<p>Gecko Studio Gallery Newsletter </p><p>December 2017 - January 2018 </p><p>1 </p><p>Prom Paintings - Gecko Studio Gallery </p><p>Fish Creek artist Linda Gibbs has spent the past 10 years surveying the ever changing patterns and colours of Wilsons Promontory. This exhibition reveals large scale, pared back oil paintings reflecting the essence of The Prom. Linda won the Best Gippsland Prize at the prestigious John Leslie Art Prize at the Gippsland Gallery last year. She is part of the gallery’s collection and as curator Simon Gregg describes - “She paints with the soul of a poet and the eyes of a realist, to produce paintings that are recognisably Gippsland, while feeling distant and ethereal.” Artist statement... “My practice begins with traditional en plein air (field) painting. Immersed in the elements, my palette races to keep pace with wild weather, subtle colour shifts and ever changing atmospheres. The studies capture the spirit of the place and facilitate an intense knowledge of the environment, from miniscule mosses to majestic mountains. I am currently surveying Wilsons Promontory where nature's harmonious palette does most of the work for me. I find unexpected relationships of pinks, violets, olives, greys and golds in a vast panorama of complex abstraction. The field studies inform large scale, pared back oil paintings produced back in the studio.” </p><p>Linda Gibbs </p><p>Mobile 0412 953 436 www.lindagibbs.com.au </p><p>CURRICULUM VITAE </p><p>LINDA GIBBS Mobile: 0412 953 436 www.lindagibbs.com.au </p><p>Education 1990 - 1992 National Art School, Sydney – Painting Major </p><p>Further Studies 2013 - Moriati Colour Theory 2006 - Medieval Tempera Painting, Melbourne University </p><p>Relevant Employment History 1993 - 2017 Painting Tutor - Linden New Art and Gasworks 2006 – 2015 Director, Corporate Art Events 1999 - 2002 Gallery Director - Metropolis Gallery, St Kilda 1996 - 2004 Visual Art Events Producer - St Kilda Festival 1991 - 1993 Painting Tutor - Eastern Suburbs Regional College (Sydney) 1987 - 1990 Photographer’s Assistant - Richard Millott and Associates </p><p>Recent Exhibitions 2016 - John Leslie Art Prize – Gippsland Art Gallery (Winner, Best Gippsland Prize) 2016 – Blake Prize – Finalist, Director’s Cut 2016 - Linda Gibbs Paintings - Brightspace 2015 - Shakespeare Grove Artists Exhibition – St Kilda Town Hall 2015 - Linda Gibbs - Wilsons Promontory Paintings – St Kilda Town Hall 2014 – John Leslie Art Prize – Gippsland Art Gallery (Finalist) 2014 – Melbourne Now - Satellite Open Studio 2013 – Linda Gibbs - Lullaby Landscapes – Gippsland Art Gallery 2013 – Slumber - Brightspace 2012 – From Realism to Nihilism – St Kilda Town Hall 2011 - Illuminate – Brightspace 2011 – Hidden Pleasures – Gippsland Art Gallery 2 </p><p>2011 – South Gippslandscapes – Fish Creek Gallery 2010 – John Leslie Art Prize. Gippsland Art Gallery (Finalist) 2010 – Recent Landscapes, Axia Modern Art 2009 - Linking - St Kilda Town Hall 2009 - St Kilda Botanical Gardens en plein air 2008 - Wonderment - Gasworks Arts Park 2008 - In the Garden - St Kilda Town Hall 2008 - Postcard Show - Linden Centre for Contemporary Art 2007 Neighbourhood Watching - Brightspace 2007 - Animal Show - Artsofar 2007 - Summer Salon - Brightspace 2006 - Bowled Out - Gallery M 2006 - Summer Salon - Brightspace 2006 - Bowling Club Exhibition - Brightspace 2005 - In the Shadows - Gasworks 2002 - Linda Gibbs - Paintings - Metropolis Gallery, St Kilda 1990 - 2002 - Various Group Exhibitions, Sydney and Melbourne </p><p>Linda Gibbs </p><p>****************************************************************** </p><p>Gecko Studio Gallery </p><p>What’s next? Exhibitions in the pipeline…… (NB details may change before these exhibitions open) </p><p>#118 Picturesque - group exhibition. Friday January 19 to Monday February 19 2018. Opening event on Friday January 19 </p><p>#119 Peter Greenaway – Thursday February 22 to Monday March 19, 2018. Opening event on Friday, February 23 at 6pm. </p><p>Gecko Studio Gallery News </p><p>“Headquarters”, our new café, is going from strength to strength. Without compromising the character and charm of Gecko or the range of products and services – contemporary art space, custom framing, art materials, art workshops and artisan wares – the café is a cool and inviting space in the front of the building looking out into the street. Headquarters are serving a unique wood roasted artisan coffee from Melbourne (Ricci Method), delicious teas (including Calmer Sutra), chais, hot chocolates and cold drinks. Headquarters also has a range of sweet and savoury foods to dine in or takeaway – including delicious vegan raw slices from local supplier “A Seasoned Kitchen”. We are already looking at new treats and products so keep an eye on the Gecko / Headquarters Facebook page and on Instagram. </p><p>3 </p><p>Headquarters café at Gecko Studio Gallery </p><p>● We are catching up with friends and generally chilling out at Gibson’s Café and Bar just down the street from Gecko Thursday, Friday or Saturday evenings between 6 and 9pm (well, when we are not too exhausted). Stylish, welcoming and relaxing. Try it sometime soon. </p><p>● Gecko on Facebook - Keep up to date with our news and events on the Gecko Studio Gallery Facebook page. </p><p>● 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. </p><p>ArtHouse accommodation </p><p>Brought to you by Gecko Studio Gallery - the ArtHouse, fine accommodation in Fish Creek. </p><p>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. </p><p>The ArtHouse offers guests a stunning and beautifully appointed cottage hidden away behind Gecko Studio Gallery in the heart of Fish Creek. </p><p>The walls host an array of contemporary original artwork by renowned local artists for sale - your very own private gallery. </p><p>With an open central living area, full kitchen, a generous sized bedroom and beautifully appointed bathroom, the ArtHouse is light filled, comfortable and cosy. 4 </p><p>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. </p><p>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. </p><p>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. </p><p>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. </p><p>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 </p><p>See all the images at www.arthousefishcreek.com.au/ or the 3 links above. </p><p>Kerry Spokes </p><p>● Kerry has an exhibition of works on paper titled ‘Known Unknowns’ at Tacit Contemporary Art, 312 Johnston St, Abbotsford. Call Kerry for more info on 0423 721 593 </p><p>● See Kerry’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/kerryspokesartist and website www.kerryspokes.com.au/ </p><p>● See www.geckostudiogallery.com.au/kerry-spokes-2/#.VkBxHeTovIU </p><p>Check this out ▪ Blog by Lara Boyle, an MD/PhD student at Columbia who has an interest in the connection between the experience of art and neuroscience – titled The World We See – Part One: A Brief History https://medicalhealthhumanities.com/2017/11/04/wws-p1-a-brief-history/ Follow links in blog for further posts. </p><p>5 </p><p>▪ Decode the colour system of 19th-century nature artist Ferdinand Bauer, who documented the Australian coast, through an online interactive (CTRL+click to open) </p><p>▪ You’ve read Shakespeare’s plays. You’ve seen them performed. Maybe you’ve even flipped through the Folger digital copy of his famous First Folio. Why not learn more about how William and Isaac Jaggard printed the earliest collected edition of Shakespeare's plays and make your own digital copy? Here we introduce you to the working knowledge of early modern printers through interactive exercises and downloadable content. In our virtual printing house, you can make your own First Folio! https://www.folger.edu/publishing-shakespeare/first-folio/diy-first-folio </p><p>Prom Coast Arts Council Inc </p><p>Next general meeting will be – February - date and venue not determined yet. Ph Michael 0421 209 878 for more info </p><p>Local Art Venues and Events </p><p>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 at the Alison Lester Shop are framed by Gecko Studio Gallery) </p><p>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. </p><p>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 </p><p>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 </p><p>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] </p><p>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] NEW ● Houndog – beautiful handcrafted timber furniture and objects by Peter Bassett. NEW 27 Falls Rd, Fish Creek (between the Fish Creek General Store and the Post Office) </p><p>The Fish Creek Hotel Artspaces – an 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/ </p><p>Basia Mille - luxury apartments, vineyard and olive grove. Geraldine and Tony Conabere. 1 Taylor Court, Fish Creek (Waratah North) 0414 295 048 / 5687 1453. http://basiamille.com.au/ </p><p>Stockyard Gallery ● (Almost) Captured - Ken Irwin 7 - 31 December. Opening Sat Dec 6 between 2 -4pm. Former 25 year Melbourne Age newspaper veteran turns his whimsical lens on the beaches of Waratah Bay and their users. ● Drawn to South Gippsland – Thur 4th to Mon 29th Jan, 2018. Opening Sat Jan 6 between 2 – 4pm. ● Gallery open 10 am to 4 pm daily Phone: 5682 1125 www.facebook.com/pages/Stockyard- Gallery/205686259540514 </p><p>YEPGallery Foster 41A, Main Street, Foster. YEPpainters (stands for Yanakie Earth Pigments) Gallery is a new Gallery which 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 </p><p>6 </p><p>Meeniyan Art Gallery curator - Catherine Robinson Festive Exhibition – opening 26 Nov at 2.00pm. Exhibition 24 Nov 2017 – 5 Jan 2018. Warren Nichols, Val Christie, Susan Williams, Sue Hoare, Sue Gilford, Sian Adnam, Sharyn Madder, Sandra Peeters, Sam Haycroft, Peter Walker, Pauline Farries, Patricia Hill, Olive MacLeod, Madeline Kelsey, Karen Ryan, Judi Deitz, Jenny Mountford, Helen Masin, Deb Watson, Chris Larsen, Bob Hickman & Allison Svoboda. 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] </p><p>Sculpture at Lucinda December 1 to Januray 28 2018. Sample superb wines whilst viewing the amazing sculptures of Gippslnads leading artists. Open Fri, Sat & Sun through December 11.30am to 5pm. Open daily through January, weekdays 1 – 5pm, weekends 11.30am – 5pm. Pizza available. 108 Parr St, Leongatha. Ph 0417 337 270. www.lucindaestate.com free entry </p><p>Thirsty Work Gallery 45 River Drive, Tarwin Lower. 0408 241 973. Also, Life drawing classes, Tuesdays evenings - Thirsty Work Studio Gallery. </p><p>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/ </p><p>ArtSpace Wonthaggi The Centennial Centre, 1 Bent Street, Wonthaggi 3995 (opposite Aldi). Tel: (03) 5672 5767. Hours: Thursday - Monday 10-4 </p><p>Arc Yinnar arc Yinnar is open Tuesday to Friday 12 noon-4pm, Saturday 11am-3pm. Main Street Yinnar. Ph 5163 1310 </p><p>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/ </p><p>Saraghi Gallery Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday 10am - 3pm. Saraghi Gallery - behind Cafe Lugano, 71 Thompson Ave, Cowes </p><p>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 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. </p><p>Loch Arts Council - www.facebook.com/Loch-Arts-Council- 581762918549744/timeline?ref=page_internal </p><p>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 </p><p>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/ </p><p>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. </p><p>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/ </p><p>7 </p><p>● 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. Nov 2017 to Jan 2018 </p><p>Gone South Studio – Grant Flather and Helen Wilkinson - www.gonesouthstudio.com/ </p><p>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 </p><p>Prom Coast Film Society - </p><p>Join at www.trybooking.com/OBPR or through the FAMDA website. </p><p>South Gippsland Shire Council - Arts, Culture and Creative Arts Strategy – </p><p>South Gippsland Shire Council is very pleased to advise the South Gippsland arts and creative sector that we have appointed Mary Sullivan to the newly created position of Arts Development Officer, established to lead the implementation of Council’s 2017-21 Arts, Culture and Creative Industry Strategy. </p><p>Mary is currently co-Creative Director of The Edge of Us, a two-year Regional Arts Victoria funded community arts project that engenders community participation pride, belonging, and cohesion across five Westernport towns. Previous to this, Mary designed and facilitated TraX, a Bass Coast Shire community art project with the local youth to reinvigorate the Inverloch Skate Park. </p><p>Mary has worked in the arts for over 25 years, across a range of disciplines: as an applied artist, landscape architect, streetscape project manager for a local government, and design educator. </p><p>Mary has held positions in the community arts, commercial arts, and municipal, and academic arts sectors, both locally and overseas. </p><p>Mary will commence her role with Council on 20 November. Mary will be a member of Council’s Community Strengthening team and will be working with the team who oversaw the development of the 4 year Strategy - Sophie Dixon and Ned Dennis. </p><p>South Gippsland Arts Network Meeting - 23 November, Mirboo North This is a dinner meeting - dinner starts at 6pm! RSVP to Sophie Dixon by 20 November - email or phone 5662 9202 Download a copy of the Agenda for the SG Arts Network here </p><p>The 2017-21 Arts, Culture and Creative Industry Strategy can be viewed by following this link - www.vision6.com.au/ch/42679/17rvs/2355993/3fea1yt7n.pdf </p><p>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] </p><p>● Bass Coast Shire Council Free Arts News </p><p>● Stockyard Gallery – not sure how to subscribe but I guess emailing them at [email protected] and asking for their newsletter should do the trick </p><p>● Regional Arts Victoria, Gippsland - monthly newsletter </p><p>● ArtSpace Newsletter – send email to [email protected] </p><p>● Meeniyan Motel Newsletter Meeniyan Motel email newsletter </p><p>● 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 </p><p>8 </p><p>● Fishy News – The newsletter for Fish Creek. Available from Fish Creek post office and various outlets around town (gone into a recess until after the New Year when Dominic will be the new editor). </p><p>● Venus Bay/Tarwin community newsletter “Matter of Fact” </p><p>Lyrebird Arts Council </p><p>● MOSSVALE PARK: SUMMER NIGHTS - <a href="/tags/The_Waifs/" rel="tag">THE WAIFS</a>. Rescheduled for Sunday February 4th 2018. See website for further info. SUPPORT: YIRRMAL 2017 marks 25 years since West Australian sisters Donna and Vikki Simpson (now Vikki Thorn) joined forces with <a href="/tags/Josh_Cunningham/" rel="tag">Josh Cunningham</a> to create one of the country’s best-loved bands: The Waifs! To celebrate and commemorate, the band will be coming to South Gippsland this December. Since releasing their debut, self-titled album in 1996 The Waifs have established a strong and loyal fan- base worldwide, built on the relentless touring they did in Australia in those formative years, playing in any town that would have them, honing their stagecraft and their songwriting skills along the way. In a catalogue of many great songs, from early favourites such as London Still and Lighthouse to Black Dirt Track and Dark Highway to their 2017 album, Ironbark, there exists an embarrassment of riches. “The Waifs fans are legendary in the industry for their loyalty and enthusiasm. It feels like we all grew up together. We are now the band you can bring your parents and your kids to hear! Your involvement in our career means everything to us. You are the very reason we are still playing music together 25 years on.” Vikki Thorn New gen Indigenous Australian artist Yirrmal Marika, from North-East Arnhem Land, has made a refreshing entrance into the music scene. Inspired by his Grandfather, Dr M Yunupingu, former lead singer of Yothu Yindi, he fuses tradition and contemporary with class and passion. Yirrmal is an inspiring songwriter and guitarist with a beautiful voice, singing songs about his homeland and culture with feeling and depth beyond his years. He openly shares his identity, spirit and connection to the land and engages the hearts of those that are lucky enough to hear him. Yirrmal is related to the late Dr G Yunupingu on his mother’s side, and his father, Witiyana Marika, was a singer and dancer in Yothu Yindi. He has extensive knowledge of traditional Yolngu “Manikay” songs, and he is also an excellent dancer and didgeridoo “yidaki” player. His powerful live performances are something every Australian should experience. </p><p>Gates will open at 6 pm and the music will kick off at 8pm. A small number of food and wine vendors will be on site but you are more than welcome to BYO food and drink. Make it a family picnic, work break-up or pre-Xmas get together with friends. Bring your own picnic, rug, chair, and smile. You are also encouraged to take your rubbish home with you and recycle. Car parking is available just outside the park, with a small charge and money taken will benefit The Berry’s Creek CFA. Pre-Purchased Ticket prices: $55 Adult; $50 Concession; Under 17 $20; (plus bkg fees); Under 12 free. At the gate on the day: all Adults $60; Youth $30 Tickets available: online via Oztix (credit card) https://tickets.oztix.com.au/?Event=79942, The Lyrebird web page (bank transfer) http://lyrebirdartscouncil.com.au </p><p>● BASSEKOU KOUYATE Saturday 20th January 2018. 8pm $55 / $60 “The greatest rock and roll band in the world” - The Independent (UK) "..a genius, a living proof that the blues comes from the region of Segu." - TAJ MAHAL Bassekou Kouyate is one of the true masters of the ngoni, an ancient traditional lute found throughout West Africa. It is the key instrument for the griot culture. Unlike the kora whose history goes back only a few hundred years, the ngoni has been the main instrument in griot storytelling going back to the 13th century during the days of Soundiata Keita, the founder of the Mali Empire. The repertoire Bassekou plays is Bambara music from the region of Segu. Bambara music is pentatonic in nature and as close to the blues as you can get in Africa. Over the years Bassekou has collaborated with many musicians from his homeland Mali and internationally. Bassekou was one of the key musicians on Ali Farka Toure's posthumous album release 'Savane' having also previously toured with Ali Farka Toure, stunning audiences worldwide as the band's solo ngoni player. He has played in the Symmetric trio alongside Toumani Diabate (kora) and Keletigui Diabate (balafon), was also a part of Taj Mahal's and Toumani Diabate's 'Kulanjan' project and features prominently on Youssou N'Dour's latest album 'Rokku mi Rokka' and Dee Dee Bridgwater's 'Red Earth' Bassekou was born in a village called Garana, almost 40 miles from Segu, in the remote countryside on the banks of the Niger River. He was raised in a traditional musical environment, his mother a praise singer and his father and brothers exceptional ngoni players. Bassekou moved to Bamako when he was 19 years old where he met the young Toumani Diabate. By the late 1980s, Bassekou was part of 9 </p><p>Toumani's trio and they recorded their first albums together, 'Songhai' and 'Djelika'. In 1996 Bassekou married the singer Amy Sacko (the so-called "Tina Turner of Mali") and they have been in high demand for the traditional wedding parties that happen in the streets of Bamako. After many years being a 'sideman' to many musicians both in Mali and globally, Bassekou has now put together his own band, Ngoni ba (meaning "the big ngoni"), Mali's first ngoni quartet. </p><p>NEIL & LIAM FINN - Tuesday 20th February and second show second show on Wednesday 21st February 2018. Members $82 / Adults 85. SOLD OUT Recognised as one of the world’s greatest living songwriters, the legendary Neil Finn of Crowded House and Split Enz fame together with his son Liam Finn will be celebrating the release of their new album due out in February. The forthcoming work is a full musical collaboration between father and son, co- produced by Neil and Liam themselves. Sublime, divine, wondrous and ever pushing the boundaries of creative innovation, these two are craftsmen to behold. Neil explains on the album "Liam and I have been dreaming up this record for the last two years. We have a wonderful band assembled to bring it to the stage and are casting the net wide to bring up some old treasures for the set list.” They will perform new material, solo back catalogue and loved Split Enz and Crowded House songs, backed by an all-star band for a special night at Meeniyan Hall. BYO. Allocated table seating. Doors open 7pm. Show starts & 8pm </p><p>● 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. </p><p>````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````` </p><p>Fish Creek ● Fishy News – The newsletter for Fish Creek. Available from Fish Creek post office and various outlets around town. Submission deadline – 20th of the month. </p><p>● 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 </p><p>● NEW 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. Nov 2017 to Jan 2018 </p><p>● 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] </p><p>● 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/ </p><p>● Saturday Yoga with Howard (0499 202 409) 8- 9am Calligraphy Yoga; 9- 10am Synergy Yoga. $15 / $10 conc. All at Fish Creek Memorial Hall. </p><p>● 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 </p><p>● Fish Creek Cottage – holiday accommodation - 39 Old Waratah Rd, Fish Creek. Bookings: www.stayz.com.au/121861 </p><p>● Fish Creek General Store - 25 Falls Rd, Fish Creek. Ph 5683 2226. Prop. Carolyn Fryer. </p><p>● Prom View Nursery - Ph 5683 2234. Hoddle Rd Fish Creek 3959 </p><p>● Promontory Gourmet Foods - PO Box 25 Fish Creek 3959. Ph 5683 2313. </p><p>● Fish Creek Post Office 29 Falls Road, Fish Creek VIC 3959. Ph 5683 2461. Mon – Fri 9am - 5pm, Saturday 9am - 12pm </p><p>● Fish Creek & District CFA Fire & Rescue - www.facebook.com/fishcreekcfa/?ref=py_c </p><p>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/ 10 </p><p>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 </p><p>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/ </p><p>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 – Located in the South Gippsland / Bass Coast region, HARMAN WINES is located near Inverloch, Wonthaggi and Kongwak. Harman Wines is fast gaining a reputation for producing superb cool climate wines for all occasions. Pinot Gris & Merlot </p><p>Artist(s) of the Month - Friends of Art - This vibrant group of eight artists (3 of below) meet weekly at the old Leongatha South Primary School. They work in a variety of mediums, including watercolour, oils, acrylic, charcoal and gouache. There is a wide variety of work from Realism, Contemporary and Expressionist. </p><p>Sandy Point </p><p>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 </p><p>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 </p><p>● Café Max – Comfort Inn, 3800 South Gippsland Hwy, Foster. Ph 5682 2022 [email protected] </p><p>● Main Street Revelations - New & Gently Used Quality Goods - 31 Main Street, Foster. Phone 5682 1381 www.mainstreetrevelations.com.au/ </p><p>● Winchester Rise holiday accommodation - 5/8 Winchester St, Foster – Helen Wilkinson and Grant Flather (0427 375 020) - www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/15707293 </p><p>● The Greenhouse Garden Centre & Café. 21 Toora Road, Foster ph 5682 1930 www.facebook.com/pages/The-Greenhouse-Garden-Centre-Cafe/686574468028883?sk=timeline </p><p>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 </p><p>● 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] </p><p>11 </p><p>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. </p><p>● Ramamlama Ding Dong with Denis, Dave & Nang 8pm - 11pm Friday nights (new program time). 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 </p><p>Kerry Spokes and Michael Lester If you no longer wish to Newsletter written/compiled by Michael Lester. </p><p>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 www.geckostudiogallery.com.au/ send corrections to [email protected] </p><p>12 </p>