Episode 7: 13 May 2006
This week the Postcards journey begins at Mt Macedon with Bridget and Dermott checking out the views and meandering through sleepy towns on the way to the Avoca Races. Dermott and Bridget stumble across the Ponderosa, an outback setting from the Wild, Wild West, and then Dermott fulfils his childhood ambition and drives a train from Maldon to Castlemaine. Bridget discovers Buda, a house filled with years of family history in Castlemaine. Lawrence tries his hand in amateur theatre at Red Stitch Theatre Company and realises his stage talent. Glen and Lauren place a few bets and meet the locals at the Avoca Races.
Mt Macedon Memorial Cross
Built in 1932 by a private citizen, the Mt Macedon War Memorial Cross stands 21 metres tall and commemorates the Anzacs who fought in World War One. Perched at the top of Mt Macedon, you'll also see a bird's eye view of Melbourne, just an hours drive away, and surrounds. There are tearooms over looking the cross serving scones, light lunches and home made cakes.
Top of the Range Tearooms
Ph 03 5427 3466
Film Location Set – Kattemingga
Approximately 90 kilometres from Melbourne, near Trentham, you'll find the backdrop to the recent Australian television series, The Ponderosa. This town has been recreated to resemble Australia in the 19th century and features over 20 Australian and American colonial buildings. The town boasts a long list of productions that have utilised the set, like The Man From Snowy River and many television commercials. There is support available should you need it while filming on the set, including a production designer, art directors, props and wardrobe support as well as livestock and transport.
Beaches Lane, Newbury
Ph 03 5424 1415
www.kattemingga.com.au
Avoca Races
Glen shows Lauren Newton a thing or two about placing a bet at the Avoca Races. The Avoca Racecourse's ANZAC Day celebrations are a feast of fun, entertainment and racing for all the family. Showcasing a wide range of gourmet food stalls and local Mount Avoca wines to sample, there's plenty of free entertainment for the kids and live music for all the family.
Race Course Road, Avoca
Ph 03 5422 3885
www.avocaraceclub.com
Pyrenees Pies & Takeaway
Kevin Russell has always had a thing about pies. At his milk bar now general store he makes as many varieties as possible, catering for every taste. There are nearly 50 great pies on the menu, from the humble meat pie to the exotic crocodile and prawn. There are plenty of options for vegetarians, seafood lovers and those who have a sweet tooth.
120 High Street, Avoca
Ph 03 5465 3280
Maldon – Drive A Train
As a child Dermott always wanted to grow up and become a train driver (and play football of course), so the Maldon Driver Experience Program is perfect for him. Unfortunately, he finds it a little more difficult than he had imagined. The journey begins in Maldon and takes about 40 minutes to pass through Muckleford on its way to Castlemaine.
Maldon first rose to prominence in the 1850s with the discovery of gold bringing many people to the region. The extension of the railway line provided transport and communication to these isolated areas. Today the work of those men, and the many volunteers, ensure that this is a journey into the past as well as the present.
With a lot of help from the experts, Dermott eventually reaches Castlemaine. Castlemaine is another town steeped in gold mining history and there are a number of shops worth checking out. Dermott makes his way to the Restorers Barn, which is home to every little knick knack imaginable and is a trip down memory lane with a huge range of relics.
Maldon Station, Maldon
Ph 03 5475 1451
Castlemaine – Buda Historical Home
Buda Historical Home in Castlemaine was built in 1861 and from 1863 was the home of Ernest Leviny and his family. Ernest and his wife had 10 children, five of whom were daughters that never married. The home was filled with artistic and well accomplished women and the home and gardens now contain pieces of their artwork. Buda is open from Wednesday to Saturday and provides guided tours, lunch and a gift shop for browsing.
42 Hunter Street, Castlemaine
Ph 03 5472 1032
Red Stitch Theatre
Lawrence decides to try out his theatre skills and ventures to Red Stitch Theatre, a company boasting many popular and successful productions. Opposite the famous Astor Theatre in Chapel Street, St Kilda, the Red Stitch produces quality stage performances with 14 permanent actors.
Rear 2, Chapel Street, St. Kilda
Ph 03 9533 8083
www.redstitch.net
What's on
Mothers' Day Classic, supporting the National Breast Cancer Foundation
When: Sunday 14 May
More: thatsmelbourne.com.au
NRL Rugby League Round 10, Melbourne Storm v North Queensland
When: 13–14 May
Where: Olympic Park
More: thatsmelbourne.com.au
Rugby Union Test Match, Qantas Wallabies v England
When: Saturday 17 June. Tickets on sale Wednesday 17 May
More: thatsmelbourne.com.au
