leo. Above right: Sam and Billy from Dough & Co. Mobile wood-oven pizza anyone? Photo by Loki Hall.

Palomino Sound Recording & Palomino Nights Myponga Tristen Bird has had a deep fascination for sound recording ever since he was a child, with a vision to one day create his own recording space. As a recording artist himself, Tristen understands the importance of atmosphere for creativity; a delicate balance between helping a musician feel comfortable, while still challenged to perform their best. With family ties to the Fleurieu region, and an appreciation for the sanctuary that regional recording studios can facilitate, Tristen has begun setting up in the former dairy building in Myponga. The history of the building, as well as the range of old and new recording equipment will make the studio something of a living museum. Maintaining a strong focus on fostering emerging talent, the studio will produce everything from music to voice recordings, with plans to team up with neighbouring businesses to host live music in the future. palominosoundrecorders.com

Dough & Co Mobile From Sam Basham – an apprentice of Victor Harbor hospitality institution, Nino’s – and Billy Dohnt of BillyDohnt Does catering, comes mobile wood oven pizza catering service Dough & Co. Offering authentic Italian-style wood-oven pizzas, alongside an added aperitivo style canapé menu, the pair focus on ‘keeping it simple, just like the Italians’ while showing off the best local ingredients. Sam and Billy both live on the Fleurieu, catering at events for many passionate locals as well as those that call the region their second home. But for those who live further afield, the mobile business owners are happy to bring their culinary delights straight to you. billydohntdoes.com.au >

FRESH DESTINATIONS

Above left: Your hosts Kate and Simon at the newly named High Street Inn, Strathalbyn. Above right: Maison de Moon offers end-to-end functions and experiences in an idyllic country setting.

High Street Inn 35 High St, Strathalbyn Closing the doors of popular Strathalbyn restaurant The Olfactory Inn late last year, co-owner Simon Burr had grown fond of the former residential building. His attachment to the space and the hospitality industry saw Simon purchase the building, without any concrete plans for his next move. As COVID-19 began closing borders, Simon and his partner Kate Hanson saw the opportunity for a cosy bed and breakfast escape in their own state, conveniently located on the High Street. The pair have since converted the dining areas into three double bedrooms, with plush king-sized beds. The BnB includes a cozy bar area with an open fireplace and an outdoor table to enjoy lazy brunches in the sunshine. The existing commercial kitchen will allow for intimate hosted dinner parties, or for guests to try their own hand as master chefs during their stay. The pair hope the newest incarnation of the building will become a place for guests to relax and recharge, while enjoying the many wonders of the surrounding region.

Maison de Moon Clarendon After many years visiting the Fleurieu as a holiday destination, Irene Moon and her husband had long awaited the opportunity to find a place of their own in the countryside. The pair finally found their dream location in Clarendon, purchasing the property from dear family friends to offer an end-to-end function experience while settling into the welcoming community. With 18 years of practice hosting and styling numerous events at some of Adelaide’s most beautiful venues, the pair have a clear vision for Maison de Moon: to provide a picturesque setting where guests can create precious memories. When couples host their special day on the property, they will also have the option to rent the whole French-style country home for themselves and their loved ones to enjoy. Maison de Moon can provide complete event management, and also offer decadent high tea experiences with all the delicious trimmings. maisondemoon.com.au

Above left: Head to Sicily Artisan Gelato this summer and enjoy a breathtaking stroll of the esplanade. Above right: The gorgeous new Barrel Room Function Centre at Lake Breeze.

Sicily Artisan Gelato 106 Esplanade, Aldinga Beach After firing up the ovens earlier this year, Sicily Mare Pizza has received great local praise for their delicious Sicilian-style pizzas. Wanting to bring the most authentic experience of Sicilian culture to Aldinga, owner Cono Gorgone leapt at the chance to add delicious handmade gelato to the space next door. Originally wanting to import Italian gelato, Cono soon realised his skills inherited from cousins back home, as well as some impressive gelato connoisseurs here in Australia, meant he was fully equipped to make his own. Sourcing only the best artisan ingredients from Italy, Cono creates the most authentic gelato possible. His pistachios are imported from Bronte, a village on Mt Etna in Sicily, which grows the best pistachios in the world, still manually picked using traditional methods. A range of gourmet flavours are available, with a prickly pear variation on its way, as well as a few vegan options. With the salty air, the smell of the wood oven and a generous helping of creamy gelato, we might just be able to convince ourselves we’ve escaped to a European summer. sicilypizza.com.au

Lake Breeze Event Space 319 Step Rd, Langhorne Creek For the last six years, Lake Breeze have opened their doors for guests to enjoy their award-winning wines, grab a bite to eat and celebrate special occasions among the vines. In October, Lake Breeze unveiled their brand new Barrel Room Function Centre, which will expand their restaurant and cellar door capabilities, while creating a combined indoor and outdoor events space for up to 300 guests. The contemporary expansion opens up to panoramic views of the surrounding vines and ancient river redgums while maintaining the character of the original cellar door, which used to be a hay shed. Keeping the property within the family since the 1850s, the Lake Breeze team can’t wait to welcome more celebrations into their home – where they treat every special function as if it’s their own. lakebreeze.com.au >

FRESH DESTINATIONS

Above left: The charming shared cellar door of small producers Sherrah, Bondar and Lino Ramble. Above right: Lucy Potter at the 100 % vegan Village Groove Café.

Sherrah, Bondar and Lino Ramble Wines 148 McMurtrie Road, McLaren Vale Fitting a few cellar door visits into one day is never a far stretch in McLaren Vale – but what if those few wineries were under just one roof? Purchasing and renovating a beautiful 19th century stone cottage, Rae and Drew Noon wanted to create an affordable home for new producers to show off their signature styles to the public. Sherrah, Bondar and Lino Ramble wines were all excited to collaborate, officially opening their shared door in early October to collectively offer over thirty different wines. All three labels produce small batch, handmade wines with unique characteristics, which can be tasted in their individual cellar-door-rooms. After you’ve had your fill in each, there’s plenty of space in the outdoor area to enjoy a bottle of your favourite drop. Bookings for seated tastings can be made through each individual winery’s website. sherrahwines.com.au, bondarwines.com.au, linoramble.com.au

The Village Groove Café Lot 10A/173 Port Rd, Aldinga With a combined love of hospitality, baking and veganism, Lucy Potter envisaged a one-stop-shop for all three in the Aldinga Arts EcoVillage. At only 22 years of age, Lucy brought her dream to life, opening The Village Groove Café in August this year. The café offers a 100 percent vegan menu including smoothies, wraps, bruschetta, sweets and more – all against the backdrop of a groovy ‘70s style interior. Fitting in with the sustainable ethos of the surrounding community, Lucy has been welcomed into the village with open arms. By providing a delicious and affordable menu, she hopes she can make living a vegan lifestyle more accessible and convenient for all. Currently open Thursday through Monday, Lucy hopes to soon be operating seven days and begin taking cake and catering orders. @thevillagegroovecafe

Above left: At Bev’s Remnant House you will find an assortment of beautiful remnant upholstery, craft and clothing fabrics. Above right: The Hub in Goolwa provides facilities including meeting rooms, hot desks, training facilities, and business training programs.

Bev’s Remnant House 30 High Street, Willunga Working for a number of years as an interior architect, Bev MacInnes was disheartened by the amount of waste produced in the soft furnishing industry. In such a trend-orientated market, many of the materials have a short life; colours and designs change and fabrics are discontinued yearly. Rather than seeing such beautiful fabrics end up in landfill, she decided to purchase the remnants at a discounted price and give them a second life. Since opening Bev’s Remnant House in Sydney eleven years ago, Bev has connected countless customers with a range of designer fabrics and makers to transform their choice of material into custom lampshades, curtains, blinds, cushions and more. After some time spent working in Adelaide, Bev knew her heart belonged to the Fleurieu and that she’d eventually return to the area. Between the beach and the vines, she has now opened a new store on Willunga High Street. No matter the vision for a project, Bev ensures each and every piece of fabric is used up – whether it be in the form of a door stop or makeup bag, it’s nice to know each and every square will find a home. bevsremnanthouse.com.au

The Hub 12 Cadell Street, Goolwa The Alexandrina Council believe that the most valuable asset of their local economy is the people and community. In order for their community to learn and thrive, the council has created a common space in Goolwa for business people to connect and collaborate. The Hub provides facilities including meeting rooms, hot desks, training facilities, and business training programs. For those who work from home, remote workers, or businesses with visiting clients, The Hub can provide a comfortable and professional meeting place at an affordable price. A membership provides access to facilities, the opportunity to network with like-minded business people and gain access to support from the Business Alexandrina team. By nurturing a strong business community, Alexandrina Council hope the broader community can flourish as a result. thebusinesshub.spaces.nexudus.com/en/ >

FRESH DESTINATIONS

Above left: Hammer ‘N’ Tongs – a delicious union of food and drink on Commercial Road in Strathalbyn. Above right: Holly and Nigel in their art deco building, which is currently being transformed into ‘Valley of Yore’.

Hammer ‘N’ Tongs 39 Commercial Rd, Strathalbyn The delicious union of food and wine can be transformed into an art form when paired with the right atmosphere. When the old Commonwealth Bank building in Strathalbyn came up for grabs, Maurice Behan knew he’d found the right place to try his own hand at creating such a sensory harmony. After over a year of renovations, Hammer ‘N’ Tongs opened its doors in the town centre to offer a relaxed, comfortable meeting place to share a bite, beverage and a chat with mates. Hammer ‘N’ Tongs is open daily, serving up caféstyle breakfast, lunch, coffee and nibbles all day. Friday and Saturday evenings can be kicked off with an array of spirits, beers and wines, accompanied by tapas and Italian-style pizzas. With a strong focus on creating a positive work environment, the entire experience is sure to be topped off with some very happy staff, too. hammerntongsstrath.com

Valley of Yore Myponga Holly, an integral part of the Fleurieu Living team, and her partner Nigel Wyatt moved to the Fleurieu five years ago, sinking their roots into Myponga with their boys Emerson and Abel. Regularly driving past an empty, rustic part of the old Myponga Cheese Factory building, the family envisioned a welcoming and relaxing space to connect, relax and briefly escape from the pressures of life. This cafe and concept store opening in summer is an ode to Nigel’s late father Ralphie Wyatt, as well as a nod to ye olde community values and sentiment. The Valley of Yore will serve specialty Degroot coffee, locally sourced produce, and a curated range of well-crafted products, art and keepsakes. Whether popping in to break up the drive to Kangaroo Island, after a walk around the reservoir, or as a meeting point to catch up with loved ones, the Wyatts hope visitors, regulars and children alike will find an unexpected oasis. @valleyofyore

DON’T JUST GET BETTER, STAY WELL. What we do today will shape the way we live tomorrow.

Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine | Lez Shiell & Lori-Ellen Grant deepwatermedicine.com.au | Willunga (08) 8323 9844

Traditional timber framing specialists that can skillfully and sustainably build your home from milling right through to joinery.

P R O U D LY C R A F T E D B E S P O K E B U I L D I N G W O R K S 0498 395 285 · @35southbuildingco www.35southbuildingco.com.au

SAME BUT DIFFERENT

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TOURISM AND LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY commissions · stock photos · workshops t. 0402 716 406 e. heidi@heidiwho.com w. heidiwho.com facebook / instagram / heidiwhophotos

17 HIGH ST WILLUNGA SA 93

Tea and roses Story by Kate Le Gallez. Photography by Jason Porter.

Life unfolds in a series of decisions. There’s the daily minutiae of which shoes to wear (the flats) to whether there’s time to sneak in another coffee (always). Then there’s the big things, like who we choose to spend our lives with and what we pursue professionally. Some people examine every detail of a decision before committing. Others dive in, the details trailing along in their wake, there to be sorted through later. Mandy de Rose is most certainly the latter. The creator of looseleaf tea company The Dandy Tea Co., and the newly re-branded Willunga café, de Rose Kitchen, has crafted her dream job through a willingness to take a chance and a respect for the people and producers that make up her community. Mandy grew up in a family of fruit growers in the Riverland, moving to Adelaide after high school. At eighteen, she’d just met a man named Dan de Rose who would eventually become her husband and would lead her towards the Fleurieu, where he’d grown up. But then, just a week after they met and well before this happy ending was a certainty, Mandy found out she needed major hip surgery. Dan naturally suggested they move in together. ‘It was like logic to him to go, ‘oh, we should just move in and then I can look after you’,’ laughs Mandy. ‘So that’s what we did. And everyone thought we were crazy. And that was, this is typical impulsive me. But we showed them.’ The hip surgery didn’t only accelerate Mandy and Dan’s relationship, it also set Mandy on a new professional path. The surgery caused her stomach and bowel to shut down and kept her in hospital for almost six months. No longer able to drink coffee, she tried tea, but found that the preservatives, dyes and flavourings that big tea brands used made her sick. And so she made her next impulsive and ultimately life-changing decision – she decided to make her own. Now living in Port Willunga, Mandy was working at Homegrain Bakery and crafting teas on the side, working with seasonal ingredients. Homegrain caught wind of her tea experiments and became her first stockist. Eight years and around eighty stockists later, Mandy has continued to heed the early lessons she learned. She works with small batches (no preservatives) and with a certified organic tea importer and local producers (no flavourings, no dyes). ‘I think just treating the produce with respect is a big one and I made it a really big point from the get go,’ she says. ‘And it’s the same in here. If it’s not seasonal, then we might say no, so our menu is always subject to change and I love having that conversation.’ ‘Here’ is de Rose Kitchen, and it’s the result of impulsive, lifechanging decision number three. Mandy began working in the iconic 1860s building on Willunga’s High Street when it was still Three

Previous page: Over the holidays Hither & Yon and de Rose Kitchen have joined forces to offer the Christmas Grazing Box with either a red or rosé. Above: Mandy and Dan de Rose.

Monkeys. An unfortunate twist of fate for the then owner meant the business was up for sale in late 2017. Mandy messaged Dan: ‘we should buy it.’ She was joking, but Dan’s typically supportive response was ‘sure.’ And suddenly it became a possibility. ‘I’m the creative impulsive one and he’s the black and white straight down the line one, much more practical,’ says Mandy. ‘I’ve never had to ask for permission to do anything, but he’s always just kind of given really good advice.’ Between them, they worked out the details and took over in January 2018. The evolution from Three Monkeys to de Rose Kitchen has been gentle, respectful of the cafe’s existing customer base. Mandy shifted to a more casual, seasonal menu early on, but held back on other, more substantial changes like renovations and the new name. But it’s when she talks about how she wants both her customers and staff to feel, that hints at her grander vision. ‘We want people to feel like they’re coming to our house for a coffee,’ says Mandy. ‘It’s our connection with the customers that creates the community.’ She attributes this sense of hospitality to her nanna. ‘Their house was always open, and there was always apricot slice or scones ready for unexpected guests,’ she tells me. At the end of each day, Mandy sits on the step in the middle of the café, surveying all that’s happened so far; the decisions made and those yet to come. ‘I can’t believe I get to do what I do for a living. I get to come to work and hang out with all my friends, meet amazing producers and people, be creative and have fun,’ she says. ‘We love Willunga, our community and I love my job. How lucky am I?’. 95

All well and good Six new Fleurieu businesses committed to keeping you on track and feeling your best.

ALDINGA PHYSIOTHERAPY AND REHAB Aldinga

FLEURIEU COUNSELLING AND WELLNESS Aldinga

Aldinga Physio and Rehab provides a personalised, locally owned service offering appointments in clinic and within client’s homes from 8am-7pm daily. Cameron and the team can provide rehab post orthopaedic surgery, sporting injuries, or for disabilities, as well as treatment to manage common aches and pains like lower back, knees, neck or headaches. Long appointments and genuine care for each client help to take your treatment further. Bookings via phone or online. aldingaphysiotherapy.com (08) 8257 9177

Trained counsellors with over twenty years’ experience, Rebecca and Simon wanted to create a hub for professional, experienced mental health practitioners on the Fleurieu. The result is Fleurieu Counselling and Wellness – a place that people can rely on for expertise and support for their mental health and wellbeing when they need it. Their professional and down-to-earth team offers services for teens, women, men, and couples from their newly renovated practice in Moana. fleurieucounsellingandwellness.com 0472 633 343

HARMONISED HEALTH Willunga Naturopath Morgan (BHSc Naturopathy) is passionate about supporting and educating people to reach their optimal health in all aspects including mental, emotional and physical health. Her approach focuses on treating the causes of disease rather than symptomatic relief. Morgan offers clinical naturopathic consultation with a warm, client focused approach. She incorporates a range of modalities into her client’s treatment plans, including diet and lifestyle advice, herbal medicine, nutritional supplementation, flower essence and hydrotherapy. harmonisedhealth.com.au 0423 964 606

Yvette Victoria BEAUTY

HILL STREET YOGA Port Elliot Hill Street Yoga studio space was created intentionally to feel inviting, calm, clear, grounded and loved – a space where everyone feels welcome. Offering a range of yoga classes from yin yoga, hatha flow, restorative nourish class, yin~hatha flow, as well as sound bath-yoga healing and ‘Girls Night Yin’ events. There is a yoga class to suit everybody – just reach out if you’re not sure which class will suit you, we’d love to help. @hill_street_yoga 0490 782 044

P.E. PILATES Port Elliot P.E. Pilates is a studio opening in the heart of Port Elliot. The studio ethos is all about finding enjoyment in exercise. Come for the sweaty classes, stay for the great playlists and experienced instructors. Reformer pilates classes will be fun and fast-paced, but always safe and inclusive. Other classes will include mat pilates, yogalates, barre and retro aerobics. We’re peachy keen to meet everyone in December 2020! pepilates.com.au

STUDIO

YVETTE VICTORIA BEAUTY STUDIO Aldinga Beach Yvette has created a nurturing space to live out her passion for helping women to feel confident and beautiful in their own skin. This boutique beauty studio in the heart of Aldinga Beach provides a professional range of beauty services and products including facial treatments and makeup, waxing and tinting, lash lifts, massage and pedicures. Yvette aims to help women feel supported with their selfcare routine in a relaxing environment. instagram.com/yvettevictoria_beautystudio facebook.com/YvetteVictoriaBeautyStudio 0422 103 346

BOOKS & WORDS

Sizzling summer book reviews by Mark Laurie of South Seas Books, Port Elliot.

the smelting of tin golliwog badges in Malaya. With the case comes much needed funding, along with news of the mother he had long thought dead and a chance to track her down. With Jenny, his plucky and resourceful new wife beside him, Jack sets sail for the East, travelling to Singapore and Siam in search of Curtis, his past and some hope for a future. Here is an old-fashioned adventure story, studded with irony and absurd humour, tiptoeing along the line of the real and the fanciful and evoking fond memories of RM Ballantyne, Agatha Christie, PG Wodehouse and Tomkinson’s Schooldays. Its familiarity, even as it surprises and astonishes, is a perfect antidote to troubled times.

by Michel Bussi Published by Weidenfeld & Nicolson (an imprint of Hachette) ISBN 9781474601832 $32.99

by Malcolm Pryce Published by Bloomsbury Publishing ISBN 978140889529 $29.99

Caught in the depths of a dismal winter, the setting is lovingly and familiarly described, imbuing the book with a powerful sense of place and enhancing its literary qualities and thematic approach. It is the sort of ‘entertainment’ that recalls Graham Greene, with the thrills and intrigue at the surface more than the core. A twisting storyline keeps the pages turning but at its heart this is a work about the human condition: assessing points of interaction between our fortunes, our motives and our pasts which form ‘the loose strands out of which any life is stitched.’

Never Forget

The Corpse in the Garden of Perfect Brightness

It’s 1948 and Jack Wenlock’s young life appears to be following the unhappy trajectory of the British Empire which produced him, the latter never having been the same since the silver roast beef trolley was buried at the Singapore Golf Club, ahead of the advancing Japanese. A railway detective in the age of steam, Jack is dismissed when the railways are nationalised, leaving him to face a precarious financial position while avoiding the murderous Room 42, a shadowy organisation bent on his demise. Fortunately, Jack is contacted by a countess with a brief to track her errant son Curtis, said to be suffering from ‘late-flowering Bohemianism’ in the Orient having left a successful position managing

attended and where he has now enrolled his son, he strikes up a series of relationships with members of the international elite who make up its parental cohort. The potential discovery by one of their number, an Iranian, of physics’ holy grail agitates their lives and a quiet, but ruthless struggle to capture his discovery ensues. Dyer finds himself unwittingly involved: ‘a bit player caught, for the briefest of flashes, cringing in the headlights of a juggernaut.’

The Sandpit by Nicholas Shakespeare Published by Harvill Secker ISBN 9781787301764 $32.99 A slow-burning philosophical thriller set among Oxford’s libraries and learning. Former journalist John Dyer has returned to research and write a book on Brazil, where he had lived and worked and established a family. At the exclusive private school he

Themes of passion and revenge are explored in this work of crime fiction set on Normandy’s windswept coast. An antidote to the cool mercilessness of Scandinoir, its storyline presses up against the outer limits of the genre, brimming with tantalising intrigues, alluring women and outrageous twists. Little wonder the police are confounded. No stranger to Camus’ famous novel, the author has selected a disabled and victimised Arab youth as the book’s narrator and chief protagonist. Jamal Salaoui dreams of becoming the first disabled athlete to run an ultra-marathon. Training one morning, he fatefully encounters an obviously distressed girl on the cliff face who, despite his efforts to help her, plunges to the cobbled beach below. A natural suspect in the foul play and fatefully destined to poor decision-making

borne of his treatment by others in the past, he finds himself drawn into a decade old mystery with impossible parallels. Desperately trying to find the solution that will clear him of both crimes, Jamal must evade the police, crusading relatives and his own flawed memories. Well drawn and developed characters combine with a strong sense of place and time to render highly entertaining and effortless reading from a fabulously complex plot.

Filled with brash ‘wise-guy’ dialogue, littlerestrained violence and directed by a wildly spinning moral compass, this is a hypermacho world in which only a certain type can survive, much less prosper. The action is exhaustingly brisk; there is nothing cosy about the lives lived here or the crimes they commit. Denny Malone (from Irish stock, naturally) is a task force leader operating on the edge of the city’s defences, where lives, black or otherwise, don’t really matter. A hero, the castle he has built begins to crumble under its own weight of corruption, hubris and greed, dragging all that he knows and loves down with it. Crackling, gritty entertainment as always, and a cautionary tale of police lives in the big city where survival is the order of each day.

very cloistered and insular group of students and academics at Columbia University in New York, centred around its narrator Nell, a thirty-year-old whose doctoral botany studies on poisonous plants have just been terminated. Among New York City’s teeming millions, we meet only the teacher she worships, her former boyfriend, her best friend and a small group of others, as if they had been placed under her microscope lens, scrutinised as both individuals and types. Densely written as a devotional confession to her mentor whom she loves unrequitedly, its pages are packed with personal and social observations delivered in tones ranging from archly witty, through blandly declamatory to deeply poignant. Observe ‘we were young and now we’re idiots’ as a succinct identification of the gracelessness of ageing, while also considering ‘all of the order and intention and menace’ inherent in spreadsheets. While the style tips over at times to threaten the book’s coherence, its quest for beauty and joy in rather infertile ground is enjoyable and it is written in a startling, memorable voice. It will charm in all of its quiet weirdness.

The Force by Don Winslow Published by HarperCollins ISBN 9781460753576 $24.99 Celebrated crime writer, Don Winslow, has moved from west coast surf noir to the Big Apple to write the quintessential cop novel. Centred around a special task force unit within the NYPD, it explores the culture of this particular thin blue line and the even thinner line defining right from wrong in a North Manhattan maelstrom of drugs, gangs, guns, money and influence.

Hex by Rebecca Dinerstein Knight Published by Faber & Faber ISBN 9781526622310 $23.99 This short, offbeat, wildly inventive book examines lives and relationships among a 99

Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize Preview Exhibition – Waterhouse by the Sea Continuing through Sunday 3 January at the Strand Gallery, 41 The Strand, Port Elliot. Throughout summer, locals and visitors to the Strand Gallery in Port Elliot will have the rare opportunity to view ‘Waterhouse by the Sea’ – a unique selection of works by previous finalists of the Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize. This collection (owned by the South Australian Museum) will be showcased alongside some of the current work of past finalists.

It also presents an opportunity to see the early work of emerging artists, some of whom have gone on to become nationally recognised painters and sculptors. The Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize was first exhibited in 2003 and commemorates the birth of the SA Museum’s first curator, Frederick George Waterhouse. The biennial prize is an opportunity for artists to investigate the world around them and present their perspectives on natural science. It encourages artists to make a statement about the scientific issues facing our planet and offers a valuable platform for them to contribute to the environmental debate. Over the years, the competition has become a much loved fixture on the arts calendar. The stunning diversity and colour showcased,

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Page left: An Extraordinary Stillness by Ellie Noir. Oil on linen. Above left: Polarity by Chris Summer. Above right: Clouds by Jane Price. Bottom left: Detail of Cocky’s Tongue by Scott Hartshorne. Above right: Species by Peter Syndicas.

as well as the scientific messages behind the high-calibre artworks, attracts visitors who love to see science through the boundless imagination of the talented artists. It continues to play a significant role in provoking debate about art and science to encourage a greater understanding of our world. ‘For me, the Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize holds a special place in my calendar. We are very privileged to have some of the acquired works from the South Australian Museum at the Strand Gallery for December for our own Fleurieu exhibition ‘Waterhouse by the Sea’. I have observed in my role as a gallery owner and Board member of the Museum’s Foundation how this prestigious and highly competitive art prize can change artists’ lives and validate their work and practice. The main 2020 exhibition opening on December 11 will

be a celebration after a bleak year when there has been a significant impact on arts and culture in our region,’ says Strand Gallery owner, Sonya Hender. In the lead-up to this year’s Waterhouse Prize exhibition at the SA Museum, the Strand Gallery exhibition will celebrate this beautiful collection – rarely available for public display. The exhibition is open from 10am – 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays from Saturday 14 November to Sunday 3 January at the Strand Gallery, 41 The Strand, Port Elliot.

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Taken an amazing photo on the Fleurieu lately? Tag us on Instagram and you could see your handiwork in print. Each issue we’ll choose an image to publish right here in the pages of FLM. @fleurieulivingmagazine This photo, taken at Port Noarlunga, was submitted by Lee: @coastal.wings

visitalexandrina.com.au

Wander Discover Enjoy

Visit Our Local Alexandrina to explore and shop the wide range of local businesses and dining experiences in the region.

ourlocalalexandrina.com.au

Local artist Eileen Lubiana showcases McLaren Vale cellar doors in a creative calendar for 2021. To view Eileen’s work and purchase a calendar go to artwinecalendar.com

Remnant upholstery fabrics, cushions, quilts, lampshades and “fabric things” Wed – Sat from 10am to 5pm 30 High Street Willunga · Phone 0419 411 920

Kangaroo Island Premium Wines and Cellar Door Open Daily 11 am to 5 pm. Platters and homemade pies available · Childrens play area website: www.falsecapewines.com.au email: info@falsecapewines.com.au ph: (08) 8553 1140 or 0447 808 838

Brooklyn Farm Countryside FarmStay Retreat by the Sea / Rustic Wedding Venue (Made famous by the film ‘The Boys are Back.’)

39 Commercial Rd, Strathalbyn Open 7 days 7-4pm Fri & Sat nights 5.30 - 9pm (Bar open til midnight on Fri-Sat nights.)

Pretty things from South Australia (and beyond) can be found at the gorgeous Hills & Coast in Strathalbyn. Stocking Elm Lifestyle · Emily Adams · Threadz · Tirelli · etikette candles · Just Jane ceramics · BoPo Women · Moe Moe · Miss Jones & Co planters · Red Tractor Designs · Rancho Designs and Olieve by Olieve & Olie.

Belinda Croser 41 Commercial Rd Strathalbyn SA 5255 M: 0490 141 941

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Wood Fired Pizza that comes to you. Ph: 0408 023 401 www.billydohntdoes.com.au

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Saturdays 8am –12.00pm Willunga Town Square

Meet the grower, TASTE THE REGION

We welcome you to our community. Become a member for the day and receive 10% discount (available until 31st March 2021) off all purchases when you present this voucher to the Information Stall.

ESTD. 2005

BLD 248623

OLD | NEW | ECO www.willungafarmersmarket.com.au

0409 286 135

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Growing a healthy & connected community on the Fleurieu Peninsula

www.allabouthealthaldinga.com.au 105

Above: Cono Gorgone opened his new restaurant Sicily Mare in June 2020 at Aldinga.

Go south go local – a little Story by Jake Dean.

In a list of 2020’s most unenviable tasks, opening a new business in a new region amid a pandemic would have to be right up there. That was the challenge for Cono Gorgone, who opened his new restaurant Sicily Mare Pizzeria in June this year.

dough (rested for 72 hours), a Sicilian wine list, menus in the Sicilian dialect, gelati and a sunbathed Mediterranean-inspired space, filled with white, blue and orange.

‘I signed the lease before COVID, but I thought, it’s going to be a slow process cleaning up the place, so the timing worked,’ says Cono, who took over the old Snapper Point Deli and Marie’s Crystal Cave on Aldinga Beach’s Esplanade in late 2019. Despite COVID restrictions still limiting dine-in customers after the June opening, Cono has been thrilled with the support his restaurant has received. ‘It’s been brilliant,’ he says.

‘It [the pizzeria] has become a melting pot, from farmers, to people from wineries, to workers, locals trying something new, and tourists on their Sunday drives,’ Cono says. However its multifaceted appeal perhaps shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise. With four decades in the hospitality industry – including the past four years with his Sicily brand – Cono’s credentials, infectious enthusiasm and Sicilian fare were always going to be a hit, pandemic or not.

It’s these stories, and the people behind them, that the City of Onkaparinga Council is celebrating this summer as part of the Go South Go Local campaign, which supports local businesses to recover and grow.

Cono is just one of the unique characters in the Onkaparinga Council’s spotlight. Drive five minutes inland from Sicily Mare and you’ll find two more – Francis and Eileen Tan. They brought authentic Singaporean hawker-style food to Onkaparinga when they opened Lot 8, a cosy restaurant alongside their Aldinga Arts EcoVillage home, in late 2018.

Sicily Mare is Cono’s third venture, joining Sicily Pizzeria e Bar on Rundle Street and Sicily Autostrada in Everard Park. The pizzeria features a UNESCO-recognised recipe for handmade and stretched

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The menu also features homestyle dishes that have been passed down through generations of Cono’s family, including ‘polpette di poveri’ – vegetarian ‘meatballs’ that were first made during a time when meat was too expensive for many to afford.

Above: Francis Tan and his family are serving up delicious authentic Singaporean dishes at Lot 8, Aldinga.

slice of Sicily and Singapore The Tans migrated from Singapore in 2009 after Francis fell in love with SA during a business trip. But it was a Carrickalinga staycation with Eileen’s parents in 2012 – and the chance to discover the Willunga Farmers Market, Port Willunga and the EcoVillage – that convinced them to move south. Longing for the simple, unpretentious comfort food of their homeland, Frances and Eileen began recreating it in their new Fleurieu home. Eventually they were spurred on to share it with the community, with customers regularly commenting that Lot 8’s menu – including laksas, char siu (BBQ) chicken and spring rolls – evokes memories of their own Asian travels. Like Cono, Francis and Eileen say the local response has been instrumental in their success, particularly during COVID-19. Inspired food and affable hosts (including their two teenage sons) aside, Lot 8’s community of loyal customers was built on its intimate dining space. But when the state government declared a public health emergency in March, the Tans pivoted to takeaway only. ‘We’re lucky we had fourteen months to build a following before,’ Francis says. ‘Without the community’s support, Lot 8 wouldn’t survive this pandemic. Customers miss that spontaneity and connection and we miss it too! [But] staying open and increasing our online communication has helped sustain our business while we try new ways to engage with our customers.’

That Sicily Mare and Lot 8 have continued thriving during the pandemic is proof unique personalities and offerings keep customers coming back. Their existence – little slices of Sicily and Singapore in the suburbs – is also proof Onkaparinga is spoiled for choice, and both businesses walk the talk themselves when it comes to supporting local. Cono has employed local tradespeople and a gardener to transform his building into a space fit for a Sicilian. The Tans buy most ingredients from locals, including veggies from Oriental Green (which has a stall at Willunga Farmers Market), free-range eggs from Willunga’s Feather and Peck, and free-range local meat via Aldinga Central Meats. They also sell desserts from McLaren Vale’s My Sweet Art. ‘It’s important, especially during this pandemic, because these businesses are the people who make up our community,’ explains Francis, who hopes to reopen for dine-in this summer. ‘They’re our neighbours and friends. We care about them, and they us. Every dollar spent with a local business is another dollar invested in the community.’ To learn more about City of Onkaparinga’s Go South Go Local campaign, visit onbusinesspartnerprogram.com/go-south-go-local

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What to buy: Where to buy it

01 02

03 01. The Revive range Classic white ceramics featuring a soft grey speckle, leaf print and matte glaze. This range has an effortlessly timeless look. All pieces are suitable for microwave, dishwasher and oven use. Available from I Am Tall Poppy, Willunga. Plate RRP $49.99. Bowl RRP $59.99 iamtallpoppy.com.au 02. Luxaflex® Evo MagnaTrack Awning Eliminating up to 95% of solar heat penetration, the system is ideal for improving a home’s sustainability, energy consumption and comfort. Exclusively available from Betta Quality Curtains & Blinds, Victor Harbor. bettaquality.luxaflex.com.au/products/awnings/evo-magnatrack/ 03. ProQ Excel V4 BBQ Smoker Take your barbequing and smoking capabilities to the next level with the exciting new range of outdoor ProQ BBQ Smokers. To grill, roast or smoke food to perfection. Available from Adelaide Outdoor Kitchens, Seaford Meadows. adelaideoutdoorkitchens.com.au

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Our retail shops are full of great products to enhance outdoor living this summer. Unique and high quality items are available on your doorstep.

04. Peachy Moonscape Pot This gorgeous hand painted planter from Mowgli Studio, featuring a stunning fan aloe, will bring light and joy to any interior. Pot $110, pot with plant $150. Available from Charlie & Jack, Victor Harbor. charlieandjack.com.au 05. Peasant Bowls A Little Road Studio favourite. Created in Australia and made with love and care, the Peasant Bowl has so many uses – the choice is yours. 23cm diameter, dishwasher safe and available in a range of colours – Ink Blue, Elephant Grey, Satin White, Haze and Seaweed. Available from Little Road Studio. RRP: $59.95 littleroad.com.au 06. The Kinfolk Garden: How to Live With Nature (2020) This latest book from Danish Publishers Kinfolk focuses on spaces that bring the outdoors in and the indoors out, exploring the garden as a place for work, play, entertaining, and inspiration. Available from South Seas Book and Trading, Port Elliot. $59.95 southseasbooks.com.au 07. Spot Cushions Add a spot of colour to any space with our Spot 40cm diameter range of feather filled cushions. Spot features a coloured screen printed front panel, a natural linen reverse with an exposed brass zip in the centre. Available from Little Road Studio In Sky Blue, Green and Navy. RRP $69.95. littleroad.com.au 109

The weed sisters Story by Winnie Pelz. Photography by Jason Porter.

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Previous page and above: Jill Lieblich’s garden and home feature a fairly structured layout with beautiful stonework, a water feature, cascading wisteria vine, rose garden and orchard.

When you call yourselves The Weed Sisters, some good-natured ribbing is perhaps to be expected. Some have called them the weird sisters. Others have queried whether it eludes to a more elicit pastime. But this name does what it says on the label.

The Weed Sisters are all about weeding – pulling out those unwanted interlopers that grow with great vigour and abundance in your garden – and sharing in the convivial companionship that has grown among the sisters. The four Weed Sisters are Jill Lieblich, Sue Caporn-March, Katerina Bickford and Tracey Bishop. All live in and around the McLaren Vale– Willunga region and all have wonderful gardens that still, despite their efforts over the last ten years, have energetic weeds. > 111

Above: Katerina Bickford and her husband Rob at their beautiful McLaren Vale home and garden.

The genesis of The Weed Sisters goes back to one of Tracey’s earlier ventures, Sweettart, a renowned local pastry business. Jill was part of the Tarts team and a work-based friendship between the two expanded into walking and gardening together. So when both women built new homes they naturally turned to each other for help in planting out and developing their new gardens. Sue joined next. Her garden dates back forty years and she joined Tracey and Jill at a time she describes as ‘a testing crossroads’ as she questioned the direction of her garden and her future. For Sue, becoming part of the group was a ‘godsend’ and gave her a new focus and energy as well as clarifying her direction in life. 112

Katerina completed the quartet six years ago and they have met every Thursday since, taking turns to work in each other’s gardens. Katerina is the collector of unusual plants in the group and she brings a great knowledge of botanical detail and the history of plants, as well as her gentle sense of humour. Jill likes digging and hedging, a skill shared by Tracey, who has a love of machinery (except chainsaws!) and is the irrigation champion of the group. Sue, a gardening generalist, has become the ‘weeding queen’ and also contributes another invaluable asset from time to time – her husband – who builds beautiful dry-stone walls.

Sue Caporn-March’s garden features Willunga slate stonework by her husband Doug, garden sculpture, water feature and a tame crow who visits daily. Bottom left: Jill Lieblich, Tracey Bishop, and Sue Caporn-March having their weekly catch up formed around gardening, friendship and freshly home-baked sweets and savouries.

These four women have found their perfect gardening equilibrium with their particular mix of skills and personalities and so they’ve decided not to expand their number any further, though they have inspired other gardening groups to follow their weed-blazing ways. The limited membership means that once a month, each sister’s garden gets the benefit of the four women’s shared effort and equally the shared joy of seeing their gardens grow. Their gardens are diverse, in age, size, scope and style. Jill has a twenty-acre property, with two acres of ‘tough ornamental garden’ protected by hedges and beautiful stone walls. There are deciduous

trees, fruit trees, a vegetable garden and a magical wisteria arbour that sees an abundance of white and lavender blooms cascading from a verandah through spring and summer. Sue’s garden reaches down a valley for some ten acres, with stone walls terracing the slope and creating ‘rooms’ for vegetable gardens, magnificent mature trees and ornamental rambling plants for colour and texture. A crow has become a bold gardening companion and enjoys sharing (stealing?) morning teas. Tracey describes her garden as ‘an exercise in taming a terraced slope.’ An empty hillside when she and her husband built their new > 113

Above: Tracey Bishop’s stepped garden combines formal elements like hedging and stone and an arbor with rambling roses, and cascading ground-covers.

house, the garden is the most formal of the group in design and execution. Designed by Adelaide landscape designer Caroline Dawes with stonework by local stonemason Rick Wheatley, the steep slope features clipped hedges of Japanese Box, Euonymous and Teucrium to offset the stone walls. Katerina’s garden covers some two acres sloping down to the bank of the Breakneck Creek. The location of her house in the middle of the block creates four areas for four distinct gardens, including an area of native plants, one of fruit trees and one with abundant colourful roses. 114

The diversity of the gardens enables each Weed Sister to provide varying suggestions and degrees of input. And their willingness to do so has grown as they’ve come to know each other better over the years. Now they’re able to make suggestions about planting and changes, with each member offering a different perspective. ‘We love the gardens, having watched them grow over the years and we lose ourselves in the pleasure of being outside in a beautiful environment,’ they say. The Weed Sisters are not daunted by rain or cold or extreme heat. ‘What if the weather is really awful?’ I ask. They all grin: ‘We still meet...and then we drink coffee and eat cake. And tarts!’

Jimmy Smith’s Dairy jimmy smith’s dairy style guide

For a unique and relaxing getaway at Port Elliot: jimmysmithsdairy.com.au Ph: 0409 690 342 Mentone Road East, Port Elliot, SA (via Brickyard Road.) For a logo to be effective, it’s essential that it doesn’t change. It needs to be represented the same way over and over again. If a logo is suddenly represented in a different way (for example, a red logo suddenly becomes blue) the audience becomes confused and the strength of the brand diminishes. Repetition and consistency is the key.

This style guide is a reference for your logo, and will outline how to use elements in different circumstances.

When Love and Skill Work Together Expect a Masterpiece! In the heart of the Aldinga Historic Township. (08) 7516 5657

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29 High Street, Willunga Open 7 days 10-3 · 0433 033 455 Shop online willungagallery.com.au

3/06/14

2:48 PM

CMY

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Fleurieu weddings Bethany and Ollie married on 19 September 2020 at King’s Beach Retreats. Photography by Davish Photography.

Ollie and Bethany first met on a high school trip to America in 2012. They spent the two-week trip getting to know each other and became best friends. Their close friendship quickly blossomed into love and they have been together ever since. After graduating high school, both Bethany and Ollie spent time living overseas, before adventuring around Europe together.

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They both moved back to Adelaide to attend university, begin their careers and build a life together. On the final day of their holiday to Uluru in July 2019, Ollie proposed to Bethany at sunrise with the spectacular Uluru in the background. Even though it was very early in the morning and extremely cold, Ollie managed to convince Bethany that getting out of bed would be worth it – of course she later agreed! Ollie had Bethany’s engagement ring made using the diamond from his mother’s engagement ring that his late father proposed with. They started planning their wedding and could not wait for the adventures ahead. Wedding planning can be difficult during normal circumstances, however COVID meant there were a lot of obstacles and a lot of rearranging. Even with restrictions on the number of guests,

Previous page and above: The exquisite backdrop of King’s Beach Retreats encompassing spectacular views of The Bluff and the Heysen Trail.

interstate and overseas friends being unable to attend and regulations on dancing and ‘vertical consumption’, Bethany and Ollie were determined to get married on the original date they selected – 19 September 2020. Bethany and Ollie’s closest family and friends came together to create a spectacular wedding day. Even forecasted storms couldn’t dampen the buzz of excitement that the day had finally arrived after a rollercoaster six months. The incredible views of The Bluff and the Heysen Trail set the scene for the perfect day ahead. A midday ceremony followed by a lunch reception allowed guests to enjoy the breathtaking venue throughout the day and into the evening. Both of their families stayed in the Headland House for the weekend, while Bethany and Ollie enjoyed the luxury of the ‘Sand’ Cottage.

All the guests were completely blown away by the beauty of King’s Beach Retreats and it will forever hold a special spot in Ollie and Bethany’s hearts. Family was a key theme across Bethany and Ollie’s wedding day. Their gorgeous dog Maisy was entrusted to be the ring bearer and Bethany’s Grandma created the wedding bouquets using native flowers from the family property. One of the silver linings of having a wedding during the challenges of 2020, was that it solidified what was most important to both Bethany and Ollie, which is that they simply got married. Bethany and Ollie plan to have a ‘wedding celebration’ party in 2021 where they can celebrate (and dance!) with all their family and friends. The love and support from all their family and friends, including those unable to attend on the day, meant the world to them in creating their magical day. 117

SOCIAL PAGES

Being Social: Encounter Lutheran College school formal Friday September 18th proved to be an unusually balmy Spring evening which delighted 35 Encounter Lutheran students as they celebrated their much awaited Year 12 formal in style at Eat@Whalers, Encounter Bay. Fun memories were made after such a topsy-turvy year for these students. Best of luck to all of them!

Being Social: Tatachilla Lutheran College year 12 formal After a very challenging year full of adjustments, we congratulate the Year 12 graduates of Tatachilla Lutheran College for making it through with smiles and celebrations.

01. Paige Rice, Niah MacLeod, Zoe Lippett, Jack Fegan, Isa Leon Hoyos, Bryce Phillips, Mary O’Callaghan, Eben Newland, Ashlee Sugrue, Keanu Price, Abigail Wright and Mr Tim Wormald. 02. Ms Georgia Martin, Sam Baxter, Jessica Howarth, Matthew Keach, Makayla Mann, Henry Round, Georgia Martin, Sam Ashmoore, Alexandra McPhail, Nick Baxter and Mr Sam Dunbar. 03. Ms Yu Cameron, Isabel Almering, Mason Ford, Tahnee Buckley, Charlie Yelland, Georgia Perry, Stuart Scott, Amber Mell, Sam Tummel, Hana Freeman, Jack Fegan, Sam Ashmoore, Keanu Price and Charlie Yelland. 04. Angus Holmes, Meesha Whittam, Ella Craig, Ella Thomas, Benji Cross and Mr Troy Wegener. 05. Georgia Perry, Alexandra McPhail, Makayla Mann, Georgia Riggs and Amber Mell. 06. Tahnee Buckley, Abigail Wright, Ella Craig and Ashlee Sugrue. 07. Mitch Livingston, Grace Wormald and Lucy Newman. 08. Ben Schroeder, Brooke Mulligan and Finn Mayne. 09. Nic Dutton and Jordan McMillan. 10. Kelli Nijhuis, Hayley Brown, Hannah Miller, Jessica Waters, May Reichenbach, Paris Hickling and Lexie Denton. 11. Izaac Logan, Riley Zettler, Rohan Minniss and Zane Annand. 12. Chloe McCaul, Lexie Denton, Ruby Thomas and Talena Harris. > 118

Situated in the picturesque hamlet of Ashbourne is “The Greenman Inn” country pub. Open Wed-Sun 11am to late. Breakfast on Sat or Sun available for large group bookings only.

Kings Beach Retreats Three luxury, private wilderness retreats. Each with spectacular coastal views. https://kingsbeachretreats.com.au/booking/ · 0407 183 905

A unique and luxurious base to explore the Fleurieu Peninsula.

Bookings 0448 016 951 · stay@millestate.com.au

Suitable for Motoring and sporting clubs. Booking essential. Call 8536 6363.

Lot 10A 173 Port Road, Aldinga Open hours: Weekdays 8-4, weekends 9-4

Spunky little BnB right in the heart of idyllic Strathalbyn

Farm to store produce. Jetty Juice Bar

42 North Terrace, Port Elliot SA. T: 0413 377 611

Located close to the Coorong and wineries of Langhorne Creek, Adelaide Hills and McLaren Vale. Sleeps up to 6 people in king rooms. Able to host intimate dinner parties or larger cocktail events. For bookings give Kate 0405201229 or Simon 041873893 a buzz.

INDOOR PLANTS · CERAMICS · BASKETS · PLANTERS · HOMEWARES · BEAUTY PRODUCTS · JEWELLERY GIFT VOUCHERS · CARDS · SELECT GARDENING PRODUCTS

Luxury self contained accommodation. The Temperance Precinct; 206 Port Road, Aldinga Bookings through Airbnb under Sage Loft Aldinga.

charlieandjack.com.au · Victor Harbor 119

SOCIAL PAGES

Being Social: Yes. No. Maybe ... We asked: What have COVID restrictions meant to you and your work? Photography by Loki Hall.

01. Tom Campbell, Lenswood – Chef at Summertown Aristologist. While Tom had to work longer hours to accommodate more seatings across a day he found it helped put things into perspective and he has spent time working on hobbies and other interests. 02. Georgia Riggs, Victor Harbor – newly graduated Encounter Lutheran student. Georgia and her peers had to adapt to numerous changes and be resilient in the face of a very challenging year to be graduating. She also found that social media needed filtering – ‘too much COVID!’ 03. Tahl Warchivker, Alice Springs and Chiara Dorward, Middleton. Tahl and Chiara met through COVID so a big silver lining there and Chiara enjoyed coming home and being with family and surfing. 04. Harvey Thorne, Willunga. Harvey had to quarantine twice on return from overseas but feels super lucky to be here now and grateful ‘it’ didn’t happen as bad in SA. 120

05. Mikayla, Jackie and Mollie – Environmental Consultants. Mikayla is happy to be here having experienced a very strict lockdown in Singapore. Jackie is concerned about mental health and family relationships in the community but is very impressed with how compliant our state’s citizens have been. Mollie says ‘Check in with people who are isolated! Stay connected.’ 06. Katie Spain, Hope Forest – Freelance journalist. Katie has been taking extra time to be in the garden and is grateful to have made the recent decision to make the Fleurieu home base. ‘If there is one thing COVID has taught me it is to let go of stuff that doesn’t matter.’ 07. Jem, Port Noarlunga – Yoga with Jem. Jem is happy to oblige with any restrictions the government throws our way but is ‘feeling the feels – frustrated but grateful’.

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FLEURIEU LIVING T H E B E S T O F S O U T H A U S T R A L I A’ S F L E U R I E U P E N I N S U L A A N D K A N G A R O O I S L A N D

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Fleurieu Living Magazine Summer 2020/21

Articles inside

Garden feature: The weed sisters

Bethany and Ollie Septemnber 19, 2020

Go south go local: Sicily Mare and Lot 8, Aldinga

Great summer reads by Mark Laurie of South Seas Books at Port Elliot

Tea and Roses: de Rose Kitchen

Fresh destinations

Coco & Shy: Wear and care on the coast

Ask A Local

Uncorked: A walk on the wild side

On the menu: Salopian Inn, Leonards Mill and The Currant Shed

Building better: Sustainability feature

Fleurieu Film Festival

Producer profile: Little Forest Farm

Diary Dates to keep you cultured this summer

Making grenache great again

Music in the time of COVID: Laura Hill Keith Jeffery and Sasha March

Community jumping in to rescue little fish

Faces and places: Brenton Preece

Navigating the inbetween

Great grenache