Trailblazers: Russell Jeavons and Katrina Kytka

TRAILBLAZERS Russell Jeavons and Katrina Kytka Story by Kate Le Gallez.

Russell Jeavons wants to talk about the maritime environment of the Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island. He thinks it doesn’t get enough attention. He’d keep talking, except for the assertive but good-natured redirection by his wife and partner of nearly forty years, Katrina Kytka.

It’s not surprising that Russell’s thoughts would turn to the sea. For one thing, they’re currently on a boat, speaking to me from their anchorage in Kangaroo Island’s Vivonne Bay. They’ve finally set off on a long dreamt about sailing odyssey, albeit one currently limited by COVID-19 to South Australian waters. For another, it’s quite obvious that when Russell and Katrina are passionate about something, they thoughtfully and tirelessly pursue it, whether it’s food, education or, indeed, the ocean.

Trying to tell the story of their contribution to the region in a linear way feels almost impossible. So much of their professional and personal lives are indelibly woven together. Pull the string that says ‘Salopian Inn’ and a connected tumble of learnings lead you to Russell’s Pizza. But the Russell’s Pizza string won’t untangle from the one connected to the Willunga Waldorf School. Even the fact they’re currently sailing speaks to these connections.

After meeting in Mount Gambier in 1982, the couple set sail for a year in 1984. ‘During that time we were gestating our first born son and then it was him in many ways, and looking for a home that brought us to the Fleurieu,’ Katrina recalls. That baby, Tim, is now a new father himself. ‘So there’s this lovely little loop there,’ she continues. ‘Quite a big loop,’ Russell adds drily.

They moved to Blewitt Springs in 1985, and Russell took a job at the soon to be opened Salopian Inn. McLaren Vale was just beginning to establish a regional identity for wine and the young Russell wanted in on the latest trend – the marriage of food and wine. In the Salopian’s proprietors Kerry and Zannie Flanagan, he found like-minded pioneers. Russell remained at the Salopian for the next eight years, going on to work with Pip Forrester when she bought the business in 1988. They slowly began lifting their eyes from the cookbooks, instead looking locally for menu inspiration, searching out small producers and taking their cues from the land. A new ecosystem began to emerge, where producers, restaurants and wine existed together. ‘It was a very exciting time,’ Russell says. ‘We could all prosper together and work together towards the one thing, which was McLaren Vale; what that meant when you put it on a label.’

The late eighties was a busy time for the Jeavons-Kytka family. Baby Tim was joined by three younger siblings – Elliot, Jordan and Anna – and as their young brood approached school age, Katrina and Russell, like all parents, began considering schools. But unlike most parents, they decided to start their own school together with a group of like-minded families in the district. One of those like-minded people was Tony French-Kennedy, whose daughter Greta joined Tim Jeavons and six others in the first class of what would become the Willunga Waldorf School. The school came about through joint effort and commitment, but in Tony’s recollection, it was Katrina and Russell who suggested Steiner education might offer what they were all looking for.

‘They strike me as a renaissance couple in a way,’ says Tony. ‘They have different strengths and characters that complement each other. Katrina’s got a very strong education, organisational side to her and Russell has got this real creative approach and slightly left of field approach and perspective.’ Over the years, they both brought their differing skills to bear on the school with Katrina dedicating many volunteer hours, before joining the school as a teacher librarian and learning support teacher and eventually becoming head of school from 2017 to 2019.

Those early years were an inspired and inspiring time. ‘It’s what happens when a group of people get together with a common vision and bring it into being,’ says Katrina. Their next venture, Russell’s Pizza, continued to explore and expand their ideas of community. Russell hadn’t only been cooking at the Salopian, he’d been observing and considering. Questioning things, as Tony puts it, ‘in a gentle, unexpected way.’ And he noticed the difficult economics involved in running a restaurant. For Russell, viability required simplifying both the cooking and the restaurant apparatus, while emphasising food quality and amplifying the culture both inside the kitchen and out. At the centre of it all was the woodfire brick oven. ‘It just seemed to be a symbol of everything we needed to do. It was traditional, it was cultural, it was incredibly economic and efficient at engaging people.’ Famously, the restaurant was initially only open on Friday nights and operated for the first two years without a liquor licence.

Over the years, the whole family worked there, joined by a rotating roster of local kids often from the Waldorf school. ‘The two things grew up together,’ says Katrina. ‘The business and the school grew up side-by-side so there were so many links and so many friends and family connections.’ And perhaps it was this integration of philosophy and community that spoke so strongly to people, whether from Waldorf, Willunga or beyond. Jules Rydon, now chef and co-owner of Pearl at Aldinga Beach, was then just another local kid who spent Friday nights at Russell’s. ‘Russell’s was about provenance, it was about locality, it was about ingredients,’ he tells me. ‘It was about a community. In essence, that’s what Bec and I are trying to slowly build down here at Pearl.’

Russell handed over his business to Emma Baxter and Gerard Liddle some ten years ago. Then when Katrina retired last year, they finally completed their loop and again set sail together. ‘In some ways it’s our time to get out of the way and make way for the next generation,’ says Katrina. It’s both a modest recognition of the contributions they’ve made and also something of a gentle challenge to others to step up. For now, they’re just letting life unfold. ‘We’re sort of living the dream at the moment,’ says Russell. ‘We were dreaming for a long time and now we’re not dreaming anymore, we’re in it.’

THE LOBSTER

Normanville The Lobster is all about making memories. A renovated 70s a-frame that instantly transports you back to long, simple beach days. Situated in a quiet street, only a short walk to Normy Beach and the main street shops, cafes and pub, The Lobster is the perfect getaway for couples, friends or families (including furry, four-legged family members) and can be enjoyed at any time of the year. Sleeps up to 8 guests thelobster.com.au Take A Break Holiday Rentals

BEAUMONT HOUSE

Port Elliot Set atop the rise overlooking Boomer Beach, sits this impressive family entertainer. A recent refurbishment has reinvigorated the property with new furniture and quality bed linen to create a luxurious beach escape that parents and kids alike can enjoy. The cafes and boutiques of Port Elliot are just a short walk away or take the coastal walk around the cliff top of Knights Beach through to Horseshoe Bay. Sleeps 12-14 guests 0414 516 120 info@takeabreakholidayrentals.com

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

Aldinga Beach Nestled among gum trees, Southern Exposure overlooks Aldinga’s conservation park, where kangaroos thrive and kookaburras laugh, all just 400 metres from the famous drive-on Aldinga Beach. Stunningly presented, this is an art-inspired space with comfort in mind. There’s plenty of room to move inside and out, with an expansive entertaining deck with fire pit, trampoline, pool table, dual living spaces, well-appointed kitchen and luxurious bedding. Perfect for the family getaway. Sleeps up to 8 guests 0418 816 915 @southernexposure_aldingabeach

THE PINES

Maslin Beach The Pines at Maslin Beach is your ultimate relaxing beachside getaway. Recently renovated and styled in collaboration with retail store, Artistic Lifestyle, The Pines has a vibe like no other. Boasting many upcycled furniture pieces that create a unique, homely feel, guests can enjoy the retro coastal style inside or relax on the enormous entertainer’s deck. Just a five minute stroll to the iconic Maslin Beach, fences and a large backyard make this a perfect spot for children and pets. Sleeps 6 guests 0414 356 375 Book via Airbnb

Take A Break Holiday Rentals

CLAYTON SHORE

Clayton Bay Clayton Shore is a spacious, light-filled home with uninterrupted views over the water to Hindmarsh Island and the big southern sky. Set on 10 acres of absolute water frontage, this amazing property offers simple, functional elegance the whole family can enjoy. All bedrooms and living areas enjoy water views, while raked ceilings and louvre windows provide full cross ventilation to take advantage of those cooling lake breezes. With its elevated footings and expansive decks, this home appears to float between earth and sky! Sleeps 8 guests 0414 516 120

info@takeabreakholidayrentals.com

RIPPLE

Port Willunga Set in the quiet and exclusive survey area of Port Willunga, this modern oasis awaits your next escape. Situated two blocks from the famous Port Willunga beach and a 10 kilometre drive to the endless vineyards and cellar doors of McLaren Vale, it’s the perfect base for exploring the Fleurieu. Sun-filled rooms, contemporary furnishings and openplan living set the scene for a relaxing and restorative stay. Sleeps 6 guests @rippleatportwillunga

LEONARDS MILL

Second Valley The gardens surrounding the historic 162 year-old Leonards Mill provide a gorgeous setting for two intimate cottage rooms, each with ensuite, queen-sized bed and lounge area. Reservations include a meal in the Leonards Mill restaurant, with Friday and Saturday night bookings enjoying a stunning five course degustation dinner and weekday bookings treated to a three course lunch. The perfect spot for your next well-earned weekend of relaxation, a special celebration, or romantic getaway. Each cottage sleeps 2 guests. (08) 8598 4184 leonardsmill.com.au/accommodation/

FREELING ST

Port Elliot This c1920s stone cottage is perfectly situated to enjoy everything Port Elliot has to offer. Recently renovated, the cottage offers a touch of class when it comes to holiday living, with four bedrooms, two bathrooms, dual living areas, an executive kitchen and dining area plus a great entertaining deck. This home really is something special for the whole family or a cast of friends to enjoy. Sleeps 11 guests. (08) 8552 5744 harcourtsbeachhouse.com.au

JIMMY SMITH’S DAIRY

Port Elliot This thoughtfully restored colonial dairy offers luxury accommodation among Port Elliot’s pristine beaches, rugged bushland trails and charming wineries. Carefully curated and designed for absolute comfort, it offers the chance to truly unwind. Qantas Travel Insider loved the combination of heritage and modernity, saying ‘while original features such as exposed-bluestone walls remain, it’s modern additions such as floor-to-ceiling windows, bamboo flooring and luxe bathrooms that make this place so inviting.’ Sleeps 2-4 guests. 0409 690 342 jimmysmithsdairy.com.au

BROOKLANDS HERITAGE B&B

Port Elliot The perfect romantic getaway for two, this charming self-contained cottage is a magical place, resonating with the spirit of a bygone age. Built in the 1840s and State Heritage listed, it’s set in 65 acres of farmland and overlooks the ocean between Port Elliot and Victor Harbor. Beautiful gardens landscaped by Sophie Thomson on the outside and a cosy wood fire, well-appointed kitchen and spa bath on the inside make Brooklands a treat in any weather. Sleeps 2 guests. 0424 341 045 brooklands.net.au

SUNNINGDALE HOUSE

Port Elliot Sunningdale House is a beautifully renovated 1800s early settler’s house in the heart of Port Elliot, which now offers a bespoke luxury holiday retreat. Enjoy a stroll to the nearby eateries and boutiques in Port Elliot, swim in the turquoise waters of Horseshoe Bay, or simply relax on the expansive deck. With luxury 1500TC linens, fine furnishings and a gourmet chef’s kitchen, Sunningdale is your home away from home. Furry friends are also welcome in the secure, fully fenced yard. Sleeps 8 guests. 0426 828 120

Instagram: @sunningdale.house

MILL ESTATE

Goolwa Located just off the main street of Goolwa, Mill Estate boasts two self-contained luxury cottages, the original c1853 Mill Cottage and The Abode Spa Retreat. Each dwelling balances the warmth and comfort of home with the premium indulgence of sophisticated living. Whether it’s a romantic seaside escape for two, or a getaway with family or friends, Mill Estate offers the perfect base to explore the Fleurieu Peninsula. Come and enjoy all that the region has to offer and let Mill Estate provide you with a recharging ‘winter weekender’. Sleeps 8 guests 0448 016 951 millestate.com.au

Bespoke artisans

Introducing six diverse craftspeople, all creating specialised and unique hand-crafted pieces that optimize style, design, skill, aesthetic and quality.

ASTLEY WRIGHT KNIVES

Located at 71 Hill Street in Port Elliot, Astley Wright Knives create hand-forged Damascus, carbon and stainless steel knives for direct sale or as custom commissions. Simple in principle, but complex to make, their knives are functional art, balancing usability and ergonomics with aesthetics. Andrina and Phil also offer one- and two-day knife making courses, where they will guide you through designing and crafting your own bespoke knife. astleywright.com.au

YELLOWBIRD

YellowBird’s stunning range of clutch purses and bags are designed and handmade by Lynley Slater on the Fleurieu Peninsula. Her slow fashion approach uses small quantities of leather and fabrics chosen for their quality, structure and design paired with sustainably sourced blackwood and maple frames. Lynley handmakes each piece in her home studio, incorporating beautiful details to ensure every YellowBird bag is unique and offers timeless appeal. @yellowbirdhandmade

A SMALL ART FACTORY

Warm the heart of your garden and home with metal art and sculptures by local artist team Anna Small and Warren Pickering. From small beginnings, their artistic output has grown and evolved. Utilising laser cutting technology and hand cutting tools, Anna and Warren create small production pieces through to larger wall or garden sculptures and bespoke structures. Their work can be found at the Fleurieu Arthouse in Hardy’s Tintara Winery McLaren Vale. asmallartfactory.com.au

Photo by Russell Millard.

INDIGO CLAY

Chris Wilksch is a ceramic artist. She loves the meditative process of wheel throwing, carving, decorating and the challenge of glaze chemistry. ‘There’s something beautifully respectful about turning earth into finely made objects to be treasured by their owners. The process is fun, rewarding and always a little unpredictable.’ Chris’ studio is in Port Noarlunga where she offers pottery classes, workshops for special events and small groups that combine creative therapies and mindfulness processes. indigoclay.com.au

HAND BLOWN GLASS BY LLEWELYN ASH

Llewelyn has been working in glass since 2008, learning his art at the University of South Australia and then honoured as a JamFactory Associate. He is now an award-winning artist and has exhibited around Australia. Llewelyn specialises in bespoke lighting, corporate awards, artworks and unique products for your home or that special gift. Llewelyn is one of the award-winning glass blowers behind Eternity Memorials, carefully embedding ashes into glass keepsakes. llewelynashglass.com

SHE SEWS

She Sews is located in the heart of McLaren Vale and specialises in made to measure bridal and evening wear. Megan offers no obligation quotes on creating an individual dress or outfit to fit perfectly – and reflect your individual style. She Sews offers an extensive range of lace, silk, wool and satin fabric perfect for a winter wedding. If you have purchased an ‘off the rack gown’, a made to measure alteration service is also available and this includes bridesmaids, mother of the bride and men’s suits. shesews.com.au

To your door: Six Fleurieu businesses offering something local and a little special, delivered right to your door.

WINE TASTING POD PACK Dowie Doole

Dowie Doole’s Tasting Pod Pack recreates the cellar door experience at home, so you can taste some of the highlights of the Dowie Doole range without leaving the house. There are three packs to choose from and each includes a curated selection of six wines in generous tasting pours (enough for two people to taste) as well as branded Riedel wine glasses. Read the included tasting notes and winery information at your leisure, or watch winemaker Chris Thomas tell the story of each wine on YouTube. dowiedoole.com

FIREWOOD WOOD’N’LOGS

Not all firewood is created equal, and Wood’N’Logs are your trusted local supplier of high-quality, well-seasoned, hardwood varieties plus all the accessories you need to keep your fireplace running efficiently. And as part of their friendly service, they can deliver your firewood right to your door! Offering quick, easy payments over the phone, the experienced team can arrange delivery when you need it, so your home can continue to stay toasty and warm throughout the cooler months. woodnlogs.com.au

FLEURIEU GIFT PACKS The Local People Co

Beautifully presented, hand wrapped and sustainable, The Local People Co’s care packages celebrate the small businesses, producers and artisans of the Fleurieu. Founder Mandy Scanlon thoughtfully curates packages to suit any occasion or simply to encourage a little self care on a weekend away (or at home!) Orders can be placed via the website, or email Mandy with a price range and your wishlist and she will create a personalised package. The Local People Co is about community, networks, friends and celebrating life’s moments in style. thelocalpeopleco.com

AWARD WINNING ARTISAN PRODUCTS Matchett Productions & Big Sissy Foods

Vicki Matchett has been producing exceptional, multi-award winning artisan food products for over 15 years from the southern Fleurieu Peninsula. Her broad, sustainably produced range covers the full foodie gamut, with favourites including the Bad Sally balsamic reduction over veggies, a salad dressed in the Storm soya sesame dressing or perhaps olives and crackers to round out your cheese platter. FLM readers can enjoy 15% off using discount code FLM15 at checkout. (Expires 30/9/20) matchettproductions.com

SEASONAL ORGANIC PRODUCE BOX Girl Fleurieu Organics

Getting to the shops isn’t always easy, or even possible as recent times have shown. Girl Fleurieu Organics home delivers mixed boxes of 100% certified organic fruit and vegetables each week. You can also add in Goolwa Heritage Bakery bread, Cleland Gully free range eggs and DeGroot Coffee beans. Girl Fleurieu owner Lou Nicholson loves enabling easy access to certified organic produce and she’s more than willing to brave the elements through winter to bring it to your door.

girlfleurieuorganics.com

WINE AND PROVIDORE Hither & Yon + Three Monkeys

Hither & Yon and 3 Monkeys Fine Foods teamed up as neighbours and friends to create The Local Care Package. Their mission: to help take care of their community – a community that has shown them tremendous support during this tough period. Create your own care package from their selection of wine, tea, coffee, chocolate and good smells (thanks to Etikette Candles) or choose one of their curated selections from local makers: the Local Grazing Box or the Brekkie Box. Free local delivery or pick-up. hitherandyonwith3monkeys.square.site/