NOVEMBER 2 0 1 5 ISSUE 41 Hill ’n’ Ridge Community Newsletter A COMMUNITY NEWSLETT ER PUBLISHED BY RED HILL DISTRICT LIONS CLUB INC PO BOX 72 RED HILL S OUTH 3937 Email: [email protected] Website: lionsredhill.vic.lions.org.au U P C O M I N G A New Playground at Red Hill... E V E N T S The Red Hill Memorial preschool’s new playground was officially opened on Friday 23 Oct. In the redevelopment

NOVEMBER the outdoor room has been renovated, new structures built, old favourites retained and hardy new plants incorporated into the design. The new play equipment is designed to encourage children to explore their 6 Music on the Hill - Suzannah Espie, The Yearlings, Chris Commerford environment and to participate in cooperative play. In her address to the gathering of parents and supporters, Erin Taylor, president of the preschool committee, thanked those who were involved in the construction of the 6 Schools Science Expo playground or had contributed financially to the redevelopment.

6 ADFAS—Painting in France

7 Red Hill Market

8 Arthurs Seat Challenge

11 Remembrance Day wreath laying.

15 Red Hill Country Fair RH Consolidated School

15 Picnic day at Elgee Park 11-3

20 Coast Trek - Cape Shank -Pt Nepean

27 Christmas Cracker . . . to support youth at risk

27 RH Cricket Club Twilight Market RH Recreation Reserve Enjoying the new playground Gary Sanford (Bendigo Bank) Lyn Connor (RH Lions) and 29 Portsea Market Karen McSarland (MPSC) cutting the ribbon to open ...and a new Piste at Main Ridge the new playground DECEMBER Two mainstays 4 Music on the Hill- he Mae Trio, of the petanque Broads playing group, 5 Red Hill Market Trevor and

12 Carols on the Hill Sandra Ripper, showing how it JANUARY is played. 1 Music on the Hill -Rob Snarski

2 Red Hill Market

17 2016 Two Bays Trail Run – For more on

17 Portsea Market the Petanque At the official opening of the new petanque piste, from left, Piste opening, 19 Hill’n’Ridge Community Celebration Bowls and Petanque Club Secretary, Jonathan O’Sullivan, Merv see story page 7 FEBRUARY Prosser, Dromana Rotary, Cr Tim Wood, Bowls and Petanque Club President Jonathan Hodgkin, Martin Dixon, MP, cutting the 7 Jayco Herald Sun Tour ribbon and Petanque leader, Sandra Ripper.

Deadline for REMEMBRANCE DAY DeadlineIssue 42 WREATH LAYING for December 2ND Wednesday Issue 3 Please email articles, dates of We sell and manage rural, beach and residential real estate from 11 November events, photos and Merricks to Flinders, Main Ridge to Shoreham ....and Red Hill of course! information to Red Hill War Memorial June 16th Phillip McNeill-Young |Licensed Estate Agent |Direct (03) 5989 2364 | Mobile 0428 148 693 Jacobs [email protected] 10.45 am Include events for & Lowe 81 Arthurs Seat Rd. Red Hill [email protected] | jacobsandlowe.com.au | JANUARY, FEBRUARY, MARCH 2016 This newsletter is delivered to all residential mail boxes in Red Hill and Main Ridge with the All welcome compliments of Phillip McNeill-Young from the Red Hill Office of Jacobs & Lowe Estate Agents.

The Red Hill District Lions Club Incorporated do their best to ensure the accuracy of the information provided in this publication but do not take any responsibility for any claim, demand or other loss however caused by reliance on any information or content found within. Any views or opinions contained on these pages are those of the author(s) and not those of the Publisher. HILL ’N’ RIDGE P A G E 1

TED ORI IS STILL CREATING THE FLAVOUR OF TUSCANY Sapori Di Casa, translates to ‘the flavour of home’. For Ted Ori the flavour of home is the flavour of Tuscany. So, it is a very apt name for the little Italian restaurant run by Ted and his wife Helen in what was formerly the Whitehill Gallery, in White Hill Road, Dromana.

After operating La Campagna, a home than a restaurant. vineyard, olive grove and osteria at Cape Reaching La Campagna seemed like an Schanck for 20 years Ted, now 70, endless drive with the olive trees flanking played with the idea of retirement, but the dirt road, reminding visitors of taking only briefly. He soon surrendered to his a drive through the Italian countryside. desire to provide a place where his long Despite its isolation and the fact that in- standing patrons and friends could the-know locals swore to keep it to continue to gather to enjoy his food and themselves, people found it and flocked hospitality. Hence his creation of this there for lunch from Friday to Sunday to local venue, seating about 20 in rustic enjoy whatever Ted and Helen decided surroundings – including laminated to cook that day. “It was not 5 stars, they tables - where authentic Italian food like were coming to a family. If you are going lasagne and focaccia are offered along to friends you don’t ask what you will be Ted Ori loves cooking in his wood-fired oven with wood-fired bread and roasts. A eating,” Ted said. small selection of Italian wine is available as well as his favourite Tuscan red which electrician skills working in a glass Ted Ori made his first wine when he was he generously dispenses along with a factory in Carlton designing shatter-proof 13 years old and he enthusiastically took good measure of light hearted proprietor- and heat-proof glass. Although he loved, it up again at La Campagna, doing a patron interaction. and still loves creating electrical short course at Burnley to update his Ted operates on a very simple inventions, in 1973 he chose to enter the knowledge. His first vintage there was in philosophy: “I cook what I like the way I food industry, putting into practice the 1998. “We grew the grapes, picked like it and that is what I offer. If that’s knowledge and experience he gained them, crushed them, made the wine and what the customers like they will come,” growing up in Italy working alongside his bottled and labelled it,” he said. he said. parents in the kitchen. First he sold ‘Tuscan Red’ was one of his special Not surprisingly it’s a family affair. barbequed chickens at Camberwell blends and he still has some in the cellar Helen, a talented cook, does a lot of the Market for 31/2 days a week, then to share with patrons. He used no egg or cooking and their daughter Red comes moved to Toorak Village to operate milk and used tannins extracted from the on the weekends and often changes Golden Brown take-away. Then for 25 grape skin rather than preservatives. batons with Helen – Red takes over in years he ran The Gourmet Roast Sapori Di Casa could be described as a the kitchen and Helen adjourns to their Carvery in Toorak, offering a full range of scaled down version of La Campagna, a home next door and looks after the two carved meats and vegetables to take down-sizing to suit the talents and young grandchildren. home – no seating to dine there, just capacities of a couple who have reached Ted Ori came to Australia in 1963 when take-away. In the early 1990s Ted retirement age but still want to provide a he was 17 years old. Although tempted, and Helen bought 12 hectares of rolling special brand of hospitality. It is Red he did not join a lot of his young fellow land at Cape Schanck, planted three Hill’s good fortune that Ted and Helen countrymen who travelled north to cut hectares of vines and about 2500 olive Ori chose to ‘retire’ here. As one of my cane in the season, where they could trees and La Campagna was born. Later local dining companions said as he earn big money. “I saw them come back they built an environmentally sensitive tucked into his Polpette (Italian and lose all their money playing cards house with a dining room tucked in under meatballs), “Why go to Italy when you with men in Melbourne who played cards the house. It could seat 30 people and can come here?” – RB. for a living,” he said. Rather he used his was run more like a part of the family RED HILL MOTORS TO CLOSE ITS DOORS Alan Pittock will close the doors of Red biggest workshop on the Peninsula. Hill Motors for the last time on Friday Reflecting on his 51 years at Red Hill afternoon, November 13, ending 66 Motors Alan singles out one thing that years of continuous service the garage gives him pride. “Most of the apprentices has given to vehicle owners in Red Hill that have done their training here have and district. For 51 of those years Alan gone on to succeed in their own has been in that workshop, initially in businesses. So I must have been doing partnership with his father Elgar until something right,” he said. 1998, and since then as the sole “Many well- known local families have proprietor. been bringing their vehicles here since “I have been unsuccessful in trying to the 1950s and I thank them most sell the business and very reluctantly I sincerely for their patronage and their have decided to close down,” he said. loyalty,” he said. He nearly sold the whole business in Now 67, Alan is looking forward to 2007. Then in 2009, not wanting to run a seeing what it is like to have a life in 7 day a week business himself, he Alan Pittock, reflecting on his 51 years at Red Hill Motors retirement. leased the front of the building to United “I have never had a holiday of more than Fuel to run a longer hours petrol station much smaller area. two weeks in a row and I’m looking while he continued to operate the Alan, the oldest of four sons, joined the forward to some caravanning, pottering workshop for mechanical repairs and business at the age of 16 as an around the 20 acre farm and even going servicing. apprentice motor mechanic and went on overseas,” he said. When Alan’s parents, Elgar and Gladys to be a partner with his father. It is the end of an era and Red Hill Pittock took over the garage in 1949 the In 1985-86 the workshop and petrol Motors and the personal service given by petrol bowsers were on the roadside and station was expanded making it the Alan Pittock will be missed by many the dirt-floored workshop covered a locals for a variety of reasons. –RB. HILL ’N’ RIDGE P A G E 2

Heritage Place Award Community Park Update SCOUTS CELEBRATE for the War Memorial The Red Hill Community Park on the 80 YEARS corner of Point Leo and Shoreham Roads Red Hill Community Association is proud is forging ahead and should almost be 1st Red Hill Scouts will be celebrating to receive an award for the construction of complete in time for a grand opening day their 80th birthday on 15th October, a Red Hill's new War Memorial in the celebration on the Australia Day long- fantastic milestone. program run jointly by the National Trust, weekend in January. As usual they have been out and about Mornington Peninsula Branch, and the The last of the pine trees in the carpark with loads of different activities in all Mornington Peninsula Shire. area at Callanans Road have now been sections. A new category of Creation of a Heritage removed. This means we will have access Our Venturers headed up by Jessie Place was introduced this year, and we are to a large parking area devoid of hard Jones went on a interstate transport hike honoured to be the inaugural recipients of surfaces, and the Shire will formalise the from Melbourne to Sydney, Canberra this award. The certificate was presented locations for cars and horse floats. The and back to Melbourne using as many to RHCA President David Maddocks by process is under review with the Shire. different modes of transport as they the National Trust, Mornington Peninsula There will be a rural style ‘playspace’ with could. Investing one of our scouts into the Venturer section in Sydney harbour. Our Scout section with Andrew Millar in charge just completed a four day pioneer camp with preparation of the 2016 Jamboree coming up in Sydney at the beginning of January.

swings and a carousel, an interactive play Felicity Jackson (RHCA) David Maddocks (RHCA President) area, climbing logs and balancing course judy walsh ( National Trust) Kerry Watson (RHCA) plus an undercover shelter with tables and Branch, President Judy Walsh. chairs and an outdoor barbeque area. This The appeal for funds to complete Stage 2 will be complemented with Indigenous Workers mulching the newly planted park of constructing the War Memorial is still landscaping that is in harmony with the open and we are only $15,000 short of our local area. An information shelter is also target. This stage includes finishing off the planned that details the history of the area concrete slab and providing seating on the and the rail trail, as well as information on edge of the slab. Information on how to the Indigenous flora, fauna and custom. send your donation can be found on our The Red Hill Community Association has Red Hill Scouts at the 4 day Pioneer Camp website: www.redhillcommunityassociatio been driving the development of the n.com or phone Felicity Jackson on 0438 community park and will be organising the Three scouts, Nat, Chloe and Jemiah, 425 815. Please dig into your pockets so opening day celebrations for all to enjoy. also completed a 2 day Blue Cord Hike we can finish the job properly! Funding efforts for the Red Hill war from Rosebud to Cape Schanck, Passers-by will have noticed that a great memorial continue. “RHCA is still seeking camping overnight in Greens Bush. They amount of planting has been done on the donations from the community and the carried all their food, water and camping periphery of the community park and public to complete the memorial,” said gear, which is a great effort. around the War Memorial. This has been RHCA President David Maddocks. Our cubs have also been out camping mainly of grasses and sedges, with some “We don't have so very far to go to reach with a camp at Mt Martha’s Bay Park. eucalypts included as well. We are looking our target, and we’d welcome donations Both our scout and cub section is full to forward to watching the park develop and from people who have not yet contributed capacity with a waitlist and we are becoming a drawcard for locals and to this very worthwhile project”. RCHA looking at recruiting more leaders. visitors alike over the summer months. gives thanks to all those, whether named Our group is planning a big family camp Felicity Jackson RHCA or anonymous, who have donated to date. to be held at Point Leo in November. This is a wonderful opportunity for the youth and their parents and siblings to all get involved in a fun filled weekend. OP SHOP DONATIONS MEET LOCAL NEEDS If your going to the Red Hill market, look out for our wood-fired scones and billy Red Hill Op Shop was proud make . . . and special openings for tea stall which is run by our scouts and donations to two worthy local causes parents. recently. The first was to Rosebud the festive season Hospital, which needed funds to purchase two very specific types of bed The Op Shop will hold two Twilight for patients whose mobility is limited. Openings before Christmas. Mums, The hospital relies on donations for this Dads and children who can’t get to us sort of purchase and was delighted to during our normal opening hours can receive a cheque for $7,580 from the Op come along to do their Christmas Shop. The second donation went to Red shopping, get together for a chat and Hill Consolidated School, which had a enjoy the party atmosphere. The two dates are Wednesday 2nd December pressing need for a 6’ x 3’ portable th awning that would provide shade to the from 4-7 pm and Saturday 19 children when they are at a sports day or December from 5-8 pm. As well as similar events. The Op Shop gladly tempting items to buy as Christmas gifts, responded to the request, and the there will be music and refreshments awning has been purchased just in time available on each evening. Do come along – we’d love to see you! Marion Trevellyan ( Op Shop) presenting for what is forecast to be a hot summer the cheque to a representative of Rosebud ahead. hospital

HILL ’N’ RIDGE P A G E 3

Social Entrepreneurs Landcare – Looking after our Design Arthurs Seat Eco Backyard The second year of the Sheepwash Creek Adventure Park Catchment Landcare Group has been one of progress on many fronts. A world class community eco-adventure Firstly there has been the involvement with park has been designed for the the Green Army in an extensive woody Mornington Peninsula by a group of weed eradication within the Arthurs Seat intrepid social entrepreneurs. A large State Park. Parks Victoria were successful block of land on Boundary Road, with a Good Neighbour Grant last year and Dromana known locally as ‘The OT have also been working along the boundary Paddocks’ has been ear marked for a of the state park. land swap between Parks Victoria and Secondly the group has undertaken Mornington Shire for the ‘purposes of several working bees to continue the woody recreation’. Parks Victoria has taken the lead by weed eradication (again in the State Park) endorsing an extensive network of that was commenced in the first year, this mountain bike trails in the State Park. has seen regrowth stopped in its tracks and The proposed adventure park links indications of native species regeneration. directly into this trail network allowing The other exciting project is that of the visitors to explore Arthur’s Seat and Biolink for properties within the Sheepwash beyond. The existing roadside network Creek Catchment. The support from caters for travellers who explore the property owners has been extensive and many tourist destinations around the I’m sure that this project will continue to Peninsula. create a lot of interest. Using examples of successful adventure We've asked our members what they think parks from around the world, the design of landcare and here's what they've said: team have produced a concept plan “I enjoy being part of the land care group combining the very best mountain bike because it has given me the opportunity to park elements with adventure play, connect with a local community. We share fitness circuits, assault courses as well the responsibility of maintaining a corner of as catering for the more relaxing the Peninsula that we feel passionate Key stakeholders and community about. We learn what is a weed and what is representatives have been involved in an pastimes of yoga, dog walking and jogging. not, how to remove unwanted species intense period of consultation and whilst encouraging native flora & fauna.” discussion to create a design that The very latest in technology has been employed as part of the ‘Indigenous “I enjoy being part of the community and responds to the site’s natural sloped giving back to the area I love. It’s wonderful topography and proximity to Arthur’s Heritage Interpretative Trail’. Augmented reality points around the trail network will to see how much we’ve achieved.” Seat State Park. “It gives people an opportunity to give back The Red Hill Riders Mountain Bike promote interactive video engagement on visitor’s smart devices. These to the environment. We all get so much out Club’s President, Mark Gardner, recently of the environment that it’s nice to put travelled to Valmont Bike Park in interactions can be tailored to the individual needs of the visitor, whether something back into it to improve it.” Colorado, USA to see first hand the “I enjoy Landcare membership, even fantastic community energy generated they are school children learning about cultural history or ornithologists though I am not a rural landholder, because by similar adventure parks. I hear about rural issues and can contribute Mark was blown away by the range of observing birds. Variable experiences and discovery are what make Arthur’s in a small way to improving a specific people using the park from young kids ecology - Sheepwash Creek. It is a chance learning from their parents up to vintage Seat Adventure Park really special. A multi-purpose community hall which to put beliefs into action and because it is riders keeping fit. He also saw three an Australia wide organisation, it has Summer Camp groups taking advantage doubles as a visitor centre complete with changing rooms and event centre has achieved great results over the years. of the facilities with young people being There is a sense of hope in difficult times.” exposed to physical and social skill also been incorporated. The design allows for adaption to whatever user “For us landcare is just that—caring for the development. What a great way to land. Conservation is not about doing promote healthy living for all the group is taking advantage of the facility. Using solar panels and battery storage nothing, it is about taking action that will community. The Peninsula offers a have a long term beneficial result for this fabulous destination, this new park will the community hub echoes the ‘eco- activity’ ethos of the proposed adventure fabulous earth and environment that we live provide a massive boost for the stay- in.” cation and visitor sector. park development. Activity tourism is a substantial resource Much of the Peninsula is spoiled due to for the Mornington Peninsula with its weed infestation. Being a part of Landcare extensive tourism infrastructure. enables us to at least act to clean up our Examples of recreational developments “Backyard” from around the world have If you would like to be a part of our demonstrated the exponential financial Landcare group please contact Michelle de benefits to the wider business la Coeur, our secretary, on 0419 579 277 community as well as providing Andrew Duncan exceptional facilities for the local President community at large. The proposed Sheepwash Creek Catchment Landcare Group adventure park taps into the explosion in interest in mountain biking and active living. Finance for the project will be through a combination of legacy and fund raising initiatives. To find out more about this exciting project or to have your say please visit www.arthursseatadventurepark.com HILL ’N’ RIDGE P A G E 4

Contact us to discuss your farming requirements

DENIS DELANEY

A-Grade Electrician Prompt attention to all your electrical needs in Red Hill and District

Small jobs, renovations, innovative lighting solutions JT Farm Contracting We are based in Main Ridge and offer a Phone 0418 171829 or 5981 8129 wide range of farm contracting services including: No job too small!  Farm fencing  Building wooden gates  Pasture renovation  Fertilizer and lime spreading  Haymaking and hay supply  Livestock management  Property management  Weed control Call Jonathan to discuss how we can help you 0407 896 484 or 5989 6484

MAIN RIDGE BOWLS and PETANQUE CLUB OFFERS:  Club House seating up to 120  Licensed Bar Facilities  Two Full Sized Greens – 14 Rinks  Competition-size Petanque Piste  Personal Accredited Coaches Sales, Rentals,  Bowls Equipment for Loan Holiday Lettings  BBQ Facilities Campaigning to give a voice to the Red Open 7 days  Idyllic Rural Environment Hill and Red Hill South communities Proud Sponsor  Social Bowls and Coaching every .to protect and preserve the rural character Friday from 3.30 pm followed by .to create an informed and active community 5 pm Happy Hour (all welcome) .to provide a forum for community engagement www.rtedgar.com.au .to advocate on behalf of the community NEWCOMERS TO BOWLS ESPECIALLY Flinders WELCOME! Join RHCA today

CONTACT JONATHAN HODGKIN 5989 6006\ Help preserve and protect your community 5989 0599

JONATHAN O’SULLIVAN 0423 704 185 5989 2116 [email protected]

HILL ’N’ RIDGE P A G E 5

SWEET PITTOSPORUM CAN BE REMOVED WITHOUT PERMIT At last the Shire has starves other species of sunlight. As if alikes" such as changed the rules this was not enough, the tree drops indigenous to allow landowners leaves and because these contain a muttonwood to remove Sweet chemical inhibitor this process prevents ( r a p a n e a Pittosporum from their land without a local indigenous vegetation from growing howittiana) - which permit. This effectively recognises that beneath it, thus assisting the species to is a "goodie". The this Australian plant has become a dominate an area quickly. This feature, i m a g e o f serious invasive weed on the Mornington combined with Sweet Pittosporum's Muttonwood below Peninsula. Sweet Pittosporoum, of the capacity to establish itself very quickly, was created by family pittosporaceae, is a vigorous starving surrounding plants of nutrients, I a i n H a r ri s o n evergreen tree which grows about 14- water and sunlight, works to create a (2005). See 15m high and lives for about 40 years. It virtual monoculture. Swinburne Image is sometimes called native daphne Adaptability. This species is very Bank. because of its sweet perfume and is adaptable. It is tolerant of shade, frost Further reading: indigenous to SE Victoria where it grows and drought, very prolific, and can Kate Blood, Environmental Weeds: A in the moist rainforests between the establish itself quickly in a wide variety of Field Guide for SE Australia, CRC Weed Great Dividing Range and the Pacific. situations. In every respect it is built for Management Systems, Bloomings Why then do we regard this Australian survival, so its removal is a challenge. Books, 2001; and Leon Costermans, plant as a weed? Although this species How to remove Sweet Pittosporum? Native Trees and Shrubs of South- prefers moist shaded sites such as Winter to summer is the recommended Eastern Australia, Weldon Publishing, riparian environments and damp forests, time for removal by all methods except 1992 edition; R.M.Gleadow & D.H. it is rapidly invading and radically for hand-pulling which can be done all Ashton, "Invasion by Pittosporum changing the diverse ecological year round. Undulatum of the Forests of Central vegetation communities (EVCs) around Hand pulling is only recommended for Victoria.1. Invasion Patterns and Plant us. In so doing it is changing the small seedlings, because it is important Morphology", Australian Journal of ecology of the region and impacting local that all root material is removed to Botany, 29(6), 1981, pp. 705-20. indigenous fauna and flora. prevent re-shooting. A mattock gives Bernie Schedvin What characteristics have contributed to excellent leverage for removing larger Main Creek Landcare Sweet Pittosporum becoming a weed on seedlings when the ground is slightly the Mornington Peninsula? moist. Abundant reproduction. The fragrant Cut and paint. Plants should be cut off A WONDERFUL PLANTING bell-shaped five-petalled flowers are close to ground level and the stump DAY WITH MANTON & creamy white and about 2 cm long. immediately (within 30 seconds) painted They occur in clusters of 4-5 at the ends with undiluted glyphosate-based product. STONY CREEKS LANDCARE th of stems in spring. Male and female A dabber is good for this. This technique Saturday September 26 saw more flowers almost works well for larger seedlings, but planting on the biolinks corridor from always occur on should not be used on trunks greater Manton Creek to Stony Creek. An separate plants. than 50mm as they are likely to reshoot. enthusiastic group of members took part. Fruits are globular Drill & Fill (a) or Frill & Fill (b). a) Drill As we were working close to Stony hard berries about 10 holes 2-3 cm deep and about 5 cm apart -15mm across, which at the base of the tree and immediately start green, turn fill the holes with undiluted glyphosate- yellow and then based product OR (b) chop downwards orange when ripe vertically all around the base of the tree when they split to reveal 20-30 sticky with a small hatchet and immediately fill reddish or brown seeds within. These the holes with undiluted glyphosate- plentiful seeds are mainly bird-dispersed, based product. This is best done during either in their droppings or by adhering to the active growth stage (late spring to feathers. mid-autumn). This technique is suited to Clusters of seedlings under perch trees larger trees. Preference should be given testify to the success of this method, but to dealing first with female fruiting trees. Creek we had to install wallaby guards to seeds can also be carried on the fur of Fire? Kate Blood (2001) has remarked protect the plants. The local wildlife have mammals such as possums, or adhering that sweet pittosporum are susceptible to a tendency to eat their corridor after a to human footwear. Seeds germinate in intense bushfires because of their thin drink in the creek. We put up 10 wire spring or autumn and the new plants bark but she also states that they will cage-10 guards each large enough to flower when 4-5 years old and when 1m usually survive low intensity burns and hold two or three plants. Soon we will not tall or less. This species can also spread are likely to coppice vigorously. The have to do much more planting as the by suckering. foliage is extremely flammable even indigenous plants will self seed and the Noxious foliage. Sweet pittosporum has when green, and will flare and spit and whole corridor will thicken. This will smooth shiny dark green leaves (paler or we are advised not to allow them to grow provide safe passage for the small glabrous beneath), which are resinous close to our homes. marsupials to travel. and aromatic when crushed. The leaf So Pittosporum Undulatum is not so Our AGM is on Saturday Nov. 7th at margins are smooth and wavy (hence "sweet". It is not declared "noxious" in 11.30 in the Shoreham Hall and you "undulatum") with a small hooked point. Victoria, but it is "invasive" and should be are more than welcome to attend. The New leaves emerge in winter- spring and eradicated on your property if at all speaker this year is Malcolm Legg of form in whorls at the end of twigs. But possible. This may be an ongoing battle Mals Ecological & Environmental have you noticed that nothing eats where pittosporum persists on adjoining Services. He will be talking about the them? Neither grubs nor beetles predate properties or in nearby bushland, but if different types of creeks on the their stems and glossy foliage; not even we want to retain the diversity Peninsula and the aquatic life they rabbits, wallabies or possums will nibble characteristic of local EVCs and the creatures which inhabit them it is an support. on them. The tree creates a dense Ann-Heather White effort worth making. canopy which shades the ground and Manton & Stony Creeks Landcare A note of caution: Watch out for "look-

HILL ’N’ RIDGE P A G E 6

A new season begins. . . St George’s Church marks NEW PETANQUE PISTE

The bowling season has kicked off and Feast day of St Francis OPENED AT MAIN RIDGE once again Main Ridge Bowlers will be A French flag flying outside the Main fielding a Division 1 and Division 5 team. On 4th October, the church came alive Ridge Bowls and Petanque Club on The greens have awoken from their winter not only to the sound of music, but also Sunday, October 25, partly recognised hibernation and are in the best condition the occasional bark, when members of that petanque is a French game, but they have been for some time. the congregation and visitors brought mainly signalled the opening of a new their pets to a special service to mark the petanque piste that day. Feast Day of St Francis which included About 90 people witnessed the official the Blessing of the Animals. It was a opening by the Hon. Martin Dixon, local joyful occasion and all the animals were MP, who congratulated the Club on extremely well-behaved. All enjoyed achieving the new piste and praised the chats and pats with refreshments on the initiative of leaders of Main Ridge verandah after the service. Bowls Club and Red Hill Petanque Club for seeing the reality of their respective situations and taking the opportunity to merge into one club. Thanking Club President, Jonathan Hodgkin, puts everyone concerned both Jonathan down the first bowl of the new season. Hodgkin, President of the Bowls Club and Sandra Ripper, President of the The Petanque players are also in full Petanque Club acknowledged that the swing with their regular Friday night merging of the two clubs into one and competitions and are now also playing on building the new piste had taken a lot of the second and fourth Sundays of the month either side of a very civilised BBQ effort over the last two years. However, lunch. they agreed the result was worth it - an The summer promises much. improved facility for petanque players Come and join us every Friday afternoon and improved viability for a Bowls Club for either Social Bowls or Petanque that was declining in membership. Red followed by drinks and tapas in the bar Hill ward councillor Tim Wood added afterwards. his congratulations before Martin Dixon Charlie, owned by Glythyn Campbell receives cut the ribbon and the gathering Hasta Luego! Jonathan O'Sullivan a blessing from the Revd. Fiona Goy adjourned to enjoy a delicious afternoon tea, organised by Sam An All Souls Service of Remembering Hamilton. Later some petanque players th will be held at St. George’s on Wed 4 . gave a demonstration on the new piste. November. It provides a quiet time to Martin Dixon also opened the Red Hill reflect on significant people in our lives Hill Petanque Club in March 2011 who have died. Candles will be lit in their constructed by the Red Hill Lions Club memory. at the Red Hill Recreation Reserve. Christmas Services - A warm Lions has also played a key role in the invitation is extended to everyone to building of the new piste at Main Ridge Cricket Club attend the following services: th with Rob Connor chairing the Sunday 6 . December at 9.30am: construction committee. TWILIGHT MARKET Feast Day of St. Nicholas The new piste was funded with a Red Hill Recreation (children and the young at heart substantial Government grant together Reserve especially welcome) th with funds from the Bowls Club, Saturday 12 . December at 5pm: Petanque Club, Red Hill Lions and Nov 27 Carols on the Hill, hosted by St. George’s at the Red Hill Dromana Rotary. Council officers 5 pm – 9pm Recreation Reserve. presided over the construction.

th Craft / Food / Art / Friday 18 . December at 8pm: The combined Club now boasts 123 members - 30 lawn bowlers, 56 Jewellery / Gifts Nine Lessons and Carols Christmas Eve, 24th. December at petanque players and 37 social Children’s Entertainment 11.30pm: Midnight Mass members. Social members are th Christmas Day, 25 . December: attracted to the Club to participate in 8am – Intergenerational Celebratory the Friday evening Happy Hour where Service members of the local community are 10am – Intergenerational Celebratory being welcomed. –RB. Service with Children’s Nativity H E THOMAS TRANSPORT PTY LTD Tableau Family Business Since 1950 The response for this issue has been David & Anne Thomas, fantastic but unfortunately the Dale & Mandi Thomas CONTACT LIST DOMESTIC WATER CARTAGE has been omitted once more to make room for all the news items submitted by GENERAL CARTAGE our community. LOW LOADER If you need to contact community 5989 6083 organisations please email [email protected] [email protected] 580 Main Creek Rd, MAIN RIDGE and we will email the contacts to you.

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History Corner with Jill Phillips “The Showpiece of Victoria” - History of Red Hill Consolidated and the eight small MP schools which closed in 1950

Formal education on the south eastern road. He refused to sell. That was until he June 1949 the Ministry thought that by section of the Mornington Peninsula was notified his land would be bringing the local school buildings onto commenced prior to December 9th 1869 compulsorily acquired. After several the site the school may be ready to start – the first verifiable date from an entry in deputations to him he agreed to sell but at in 1950. Unfortunately the water supply the Inspector’s Book for the Flinders only £17.0.0 per acre. He complained hadn’t been taken into consideration. Common School. At about the same about the reduced price. A further 2 acres The water supply was a major problem time, a non-vested school was opened in on the eastern side was compulsorily then and for several years afterwards. In Arkwell’s Lane Red Hill which eventually acquired from the Blakeley family. November 1949 it was decided to defer was to become SS1301 Red Hill in 1874. The corner block of ½ acre still had to be the opening until May 1950. However In 1875, a school was opened in Main purchased. This land belonged to Myrtle the schools were not brought in and Ridge operating a branch of Flinders May Prossor. She agreed to sell for there was a delay in supplying water and State School and sharing teachers with £65.0.0 as long as she could remove the sanitation to an otherwise partly Cape Schank and Boneo. As the building. The whole site for the proposed completed building. By this time population increased there became a school was finally acquired in July 1944. Balnarring had decided to join the need for another school in the Red Hill The total cost was £233.16.8 consolidation. area but was not until 1932 that the Red In 1946 the Red Hill Consolidation The school was finally occupied – 289 Hill South School was officially opened in committee was notified that a Consolidated pupils - on February 6th 1951. Ted Point Leo Road. school would be one of the 12 Bowley was the first Headmaster. Two The idea of consolidating rural schools consolidated schools built by 1948 more classrooms were added soon after was a feature of Victorian Education in Plans for the school were received in and on May 6th 1952 the buildings from the middle of 1940s. The concept was February 1947. The estimated cost of the Red Hill South and Main Ridge were put to the Red Hill community. Members building was £39,800. Construction shifted on site followed by Merricks a of the Education Department spoke at commenced in mid 1948 In June 1948 week later. public meetings at the Red Hill Hall and members of the Ministry and P.W.D. At the time, the Education Department films were shown of the successful Area inspected the initial excavation of the site proudly labelled the school “The schools already set up in Tasmania. works. A model of the school to be built by Showpiece Of Victoria” P.W.D. was made by the architecture In 1944 the Education Department In April 2000, a reunion of ex students students of Melbourne Tech. This model decided to acquire land for the future and staff members of all schools toured the Inspectorate. In November 1948 establishment of a Consolidated School involved in the consolidation provided a list of schools to take part in at Red Hill. Mr. Woodward was some wonderful anecdotes, memories consolidation included Flinders, Shoreham approached to sell 10 acres of his and photos, many of which were (then called Stony Creek), Merricks, property for the purpose. He was offered reproduced in a booklet which was made Merricks North, Red Hill South, Red Hill, £22/10 per acre for the land along the available to the attendees. Main Ridge and possibly Balnarring. In road to Arthurs Seat and the Main Ridge Rod Blair

RDA - Not Just Pony Rides Successful Red Hill Spring Garden Festival Riding for the Disabled (RDA) Peninsula A huge thank you again this year to our Centre has settled into its new home in many local Festival sponsors and the Moorooduc where our volunteers and Red Hill District Lions Club, for your horses are continuing the wonderful work contribution to this successful event. It helping our riders enjoy the therapy of was a huge effort with the community horse riding. There have been games, and our volunteers pulling together to celebrations and a dressage competition host the day. Congratulations to all with ribbons galore, which all the kids involved. enjoyed. And one rider from our Tuesday The patrons seem to have a grand time program, Brooke, competed and placed with full Expert Info Sessions, a record third at the State Championships. number of exhibitors and entries in the RDA is often incorrectly thought of as better organisation to volunteer with than Flower Show, and many purchased bags ‘just pony rides’. The reality is that RDA to help children with disabilities having or trolley loads of good garden gear. provides children and adults with all fun. The RDA Peninsula Facebook page Local schools took out new and regular kinds of disabilities an exciting platform is full of photos of smiling faces – why awards for their horticultural themed on which to perform exercises to not come and join us? Jenny Stidston pursuits. Additionally, the children’s increase their movement and ability – activities were popular and varied with much more fun than sitting on the floor. It some selling out of stock as a result. provides a social outlet and a welcoming It’s a grand time of year to be out environment where everyone is planting, pruning or mulching for the accepted, regardless of ability. coming summer. With this in mind the RDA allows children and adults alike to Red Hill Gardening Society wishes you have a sporting hobby they are able to much enjoyment in the benefits that a engage in, with wheelchairs and walking gardening lifestyle can provide. frames left behind. For riders with www.rhgs.com.au Rosie Kenney intellectual disabilities, there are no game rules to remember, and no penalties for forgetting the rules – just a lot of fun. It has been well documented that volunteering is a great way to meet people and find satisfaction in life. What

HILL ’N’ RIDGE P A G E 8 MAIN RIDGE STATE SCHOOL NO. 2481 WHO CRACKED THE WINDOW PANE ? I wonder if any member from St Georges Main Ridge State School 841 operated in Church could point out a cracked window 1877 as a branch of Flinders State School pane in the former Red Hill School SS 1301 ? 841, which had been a half-time school This building is now incorporated in the new since early 1875. Probably the Main Ridge complex. branch functioned as early as 1875. Barry Wright, former local resident was School was held near P.G. Adam’s Guest Speaker at the Dromana & District property in Flinders Road, later transferred Historical Society on Sept 15. It was most to the corner of Shands and Roberts Road, interesting to learn about the generations of then to Main Creek Road, then Barker’s Wrights. Road in the 1920’s, then to the Main Ridge In 1928, grandparents Walter and Amy Hall. Enrolments in June, 1882 were 26 at Wright purchased an orchard property on the Flinders and 19 at Main Ridge. In March Kevin Wyatt points out all that remains of the Arthurs Seat Tourist Road and named it 1893 one of the Main Ridge buildings was Main Ridge School in Barkers Rd 1920-25 ‘Wildwood “. Their home remained in the transported to Tyabb to be part of the family until 2005. Tyabb State School. In September 1892 the following Brothers Barry and Peter Wright point out the damaged window. Below:: The Old Main Ridge School in Barkers Rd

Barry recalls, ‘I walked to the Red Hill School as a 4 year old. All the pupils were scared of the Headmaster. A year later in the correspondence with the Education compensate for the extra expenditure …” playground, I threw a ball which made an Department was reported in the Eventually, Main Ridge State School 2481, awful noise as it hit and cracked the window Mornington Standard newspaper a one-roomed weatherboard building was pane.’ constructed at the corner of Main Creek “... the closing of Main Ridge School is not Mr Decker flew outside: ’Who threw that Road and Shand’s Road. There appears to looked upon with favor by the residents ball?” have been no official opening. When the interested. Whilst recognizing and Barry, expecting the worst , ‘ I did Sir, but it school closed the building was transported admitting the necessity for economizing in was an accident ,’ Mr Decker dismissed me to RHCS and the site, as with most of the various departments it is urged that a half without punishment which was a huge relief. other sites, was used as an endowment time school at each place (Main Ridge 67 years later the crack in the pane plantation. and Flinders) conducted by a classified remains. JP master would not greatly increase the cost to the state and the gain in efficiency and results might be fairly claimed to

We create beautiful landscapes Qualified, experienced & friendly team Servicing all areas of the Mornington Peninsula Call Ben Clements for a free quote 0408735100 [email protected] www.southernstylelandscapes.com.au Picnic at Elgee Park Sunday November 15 11 am—3 pm Red Hill students in grade 4 in 1954 Enquiries Jan Kirchner [email protected] Proceeds will go towards the construction of a new kitchen at St George’s Anglican Church in Red Hill to complete the work of developing a centre for the Community

HILL ’N’ RIDGE P A G E 9 From the Lions’ Den . . . MEET THE LOCALS Lions Junior Public Speaking Program Red Hill District Lions once again conducted the Junior Public Speaking contest in August. Four representatives from Red Hill Consolidated School presented to forty audience members at the Main ridge Bowls Club . The topics were selected by Lions Australia. The year 3 & 4 topic was OUR HELPERS and the 5&6 topic was A MAJOR NATURAL DISASTER. Winners at the club level were Charlie Macpherson Smith and Tui Dahlenberg Geeves who both progressed to the zone final in Tooradin in October. Charlie Tastes Success in Thirty-five local residents, representatives Public Speaking of business and community groups gathered at the Epicurean for the first Charlie Macpherson Smith, a grade 3 Red Hill Consolidated School evening session of Meet the Locals student, is an accomplished public speaker at the age of 8. hosted by the Red Hill District Lions Club. Participating in the Lions Junior Public Speaking Competition, The opportunity to meet others in the Charlie spoke passionately about the animal refuge he helps to community and interact with local business run. After success in the local club competition, Charlie people and community groups proved represented Red Hill Lions in the zone competition at Tooradin popular with many people meeting where he competed against other club winners, With success at someone new. this level he progressed to the District final held in Lakes Entrance Several people took the opportunity to tell on October 24. about their businesses or community group, and encourage involvement The Lions Club is indebted to Craig, from BERRY STREET CHRISTMAS APPEAL the Epicurean, who provided the venue The Berry Street Organisation believes every child deserves a good childhood. Red Hill and refreshments for the evening Lions have supported the Berry Street Christmas appeal for a number of years. “We look forward to holding more of these This years appeal commences on November 1 and closes on November 30th. events and interacting with our broader The goods will be delivered to the Berry Street Organisation in Richmond for community,” said Merrin Munroe, distribution to needy families. coordinator of the Meet the Locals A leaflet in this issue details appropriate gifts for a range of age groups. program. “Our community’s donation to last year’s appeal was exceptional,” said Susanne White, If you would like to participate in future appeal coordinator. events, please contact Merrin The collection boxes will be placed at the Red Hill General Store, or goods can ([email protected] ) be collected by emailing [email protected] October Market proving popular with holiday makers Once again, the October market at Red Hill proved to be very popular with holiday makers. The end of the school holidays and the new public holiday ensured there were lots of people in the area for the weekend. Many people came early and there was a steady flow throughout the morning. Lions members at work at the Red Hill market “We had a good contingent of volunteers controlling pedestrian and vehicular traffic who were extremely valuable on such a busy day,“ said market parking coordinator Rob Connor. Lions always welcome volunteers to help man the parking. No qualifications are required as volunteers are not placed on roads. (Lions’ members have completed traffic management courses to enable them to work on the roads). If you are able to assist please contact Rob on 0418545125 or email [email protected]

RAMBO - A TRUE BLUE HILLMAN 2015 was another monster year for the representatives in both the Football and Red Hill Football Netball Club with on Netball Team of the Year. But it was field/court success for both the guys Club Legend Shane “Rambo” Ramsay and girls, milestones games, league (pictured) who stole the show after he level achievements and of course a notched up an astonishing 300 club laugh or two in between. The Reserves games. While his former teammates and Senior Football teams both made celebrated the 20th Anniversary their finals while the A-Grade girls also hit 1990 Senior Premiership in the social the plexi-pave in September. RHFNC rooms, Rambo was out dominating won the Most Disciplined Club Award alongside teammates whose existence for Netball, A-Grade Netball Coach Lisa had not even been considered in 1990. Vines won the leagues Coach of the An incredible effort! Year Award and we had HILL ’N’ RIDGE P A G E 10

Tuesday Tennis at Main Ridge is Full On!

Tuesday Morning Ladies Tennis is not Two of us are part of a 6 woman team in Speaking of Ruby; think apples and for the faint hearted. Neither Rain-Ridge Section 2 of P.T.A. Mid-Week Doubles Farnsworth. Around 11:00, or if it REALLY nor Main-Fridge stops these "Tennis Competition. We play 2 Rubbers each rains, the girls go into the Speaking of Ruby; Tragics" from serving up 3 or 4 sets of Wednesday. As of the end of round 1 we think apples and Farnsworth. Around 11:00, 'full on' games from 9 am to about noon. are neck and neck with the top team. or if it REALLY rains, the girls go into the You may hear some laughter here and Go Main Ridge! clubhouse for the second most important there, but you're more likely to hear, reason for rocking up on Tuesday 'Yours', "Mine", "Go, go, go!" or "I don't mornings ... baked goodies like Ruby's do running!" Many of these stalwarts "Powder Puffs". OMG! Not to be outdone, were dangerously good competitors in many of the 19 other 'Women of the World" days gone by and they only get better bring THEIR home made sweets or with 'maturity'! They have taught the savouries and trade recipes. The table at 'younger' ones many shots to make Christmas-time is sumptuous! We look after opponents cringe ... like a 'RUBY'. If one another and celebrate life. you don't know this move, you'll have to join us and see for yourself. Membership fees are really good value for money.

Tuesday morning Ladies Tennis Group , Main Ridge Tennis Club

Ruby Farnsworth’s cakes are the envy of Main Ridge Tennis Club! Main Ridge Tennis Club is located on Main Creek Road, near the new CFA station and can be seen from the road near the Community Hall, the Oval and the Bowls Club. For this current 'Winter season' there Local Transport Firm are 5 Night teams: 1 Mixed (Mondays); 3 recognised for service to the Men's (Wednesdays); 1 Ladies (Thursdays). Itching to play? Feel free to industry contact Anne at: 5989-6128 or 0408 382 There were hundreds of people at the 453. There is much more on our Facebook recent National Road Transport Wall of Fame induction at Alice Springs, in which page so have a look & Like. Ernie Thomas of H.E. Transport ( Main Do you have children eager for fun and a Ridge ) was nominated by Keith Holmes for challenge or are you an adult wanting more recognition of a lifetime of service and winners than "OOPS" ? With the return of contribution to the Australian Road Amanda Hassett, our official Coach, juniors Transport Industry. David Thomas from Thomas Transport are thriving with inspired teaching 4 nights a Ernie’s son , David, and wife Anne made week and our Mid-Week ladies are reaping the trip to Alice Springs to receive the Among other things carried were the benefits of TACTICS! As of the end of certificate on behalf of his late father. H.E. machinery, timber and steel - anything round 1 we are neck and neck with the top Thomas transport was founded in 1943 by that needed carting was done by team. M-L Hekel Ernie and Mary his wife on returning from Thomas Transport the War. They acquired 65 acres of bush land on the corner of Purves and Main Ernie and Mary passed away in 2002, Creek Roads. In 1949, they purchased much loved and respected pioneers and Charlie Roberts’ business to expand their community members. The business is own venture and operated as a general carried on by David and his son Dale. Kim Barker, Anne Thomas, carrier in the local area and interstate. Keith Holmes and Jill Phillips CITATION included ... The business expanded and carried fertiliser, fuel, domestic water, apples to Sydney Market, potatoes, juice apples to Tom Piper, stone for Pioneer quarries, meat from Wilson abattoirs, Inghams & Golden Poultry. To keep the wheels turning over many years they purchased up to 20 trucks of all shapes and sizes.

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A Successful Year for Red Hill Tennis Club Juniors The Red Hill Tennis Club is proud to SECTION 7 Premiers SECTION 11 Semi-Finalists report the results of a successful winter season. Five of our six junior teams played in finals this season. Three of our teams played in Grand Finals, and two teams walked away Premiers.

SECTION 5 Grand Finalists

L-R Charlie Reid, Sebastian Tremayne, Andrew Cowie and Thomas Lewis L-R Finn Cracknell, Luke Kelly, Nash Jacob SECTION 9 Semi-Finalists

L-R: Byron Scott, Harrison Fox, Kieren HILL ‘n’ RIDGE Roberts and Kelsie Farrugia This newsletter is funded by our generous sponsors and advertisers with SECTION 6 Premiers any shortfall in meeting the production costs being met by the Red Hill District Lions Club inc. Now in its seventh year of publication the Lions Club regards the newsletter as its main community development project, seeking to bring very local news to the community that would otherwise be unreported. We welcome new sponsorships For further information please contact L-R Billy Balcombe, Chris Kelly, Hugo Garde L-R Samuel Gladding, Timothy Gilmour, [email protected] and Tom Gilligan Emma Robinson and Phoebe Fogarty

S GOLD SPONSOR

P O SILVER SPONSOR N S O R S

Red Hill Pharmacy Robert Nickels B.Pharm., MPS

Shop 7, Red Hill Village Shopping Centre Red Hill– Shoreham Rd Red Hill South 3937 Saturday Nov 7 Saturday Dec 5 Telephone 03 59892210 Saturday January 2 Portsea Market Nov 29 Jan 17 March 26 2016 Reward Yourself - Guardian www.craftmarkets.com.au Club Points available

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