3 June: Bright
The sky is blue, the sun is golden and even the locals couldn’t be happier. This week we are going to take you on a perfect autumn journey through one of Victoria’s prettiest towns, Bright. Bridge takes a trip to the North of Italy without jumping on a plane, Brodie and Esther show the boys a thing or two, and Glen is on hand as a new born takes its very first steps.
Buckland Valley Alpacas
Nestled at the base of Mt Buffalo, approximately 10 minutes from Bright, you'll find Buckland Valley Alpacas and Chestnut Farm. It's a special time of year at Buckland Valley Alpacas and here in the nursery there is always something happening. Literally, as Glen arrived, he was on hand as a new born took its very first steps.
Ph 03 5756 2350
Bright Brewery
A three and a half hour drive from Melbourne, the Bright Brewery has been open for only a couple of years but in that short time it has really made an impression. Esther decides she wants to do more than just down a few cold ales, she wants to learn how the amber liquid is made, so she becomes a publican for the day.
Ph 03 5755 1301
www.brightbrewery.com.au
Adventure Tours Kayaking
The award winning Five Star Adventure Tours take paddling trips along the Kiewa River, just a short distance from Bright. These rapids, as far as rapids go, are fairly gentle with some effort needed to control the kayak, but it's really great fun! There are many different ways to take in the beautiful scenery of the Australian Alps but Brodie agrees, this would have to be one of the best.
Ph 03 5759 2555
www.5staradventure.com.au
Villa Gusto
Nestled at the Foothills of Mount Buffalo, among the rolling hills, vineyards and snow capped mountains of Bright, you'll find Villa Gusto, Australia's most genuine Italiano retreat. Only 308 kilometres north-east of Melbourne on the Great Alpine Road, Italy is much closer to home than you imagined. Bridge discovers Villa Gusto is set apart not only by its link with Italian culture, but also because of its emphasis on high-living.
Ph 03 5756 2000
www.villagusto.com.au
High Country Forge
Smoko is a lovely little town just a few kilometres past Bright on the Great Alpine Road. As modern industrial techniques pushed the blacksmith into the background, it forced the smithy to explore more artistic areas. In this age of electronic gadgets and labour saving devices, the art of creating something artistic in a way that man has been doing for centuries, is a joy to watch.
Ph 03 5759 2603
www.highcountryforge.com.au
Gapsted Wines
Gapsted winery is situated right in the heart of the King and Alpine valleys in Victoria's High country. You might have noticed it passing through on your way to the snowfields. At Gapsted, not only can you learn about wine but you can also indulge in the food that complements it. The winery offers the Taste Bud tour, which is a great way to choose your very own perfect drop.
Ph 03 5751 1383
www.gapstedwines.com.au
What's On
Melbourne Italian Festival
The Melbourne Italian Festival features classical music, recitals, poetry, painting and photography exhibitions, theatre and concerts.
Where: Federation Square and Piazza Italia
When: Until 10 June
More: www.thatsmelbourne.com.au
Bell Shakespeare presents Othello
Bell Shakespeare is proud to present Othellofor the first time, starring acclaimed actors Wayne Blair and Marcus Graham.
Where: Playhouse, the Arts Centre
When: Until 16 June
More: www.thatsmelbourne.com.au
Bledisloe Cup: Qantas Wallabies v NZ All Blacks
On June 30 the MCG will play host to the Qantas Wallabies as they renew their fierce rivalry with New Zealand's All Blacks in rugby's most anticipated annual test match, the Bledisloe Cup.
Where: MCG
When: 30 June
More: www.thatsmelbourne.com.au
