Episode 32: 27 September
This afternoon is the perfect time to sit back and relax with Suzie Wilks and the Postcards team. We take you behind the scenes with iconic Melburnian and theatre celebrity Craig McLachlan. We also venture south-wepostst to Timboon House, along the bay to The Vicarage in Queenscliff, and indulge in some artesian flair in the CBD.
Mt Avoca Winery
Mt Avoca Winery is the second oldest in the Pyrenees and without a doubt one of the most highly regarded in the whole region. The Pyrenees initially gained a reputation as a gold mining area, and then for farming, and it's all the micro-climates that you find in this region that makes it so special. Mt Avoca has an extensive range of wines that constantly scores between 4 and 4 stars from James Halliday.
The Barry family isn't happy just sharing award winning wines with everyone, so they decided to open eco-luxe lodges. These lodges have been architecturally designed with a minimal carbon footprint and constructed with native plantation timbers like termite and rot-proof Cyprus pine. They've also incorporated local bluestone that naturally heats each lodge.
Mt Avoca Winery
Moates Lane, Avoca
Ph: 03 5465 3282
www.mountavoca.com.au
Handmade
Our inspiration is Handmade in Melbourne, a guide to 200 of Melbourne's finest artisans, many of which can be found in the Nicholas Building's diverse vertical community of artists and artisans. Many of the building's studios are open by appointment only, but Kate Boulton at Buttonmania is always happy to have visitors. Buttonmania is home to one of the world's most comprehensive collections of what must be millions and millions of buttons.
Just upstairs, Brendan Dwyer's workshop is a creative haven where fashion-forward handmade footwear for men and women come to life. Up on the sixth floor at Idlewild Press, Carolyn Fraser is keeping the craft of custom printing alive and well. Carolyn hand-sets individual letters to produce limited edition books and custom made stationery for discerning clients. And if you want to learn how to make a good impression, you can join one of Carolyn's bi-monthly workshops. Milliner Serena Lindeman is another of the building's artisans who believes in sharing her skills.
Nicholas Building
Cnr Swanston Street and Flinders Lane, city
www.thenicholasbuilding.blogspot.com
Timboon House
Just for a moment imagine you're travelling through Victoria in the 1850s, looking for a good night's rest. Such pit stops on the road to Camperdown would have included the striking bluestone inn that is once again welcoming guests as Timboon House. The building retains most of its original features and its mix of charm, history and quirky surprises add to the attraction of the home. When it comes to accommodation you can choose between a self-contained two-bedroom stable or the main house, which features three large bedrooms all with private bathroom. There's also the magnificent garden with its 400 rose bushes, which have been pruned and are just about ready to bloom.
Timboon House
320 Old Geelong Road, Camperdown
Ph: 03 5593 1003
www.innhouse.com.au
The Vicarage, Queenscliff
With a brand new lease of life, the Vicarage is a one-off accommodation spot that captures the absolute essence of yesteryear and combines it with the luxury of today. Located in the seaside township of Queenscliff, a mere 90 minutes from Melbourne, the property was originally a parsonage. Although His Grace may have departed, the Vicarage has found new owners who truly understand the art of unsurpassed hospitality. The home consists of four bedrooms, which are made up of a king, two queens and two singles. Notable antiques, a striking spiral staircase, fabulous furniture and a sinful pool and spa round off the experience.
Now, when it's time to dine in Queenscliff and straightforward food is what you are after, you'll be right on the mark at Gusto Café. The space is light and airy and the menu simple but clever. The food is best described as modern Australian with a Mediterranean twist.
The Vicarage
13 Mercer Street, Queenscliff
Queenscliff and Coastal Holidays
Ph: 03 5291 8010
www.thevicarage.com.au
Gusto Cafe
25 Hesse Street, Queenscliff
Ph: 03 5258 3604
Craig McLachlan
Smash hit musical Chicago would have to be one of the hottest tickets in town right now and one of its stars, Craig McLachlan, takes us on a tour of his favourite places in Melbourne. We met him at Her Majesty's Theatre in the city, and then head to Bourke Street institution Pellegrini's, which seems to be a red hot favourite with both city dwellers and scores of celebrities. Next stop is Degraves Street, a short narrow laneway running north from Flinders Street to Flinders Lane. This cobbled, bluestone alley comprises bars, restaurants and cafés too good to pass up. If you'd like to see Craig in em>Chicago at Her Majesty's Theatre, visit www.chicagothemusical.com.au for details.
Chicago the Musical
Her Majesty's Theatre
219 Exhibition Street, Melbourne
www.chicagothemusical.com.au
Corporate Chauffeurs
Ph:1300 794 017
Operating 24 hours, seven days a week (including public holidays)
www.corporatechauffeurs.com.au
What's on
Australian Malaysian Film Festival
As part of Malaysian Week 2009, the Australian Malaysian Film Festival kicks off next Sunday at ACMI in Federation Square.
Where: Where: ACMI, Federation Square
When: 4 - 7 October 2009
More: Ph 8663 2583 or visit www.amff.com.au
Thomas and Friends Live On Stage
If you're looking for something to entertain the little ones these school holidays, don't miss Thomas and Friends Live On Stage: A Circus Comes To Town, for three days only!
Where: Hisense Arena
When: 2 - 4 October 2009
More: Ph 132 849 or visit www.thomasandfriends.com/live/
St George Melbourne Marathon
Get your running shoes on because registrations are still open for the St George Melbourne Marathon on 11 October. With various distances to choose from, there is a run for everyone.
When: 11 October 2009
More: Visit www.melbournemarathon.com.au
