Gecko Studio Gallery Newsletter

April May 2018

ARTIST STATEMENT

I lost my mom in 2015. It came only a few months after losing both my grandfather and my generally optimistic mindset. I came face to face with the realities of old age while caring for my 91-year-old grandmother, who passed away 10 months later. 3 of the most significant people in my life within 22 months. In the months after my mom died, it felt like my family was falling apart. I had such a shocking mental and physical reaction to this emotional weight that I became quite a stranger to myself. It was so unfamiliar in its intensity and longevity that I didn’t realise it was clinical depression. Once I started seeing a therapist, images started populating my mind and a compulsion to return to art surfaced. Neurological pathways that were overgrown and covered in spiderwebs were dusted off and given some streetlights. But here lay a very scary place for me, because I had convinced myself that I was not a ‘real’ artist. Artists had to work in a particular way and express themselves with tools in a particular way. Tools that I had not been using since my university art lecturer told me that I should follow the Graphic Design and Illustration track instead of fine art, because I would not be able to make a living as an artist. I didn’t have a natural gift for painting, sculpture and lithography, but I was perfect for the precision of visual communications. The separation in my mind between the two was so absolute that I dared not cross it, no matter how frustrated it made me. A simple sentence from the psychologist unblocked it all: I had to accept who I was. To get over the hump, I had to accept that my tools are digital: a computer, a digital pencil and an iPad screen instead of a canvas. These are fantastic tools when one needs to bust out an annual report in 2 days, but quite unsatisfying when one needs tactile experience. In my mind it was also not how ‘real’ artists work. Printmaking, of all the arts, lies the closest to my training and has opened the door to the next room, where unexpected blotches and streaks of ink can dirty up the careful and neat place I have been occupying with creative work. There is

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no ‘control-z’ button! There is, however, great joy to be found in the discipline of printmaking, especially when combined with the regimented craft of stitching and the precision needed to ensure that all the prints in a series are as identical as possible. I was raised with crafty things - sewing, knitting, pottery, batik, potato printing, lino printing. My brother and I made paper mâché circus performers and several trompe l’oeil paintings on the outside of our house. The death of my mom brought back a yearning for the freedom and safety in those crafty things. I had dreams of 70s and 80s crafts - like string art. It interrupted my usual orbit around perfect computer images. The need for imperfect things became clear. Trying to allow both perfect and imperfect things in my mind has been the most rewarding adventure. Once I started making prints I had to make peace with the next demon: even in my depression, pain and rage, my pictures turned out ‘pretty’ and whimsical. Possibly a typical symptom for people who struggle to express negative feelings. But this is who I am.

ARTIST BIOGRAPHY

Lana de Jager immigrated from South Africa to Australia in 1998 and settled in Melbourne, Victoria, mostly because of the excellent coffee. She is passionately committed to whimsy and entirely too enthusiastic about Art Nouveau, pre-1960’s music that might lead to dancing, attempting to knit, and pretending to understand science. She also works as a freelance Graphic Designer.

Lana obtained a BA Honours Degree in advertising & visual communication in 1994. The first year was a fine arts curriculum and she enjoyed it tremendously, taking part in several group exhibitions. A figure of authority suggested that she make the responsible decision and follow the graphic arts stream (sketching and airbrushing for graphic design rather than for fine art) from the second year onward to ensure that she would be able to buy her own groceries in the future. With her artistic aspirations successfully dashed, Lana followed her degree with 2 years as a lecturer [1995 - 1996] at Potchefstroom University and the East London Technical College [South Africa], teaching Graphic Design History & Techniques, History of Art and Still Life & Figure Drawing. She was also responsible for organising and advertising student exhibitions. Several continents, half a lifetime and much cognitive behaviour therapy (twitch) later and the imbalances of yesteryear have been addressed. In 2013 she returned to intaglio printmaking, but it was only in June 2016 that she became fully committed to dreaming of being a real artist. Lana uses polymer plates for intaglio printing (photogravure), with a preference for less-toxic materials and processes. Lana’s images deal with motives of loss, grief and unhappiness as experienced by optimists and people who struggle to express their feelings. These are themes that will continue to be carefully mined for quite some time to come. Lana de Jager

EXHIBITION HISTORY

1. VARIOUS STUDENT GROUP EXHIBITIONS (1990-1994) - Potchefstroom, South Africa

2. EDITIONS (February 2017) – Tacit Contemporary Art Gallery in Abbotsford, VIC. Group Exhibition.

3. TRAVERSE (Sep-Oct 2017) - Gallery@ Collins Place, Melbourne, VIC. Exhibition together with print artist, Peter Gurrie. www.facebook.com/ Exhibition Traverse/

4. SMALL WORKS ART PRIZE (December 2017) - Brunswick Street Gallery in Fitzroy, VIC. Group Exhibition.

5. EDITIONS (7-18 February 2018) - Tacit Contemporary Art Gallery in Collingwood, VIC. Group Exhibition.

6. THROUGH A GLASS, DARKLY... (9 Feb - 15 March 2018) - Gallery@ CollinsPlace, Melbourne, VIC. Group exhibition curated by Marguerite Brown.

7. TRAVERSE (May 2018) - Gallery@ CollinsPlace, Melbourne, VIC. UPCOMING Solo Exhibition.

8. INNER CIVILISATIONS (18 July – 12 August 2018) - Tacit Contemporary Art Gallery in Collingwood, VIC. UPCOMING Solo Exhibition. 2

A B

C D

A Thanatophobia - I love a beautiful dog, named Disco. He is still alive but sometimes I am overwhelmed by a sadness for when he won’t be anymore. The irrational fear of the loss of things we love comes up when a huge loss occurs. It debilitates rational thought and breaks the mind while it hangs around.

B Homesick - I am a South African living in Australia and all the years here have not diminished my love for the landscapes and animals from my home town, Kimberley. Only a short drive into the veld takes you to troupes of giraffe – the funkiest creatures – and something I’ve always identified with. ‘Homesick’ isn’t only for the landscape and animals, but also for how I feel as a being when I am there – a parallel personality to the one I have at home, in Melbourne, while sitting in a tree in my own back yard.

C Stay very still and maybe it will go away - Simple and enormous overwhelm – we all know how that feels. Sometimes we are resilient enough to face it and sometimes we not. The overwhelm of grief & loss can come in waves of such spectacular proportions that it feels like it locks us in place, with no other option but to surrender to what petrifies us.

D Time to break up with that baggage. Part of the vocabulary of our family is the concept of a person having ‘a flat tyre’. It’s more than just a lack of energy – it can be used to explain a tired & emotional child crying at the end of a big day or of an adult sitting/sagging in an armchair after too much booze. In this case it’s very much to do with feeling hopeless.

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Gecko Studio Gallery News

“Headquarters”, our café, is still going strong as the crazy times of the ‘high’ season slowly recede and we look forward to the influx of visitors during Easter. Headquarters is serving a unique wood roasted artisan coffee from Melbourne (Ricci Method), delicious teas (Calmer Sutra), including fresh chai, hot chocolates and cold drinks. Headquarters also has a range of sweet and savoury foods to dine in or takeaway - we offer specialty salads (try our sushi bowl!) and delicious vegan raw slices from local supplier “A Seasoned Kitchen” - from amongst a range of culinary treats on offer. As cooler times approach we will be offering luscious soups and curries.

We are always looking at new treats and products so keep an eye on the Gecko / Headquarters Facebook page and on Instagram. Open 9am to 4pm, Thursday through to Monday, i.e. closed Tuesday & Wednesday

Headquarters café at Gecko Studio Gallery

● Gecko on Facebook - Keep up to date with our news and events on the Gecko Studio Gallery Facebook page.

● Framing quotes/ consultations – a reminder that it is wise where possible to make a time with Kerry for framing consultations and quotes. Kerry can be contacted on 0423 721 593 or at the Gallery (5683 2481). Kerry is not always at the gallery or we may have an event underway so it helps if you can book a time with Kerry. Especially now that we have the café.

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ArtHouse accommodation

Brought to you by Gecko Studio Gallery - the ArtHouse, fine accommodation in Fish Creek.

Entering through the gate, guests are greeted by the lovely private garden filled with interesting plants and flowers and by the ancient apple tree in pride of place in the back yard.

The ArtHouse offers guests a stunning and beautifully appointed cottage hidden away behind Gecko Studio Gallery in the heart of Fish Creek.

The walls host an array of contemporary original artwork by renowned local artists for sale - your very own private gallery.

With an open central living area, full kitchen, a generous sized bedroom and beautifully appointed bathroom, the ArtHouse is light filled, comfortable and cosy.

Quality linen and bath towels are provided, just bring your beach towels. We also supply a portable cot with mattress protector, sheet and extra blankets. A library of artbooks and novels, an interesting dvd and cd collection and current art and style magazines have been collected for your enjoyment.

Fish Creek is home to 4 galleries, and a suite of lovely cafes' including Gecko's very own coffee bar - HeadQuarters, Gibsons - serving delicious breakfasts, lunches, then tapas in the evening! There is a range of interesting shops and the iconic Fish Creek Hotel with the fish on top.

The ArtHouse is perfect as a base from which to visit local wineries, walk or ride on the Great Southern Rail Trail and of course visit Wilsons Prom and the many beaches in the local area.

Please note there is a 2 night minimum stay, with 3 night minimum stay on Public Holidays. Single night stays are at the owner's discretion and may incur extra charges.

Contact Kerry at Gecko Studio Gallery on 03 5683 2481 or 0423 721 593. www.facebook.com/pages/Arthouse/482648991846293 www.stayz.com.au/accommodation/vic/phillip-island-gippsland/wilsons-promontory/146244 www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/2166372

See all the images at www.arthousefishcreek.com.au/ or the 3 links above.

Kerry Spokes

● See Kerry’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/kerryspokesartist and website www.kerryspokes.com.au/

● See www.geckostudiogallery.com.au/kerry-spokes-2/#.VkBxHeTovIU

Check this out:

● Rock star!! http://tiny.cc/yjtlsy (thanks to Bob Hickman for this one)

● Ancient style of bookbinding revived goo.gl/QjxPfH

● Dysfunctional v. Healthy Artist Organizations by Alyson Stanfield [Art Biz Blog]

I’ve been encouraging artists to join artist organizations for my entire career, but the truth is that not all organizations are created equal.

And before you go thinking that you should start your own, let me say this: the world does not need more artist organizations. The world needs better artist organizations – organizations with powerful visions and commitment to serving their artists.

To be clear, I’m not talking about organizations for hobbyists. Those serve a separate and noble purpose, which is fodder for another article. 5

When you are trying to earn money from your art … when you aim for professional status … you need a higher level of support... Read on at https://www.artbizblog.com/artist-organizations/

Prom Coast Arts Council Inc

● Next general meeting will be – Wednesday April 18 at 7pm in Headquarters Café at Gecko Studio Gallery, 15 Falls Rd, Fish Creek. All welcome.

● PCA AGM is Wednesday August 8th at Anda and Yianni’s home. Meal at 6pm, meeting at 7pm. Ph 5687 1206 to RSVP especially for catering purposes and if you need directions.

● PCA mailing list – email Michael at [email protected] or text on 0421 209 878 to be put on the list or for more info

Local Art Venues and Events

The Alison Lester Shop Prints, Books, Cards & Gifts – 1 Falls Road, Fish Creek, Victoria 5683 2352. Keep an eye on the Facebook page for when Alison will be in-store for book signings and other special events. www.facebook.com/pages/Alison-Lester/219864641549443 http://alisonlester.com/ (Psst…all the prints and canvases in the Alison Lester Shop are framed by Gecko Studio Gallery)

Stefani Hilltop Gallery Artist-in-residence Bianca Biesuz-Stefani. 39 Keane’s Rd, Fish Creek. Ph 5683 2253. http://members.dcsi.net.au/hilltop_gallery/ Open Thursday to Monday or by appointment.

Ride the Wild Goat Workshop & Gallery 5 Falls Rd, Fish Creek. Ph 5683 2661. Paintings and one-off handmade furniture & objects by Andrew McPherson. Open Fri, Sat, Sun, Mon – 10.30 – 4.30pm. 0417 370 596 http://ridethewildgoat.com.au/ Check out Andy’s out there Christmas tree

The Celia Rosser Gallery and Banksia Café Promontory Rd, Fish Creek. Open hours: Fri, Sat, Sun 10am – 4pm or by appointment. Ph 5683 2628. [email protected] www.celiarossergallery.com.au/index.htm

People Places Things Gallery 11 Falls Rd, Fish Creek (between Flying Cow Café and the Fish Creek Memorial Hall). Photography, large format printing, studio, portraiture, pets, process and printing of your photos – anything but weddings. Also, wanted to buy – old cameras, photos, film negs, glass slides, negatives – anything photographic. Hobby, not part of the business. Contact Michael Pitts 0418 508 392 [email protected]

The Hub - Fish Creek 10am to 3pm ● The HandMakers Store – a craft collective. Features the work of local makers. Follow them on FB and Instagram. [email protected] Facebook: thehandmakersstore ● Houndog – beautiful handcrafted timber furniture and objects by Peter Bassett. 27 Falls Rd, Fish Creek (between the Fish Creek General Store and the Post Office)

Roland Harvey NEW - Renowned children’s book author and illustrator Roland Harvey has opened a studio/gallery in Fish Creek. There are books and cards for sale along with original artwork, with limited edition prints to come. Facebook: Roland Harvey Art Web: http://rolandharvey.com.au/ 31 Falls Rd, Fish Creek

The Fish Creek Hotel Artspaces – ArtSpace 1: "Natures Inspirations" by artist Wendy Russell (Twyerould) ArtSpace 2: "Fabric and Thread" by artist Dinah Barton . Exhibition space in the art hub of Fish Creek. Fish Creek Hotel/Motel 1 Old Waratah Road, Fish Creek 3959. Ph 5683 2404. Terry & Kevin. http://www.fishcreekhotel.com.au/

The Outer Space Meeniyan - 140B Whitelaw St, Meeniyan, VIC 3956 0427 375 020 9am – 4pm. The Outer Space sculpture park features the work of fourteen local artists and artisans in a park-like setting. http://theouterspacemeeniyan.com.au/ Facebook: outerspacemeeniyan Helen Wilkinson and Grant Flather (plus a cast of thousands)

Stockyard Gallery ● Laurie Collins - Steel Stories 29 March to 23 April ● Gallery open 10 am to 4 pm daily Phone: 5682 1125 www.facebook.com/pages/Stockyard- Gallery/205686259540514

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YEPgallery 41A Main Street, Foster. YEPgallery (Yanakie Earth Pigments) showcases work by local artists using charcoal and natural earth pigments, sourced largely from Yanakie, near Wilsons Prom. Anne Roussac-Hoyne Ph 0408 871 370

Meeniyan Art Gallery curator - Catherine Robinson

April Exhibitions

Gippsland Terra Aqua: Chis Kryzanowski Painting: Chris’ art style is representational. He depicts events or scenes from the real world but abstracted to a degree or manipulated in some way so as to produce more intricate images. His subject matter is largely derived from nature in the Victorian landscape. Chris uses both brush and palette knife to create his art, so his paintings are overlaid and textured. He uses a rich palette which gives additional life and depth to his canvas. He works with oils and acrylics on canvas and board. Sculpture: The sculptural figures are representational – they are stylised forms of dancing glyphs, aesthetically pleasing, elongated shapes constructed with steel cores and resinous bodies. The finish to these works is of a metallic bronze coating.

Recent Works: Peter Walker All work in this series of landscapes is derived from my imagination. The work is expressed through considered mistakes, random mark making, gesture and experience with an emphasis on intuitive energy and individual approach. Media: Oil, inks, pastel and pencil.

May Exhibitions

Andrea McCallum

‘Light as Air and Water’: Leanne Aitken - ‘Inspired by the abstract qualities and beauty of the Sea and the Sky, I’ve worked to capture the effects of weightlessness, continuity and a connectedness between the two.’

Pauline Farries - This exhibition gives me an opportunity to show two groups of paintings. The oils exploring colour and the joy of working with the medium and contrasting tones. The plain air paintings in watercolour and gouache from a trip to the UK. ‘Eilean Donan castle’ is a gouache, visiting Scotland near the Isle of Skye on 26th June 2017 – such a fun day.

Workshops – too numerous to list but follow this link for info - http://meeniyanartgallery.com.au/workshops/ ● 84 Whitelaw St, Meeniyan. Wednesday to Monday (closed Tuesday) 10 – 4pm. Saturday & Sunday 11 – 5pm. Ph 5664 0101 Exhibition bookings - [email protected]

Thirsty Work Gallery 45 River Drive, Tarwin Lower. 0408 241 973. Also, Life drawing classes, Tuesdays evenings - Thirsty Work Studio Gallery.

The ArtSpace Mirboo North 81B Ridgway Mirboo Nth (Between Mirboo Nth Hardware & The Grand Ridge Brewery) ArtSpace Hours Wed-Sun 10-4pm www.facebook.com/TheArtSpaceinMirbooNorth/

ArtSpace Wonthaggi The Centennial Centre, 1 Bent Street, Wonthaggi 3995 (opposite Aldi). Tel: (03) 5672 5767. Hours: Thursday - Monday 10-4

Arc Yinnar arc Yinnar is open Tuesday to Friday 12 noon-4pm, Saturday 11am-3pm. Main Street Yinnar. Ph 5163 1310

Toora Village Studio Gallery Toora Village Studio Gallery - open Thursdays to Sunday, 10am to 4pm. 25 Stanley Street, Toora www.facebook.com/Toora-Village-Studio-Gallery-104985282962543/

Saraghi Gallery Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday 10am - 3pm. Saraghi Gallery - behind Cafe Lugano, 71 Thompson Ave, Cowes

Bob Hickman - Painting classes 5x2 hour classes in Koonwarra studio, Tuesday afternoons 1-4pm $35 per session and Wednesday evening 6-8pm, $100 for a five week block. Also, printmaking and

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hebel stone carving weekend workshops throughout the year. Check out www.bobhickman.blogspot.com.au or contact Bob on 0439 303 244 for more information.

Loch Arts Council - www.facebook.com/Loch-Arts-Council- 581762918549744/timeline?ref=page_internal

Korumburra Arts Group The Arts Group meets about once every 2 months and welcomes artists and art supporters to become part of the group. For further information about the exhibition or the Arts Group contact Jane Brocklesby 0427 472 117, Neil Coxon 5655 2107, Tony Parisi 0407 219 639. http://korumburracommunity.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/September-to-November-2015.pdf

The Boobook Art Studio in South Gippsland - committed to providing enriching, high quality art instruction to children & teenagers. Jacqui Dinsbergs. Studio address: 84 Whitelaw St, Meeniyan, Vic 3956 Postal address: PO Box 252, Foster, Vic 3960 http://boobookartstudio.com.au/

Drawing Classes Classes run by Ann Parry. First and third Fridays at Port Franklin schoolhouse. 10.30am – 2.30pm. Tea & coffee provided, take your own lunch. Some art materials provided or take your own. $35 each session, $50 when there is a life model. Contact Ann 0448 390 785 or 5664 6558.

Freestone Press Gillian Kline 0408514560 email http://freestonepressprintmakingstudio.com/ littlemilligan – makers of beautiful things. Deb Milligan and Colin Little. 26 Avon St, Briagolong. Summer Hours are Friday – Sunday 11am – 4pm. If you come at other times and we aren’t open – call us on 0427 842 328 or 0490 172 012. We are just around the corner and are very likely to be able to open up for you. [email protected] www.littlemilligan.com.au/

Gone South Studio – Grant Flather and Helen Wilkinson - www.gonesouthstudio.com/

Switchback Gallery - Building 6S, Northways Road, Churchill VIC 3842. Bryce Ives. Phone: 5122 6261 Mon to Fri: 9am–5pm. Closed on public holidays. Disabled access

Prom Coast Film Society -

Next Screening: Friday 4th May - The Eagle Huntress - 2017 - UK/Mongolia – Doco and Loving Vincent - 2017 - USA - Bio/Animation

Friday 1st June - The Big Sick - 2017 - USA - Comedy/Romance

Friday 6th July - NAIDOC Week - Zach’s Ceremony - 2016 - Aus – Doco and Mountain - 2017 - Aus - Doco

Friday 3rd August - Wind River - 2017 - UK/USA/Canada - Drama/Crime

Friday 7th September - After the Storm - 2016 - Japan - Drama

Friday 5th October - Don’t Tell - 2017 - Aus - Drama

Friday 2nd November - Breath - 2018 - Aus - Drama

Friday 7th December - Submarine - 2010 - USA - Comedy/Drama and Kubo and the Two Strings - 2016 - USA - Animation

Join at www.trybooking.com/OBPR or through the FAMDA website. First Friday of each month - 7:30pm, Fish Creek Memorial Hall Annual Subscription - $60, 3 Months - $25 , Subscription Only, no Single Tickets

Arts/Culture/Tourism/Community newsletters (send us info if you have a newsletter to add) ● South Gippsland Arts Network Update - administered by Sophie Dixon, Community Strengthening Support Officer, South Gippsland Shire Council. Categories are: exhibitions on now / festivals / music & performance / film / coming soon / download information / galleries of South Gippsland. Contact Sophie to have your info included [email protected]

● Bass Coast Shire Council Free Arts News

● Stockyard Gallery –email them at [email protected] and asking for their newsletter

● Regional Arts Victoria, Gippsland - monthly newsletter

● ArtSpace Newsletter – send email to [email protected]

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● Meeniyan Motel Newsletter Meeniyan Motel email newsletter

● Craft Victoria - Craft Almanac e-news go to Craft Victoria website and find the subscribe area at the bottom of the page. Craft Victoria subscription

● Fishy News – The newsletter for Fish Creek. Available from Fish Creek post office and various outlets around town (The Fishy News is being reborn under the editorship of Helen Ritt).

● Venus Bay/Tarwin community newsletter “Matter of Fact”

Lyrebird Arts Council

P P ARNOLD with very special guests - Saturday 19th May, 2018.8pm

All tickets one price - $75 (incl GST &all booking fees) Ike & Tina Turner, Mick Jagger & Andrew Loog Oldham, The Small Faces, The Nice, Jimi Hendrix, Rod Stewart, Barry Gibb, Eric Clapton, Humble Pie, Nick Drake, Dr. John, Graham Nash, Stephen Stills, Steel Pulse, Roger Waters, The KLF, Ocean Colour Scene, Primal Scream, “Absolutely Fabulous”, Oasis, Maddy Prior, Paul Weller and can’t be wrong. PP Arnold is a legend! The Los Angeles teenager, who became London’s First Lady of Soul after hitting town in 1966 with Ike & Tina Turner and coming to the attention of Mick Jagger, is still going strong. And she’s once again at the right place in the right time, as she has been so often in a career that’s lasted over 50 years. Best known for her beautiful and classic mid-to-late ‘60s hits including “The First Cut Is the Deepest”, “(If You Think You’re) Groovy” and “Angel of the Morning”, as well as the power chorus of the Small Faces’ iconic hit “Tin Soldier”, PP is set to undertake her first ever concert tour of Australian and New Zealand. She’ll be backed by a super group of super fans: , Rusty Hopkinson, Andy Kent, Talei Wolfgramm and James Black. PP’s tour down under follows the release last year of “The Turning Tide”, an album of unreleased recordings from the late ‘60s and early ‘70s, produced by both Barry Gibb and Eric Clapton. It cracked the UK Top 30 upon release, recently made the NZ iTunes Top 20, and has been the subject of many accolades and much airplay since its release. Although this will be PP’s be first concert tour of these parts, she has previously performed here as a featured singer with Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters in 2002 and 2008. In recent times she has also recorded with Primal Scream, Oasis, Ocean Colour Scene and Paul Weller. She has a voice that other artists love to work with; her first duet was with Rod Stewart on a single produced by Mick Jagger, way back in ’67. Her timeless work has earned PP an ardent following amongst fans of ‘60s British rock and pop in addition to lovers of classic soul, and some of her early dance numbers are considered Northern Soul classics. Her status as an icon of her era when she starred alongside old friend Marianne Faithful in the final episode of the original series of “Absolutely Fabulous” in 1996 (for which she and Marianne especially recorded a new version of the program’s theme song “This Wheel’s On Fire”). With her memoir soon due for publication and a new album in the can, co-written and produced by the Ocean Colour Scene’s Steve Craddock and including a couple of duets with long-time supporter and fan Paul Weller, 2018 promises to be a big year for PP Arnold. Join PP and her dream Australian band for what will undoubtedly be amongst the most talked about tours of the year.

EILEN JEWELL Saturday 26th May, 2018 All tickets one price $45 ** SOLD OUT** We are very pleased to announce the return of EILEN JEWELL and her stellar band. Playing in support of their blues influenced album of 2017 “Down Hearted Blues”, Eilen and band will be ripping through tunes from that album and all her catalogue in a night of country twang, Americana and reworked blues classics. Those familiar with the sweet, sweet sounds of Eilen and band will know they are in for a fine night of music and good times to warm up the oncoming winter months.

The Turner Brown Band - Saturday 28th July 2018 Tickets all one price: $38 (incl. GST & bkg fees)

Australian guitarist Dom Turner (Backsliders) in tandem with Nikki Brown. Hailing from Toledo, Ohio, Nikki Brown was born into a Church-based slide guitar tradition known as Sacred Steel and learnt from renowned steel guitar master, Del Grace. She has been described by Guitar World as the“Jimi Hendrix of Sacred Steel” and is an electric lap steel guitar phenomenon. Her powerful vocals and performance has developed over a lifetime of gospel singing, resulting in a powerfully rich, raspy soul-gospel vocal style delivered with impeccable flare and flamboyancy. Joining Dom and Nikki are her sister Gloria (rhythm guitar and vocals) and cousin Tomika (drums and vocals) who share the same deep musical heritage and love of infectious gospel-soul funk- blues music. BYO. Allocated table seating. Doors open 7pm. Show starts & 8pm

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The Teskey Brothers - Friday 29th June 2018 ** SOLD OUT **

It’s undeniable. The Teskey Brothers are a soul/blues phenomenon and the world is falling head over heels. Already in 2018 the Melbourne 4-piece have played to packed houses at Melbourne Zoo, SXSW Festival in Texas, Rockwood Music Hall in NYC, Port Fairy Folk Festival and Byron Bay Bluesfest. Their incredible live show just keeps getting stronger, and the lines to see them keep getting longer! The Teskey Brothers’ 2017 album Half Mile Harvest won them accolades, awards and fans far and wide. They now return with a new single and embark on a three month world tour that will pass through Europe, North America, and their biggest Australian shows to date. The new song, I Get Up, will be out in the world soon but you can grab tickets now for the Meeniyan Town Hall show in June with their tasty horn section and very special guest Caiti Baker BYO. Allocated table seating. Doors open 7pm. Show starts & 8pm

● Purchase tickets online via http://lyrebirdartscouncil.com.au/?page_id=7 Book tickets via email Local ticket outlets (cash only): Gecko Studio Gallery, Fish Creek; Duck Hutt, Meeniyan; the Rusty Windmill, Leongatha, Main Street Revelations, Foster; Books & Massage, Inverloch; UpBeet Juice Bar, Wonthaggi.

````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````` The Great Southern Rail Trail www.visitpromcountry.com.au/walking-cycling/the-great-southern-rail- trail www.gsrt.com.au When you ride or walk through Fish Creek, don’t forget to break your journey for a coffee and lunch at Headquarters Café in Gecko Studio Gallery. Plus, all of what Fish Creek has to offer.

Fish Creek UPDATE ● Fishy News – The newsletter for Fish Creek. Making a comeback with a new editor – Helen Ritt. Aiming to publish at the beginning of the month. Email [email protected] or leave at Post Office or Gecko.

● Gibson’s Café – 9 Falls Rd, Fish Creek. Ph 5683 2593 Open 11am to 3pm (closed Monday) for lunch and Thursday to Saturday 6 to 9pm for small food / tapas and a wine bar Michelle Gibson

● CAKE pop up boutique – CAKE clothing, wooden ships, summer knitwear, imported kaftans. Open 10am to 4pm. Ph 0409 162 372. 9 Falls Rd next door to Gibson’s café and wine bar.

● Gurneys Cidery - 343 Fish Creek Foster Road, Foster, 3960. Open Wednesday – Sunday 10am – 5pm. Open Public Holidays. Ph 0423 039 863 [email protected] Our heritage apple orchard allows us to produce unique small batch ciders full of flavour and character. All apples are pressed, fermented, aged and bottled on the farm resulting in distinct products that differs from anything you would have tried previously.

● Fish Creek Community Development Group – membership is only $5. Have your say as to how Fish Creek develops. Meetings are monthly at present. Membership enquiries to Michael Lester 0421 209 878 [email protected]

● Hoddle Mountain Trail Management Group PO Box 90, Fish Creek, VIC. 3959 Secretary: Tony Walker [email protected]

● Café KO Bar and Grill – 2 Old Waratah Rd, Fish Creek. 5683 2207. Open Wed to Sunday. On Sat & Sun, breakfast will on offer from 9am. Other days: open from 12-12.30 for lunch and dinners from 5.30pm onwards. http://kookscatering.com.au/

● Saturday Yoga with Howard (0499 202 409) 8- 9am Calligraphy Yoga; 9- 10am Synergy Yoga. $15 / $10 conc. All at Fish Creek Memorial Hall.

● Tiliqua – Fish Creek - Tiliqua is a self-contained holiday home accommodating up to 8 people and is located on the very edge of the Fish Creek township. The living areas offer spectacular panoramic views across the countryside. Bookings : Promaccom ph: 03 5682 1436 or free call 1800 458 382. For more information visit www.promaccom.com.au/tiliqua/index.htm

● Fish Creek Cottage – holiday accommodation - 39 Old Waratah Rd, Fish Creek. Bookings: www.stayz.com.au/121861

● Fish Creek General Store - 25 Falls Rd, Fish Creek. Ph 5683 2226. Prop. Carolyn Fryer.

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● Prom View Nursery - Ph 5683 2234. Hoddle Rd Fish Creek 3959

● Promontory Gourmet Foods - PO Box 25 Fish Creek 3959. Ph 5683 2313.

● Fish Creek Post Office 29 Falls Road, Fish Creek VIC 3959. Ph 5683 2461. Mon – Fri 9am - 5pm, Saturday 9am - 12pm

● Fish Creek & District CFA Fire & Rescue - www.facebook.com/fishcreekcfa/?ref=py_c

Walkerville South ● Bear Gully Coastal Cottages - waterfront accommodation overlooking Waratah Bay with views to Wilson's Promontory. 35 Maitland Court, Walkerville South. Ph 5663 2364 www.beargullycottages.com.au/ Walkerville North ● Walkerville Caravan Park - 3 Loop Road, Walkerville North, VIC 3956 Ph 5663 2224. www.caravan-parkfinder.com.au/campsites-and-caravan-parks/view/22198-walkerville-caravan- park

Koonwarra ● Storehouse & Thomas James Hodgkinson Burge - Stylist Storehouse brings artisan craftspeople, clothing, artwork and homewares to you. We have two locations, Koonwarra and now St Kilda… Storehouse - 4-6 Koala Drive, Koonwarra. Thomas Burge 0408 353 976 [email protected] www.storehousekoonwarra.com/about/ Storehouse - 100 Barkly Street, St Kilda 10am – 6pm Thomas Burge 0408 353 976 [email protected] www.facebook.com/storehousestkildaandkoonwarra/

Meeniyan ● moo’s at meeniyan 89 Whitelaw St, Meeniyan. Ph 5664 0010, fax 5664 0050 open Thursday to Monday from 8:30am and for dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings (closed Tuesday and Wednesdays) Wine of the Month – Tilson Hill is a family vineyard making award winning South Gippsland wine The vineyard was established in 1997. The site was chosen with great foresight as today certain privileged locations around the township of Leongatha are proving to have the terroir essential for producing high quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. The vines are planted in deep red volcanic soil on a gentle site running east to west. The vines are pruned and the fruit picked by hand with traditional wine making techniques undertaken. The low cropping levels ensure the wine has an intense level of flavour and reflects the body and soul that has gone into producing it.

Artist(s) of the Month

Colleen Munro Photographer – Tidal Beauty Colleen loves to be outdoors where she uses her camera to capture special images that catch her eye. Since moving to South Gippsland in 2014 she has discovered intricate patterns in the sand at Point Smythe, where Anderson Inlet flows to the sea. Colleen says "The walk to Point Smythe is two hours return and sometimes there may be little pattern left by the tide, but mostly it’s rewarding. It's exciting to see what lies ahead as the patterns are only there briefly and never repeated''. The images were photographed using a hand held camera with no special lenses or filters . Apart from colouring little digital editing has been done.

Mae Adams - Fibre Art - Mantra Botanica series Mae is a visual artist and nature conservationist who lives and works at Venus Bay in South Gippsland. This series of woven and stitched panels has been made using natural plant fibres with no colouring or other interventions. Mae says " I enjoy the direct connection to landscape that working with natural fibres brings. The plants include Australian indigenous species grown on my own property, and weed species harvested from roadsides".

● Meeniyan Pantry & Cellar NEW - We have gathered and cooked exquisite foods and wines from across the globe….as well as our own kitchen… for all your dining needs. Make up your own antipasto plates (cheese from France, cured meats from Italy?), choose your delicious main (how does 8 hour smoked brisket sound?), and finish the meal with a delectable dessert! Choose one, or a few, wines from around the world and you have an unforgettable meal for the family or the guests from out of town. Open 7 Days, Mon-Sat 10am-7pm (8pm Fri), Sun 10-5pm. 82 Whitelaw St, Meeniyan 3956 Ph 5602 2124 www.meeniyanpantryandcellar.com.au

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Sandy Point Music Club - A group of interested residents have recently banded together to form a Sandy Point Music Club. Their aim is to enhance the village atmosphere of Sandy Point by organising regular events at the Community Centre. The plan is to encompass different styles of music to cater for different ages and groups with the main focus on having social and fun evenings. This is very important in a community and Sandy Point is pretty well a perfect size to allow this to happen. As a result of running such events the group hopes to make a small profit with the proceeds being donated to worthy causes with some local connection. Profit from the first two events was given to the South Gippsland Hospital. The Music Group would love to hear from people with ideas and “special requests” for future events. For more information please email [email protected] Next event: BYO nibbles and drinks. Bookings: www.trybooking.com

Foster ● Aherns Fruit Market & Fine Foods - 29 Toora Road, Foster Vic 3960. Phone: 5682 2095 http://aherns.com.au/ Open: Monday to Friday 9 – 5.30, Saturday 8.30 – 12.30

● Café Max – Comfort Inn, 3800 South Gippsland Hwy, Foster. Ph 5682 2022 [email protected]

● Main Street Revelations - New & Gently Used Quality Goods - 31 Main Street, Foster. Phone 5682 1381 www.mainstreetrevelations.com.au/

● Winchester Rise holiday accommodation - 5/8 Winchester St, Foster – Helen Wilkinson and Grant Flather (0427 375 020) - www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/15707293

● The Greenhouse Garden Centre & Café. 21 Toora Road, Foster ph 5682 1930 www.facebook.com/pages/The-Greenhouse-Garden-Centre-Cafe/686574468028883?sk=timeline

Yanakie ● Coastal View Cabins - 150 Foley Road, Yanakie, Wilson’s Promontory Ph 5687 1248 Mobile 0433 772 713 www.coastalviewcabins.com.au/ Mark and Craig

● Prom Country Attraction - Promhelis is now operating in Yanakie. Offering helicopter tours over Wilsons Prom and the coastline, Promhelis is a great new attraction. Witness Australia's southernmost point from the air. Rugged granite, elevated terrain and breathtaking coastal views combine to provide a flying experience that will never be forgotten. Open 7 days a week during peak season. Enquires 0459 318 888. Yanakie Airfield 3510 Meeniyan- Promontory Road, Yanakie. Bookings / Enquiries: [email protected]

Local Radio ● Catch “Shaggy Baggy”, a music show that samples new releases as well as favorites that never date in the folk, blues, alt country and world music genres. Presented by Tony Walker at 6pm Thursdays.

● Ramamlama Ding Dong with Denis, Dave & Nang 8pm - 11pm Friday nights. Local FM station 3mFM – 88.1, 89.1 and 89.5 on the dial www.3mfm.com.au/ - Friday 8:00 pm - 11:00 pm. Music based program featuring alternate themes each week based around Soul, Funk, Disco & Rock N’ Roll music. Also check out the 3MFM website as it is now possible to stream 3mFM via the internet

Kerry Spokes and Michael Lester If you no longer wish to Newsletter written/compiled by Michael Lester.

Gecko Studio Gallery receive this newsletter - phone, write or email us Care has been taken in compiling the information on 15 Falls Rd, Fish Creek 3959 events in this newsletter. However, Gecko Studio and we will take your Ph 5683 2481 Gallery does not warrant or represent that the name off our list [email protected] newsletter is free from errors or omissions. Please send www.geckostudiogallery.com.au/ corrections to [email protected]

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