Inspirational women to speak at breakfast

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Kristen Hilton, Victoria’s Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commissioner, and Sally Hines, the chief operating officer of The Big Issue and Homes for Homes, will be guest speakers at the International Women's Day breakfast on Wednesday, March 7, at the Mornington Racecourse.

The breakfast, now in its fourth year, is jointly arranged by the Rotary Clubs of Frankston North, Frankston, Mt Eliza and Peninsula 2.0, and all profits from the event will this year be donated to charity.

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International Women's Day is about celebration, reflection, advocacy, and action.  It has been established for more than a century and momentum continues to grow through the inspiration of incredible women who are raising kids, building businesses and transforming communities. 

More than 400 guests attended the 2017 International Women's Day breakfast and organisers expect an even bigger crowd this year. It’s on from 6.45-9am and tickets are $50 a single or $500 for a table of 10. Go to eventbrite.com.au/e/international-womens-day-breakfast-event-2018-tickets-38694946627

 

Vibrant Ventana celebrates women in the arts

Frankston City’s annual month-long celebration of Latin, Portuguese and Spanish culture, Ventana Fiesta, is back next month, bigger, better and more vibrant than ever.

This year Ventana will focus on celebrating women in the arts with female artists and work about women central to the festival’s program. Frankston City Mayor Colin Hampton said this year’s theme was not only important, but timely. “There is increasing global acknowledgement that women can face discrimination in society,” Cr Hampton said. “I’m proud that this year’s celebrations will continue to raise awareness of the incredible strength, power and talent of women and bring the conversation into the arts realm.”

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Events this year include an opening night celebration that will feature static and performance-based art installations exploring the significance of the White Dress as a rite of passage from girlhood to womanhood. SBS presenter Luciana Fraguas will launch the film festival with a tribute to Chiquinha Gonzaga, Brazil’s first female conductor who was prominent in helping develop international copyright for music. Art lovers can enjoy a myriad of exhibitions dedicated to women in the arts, featuring work from renowned Frankston and international artists, and Frankston Primary School students will create their own artwork based around the theme of the White Dress. Frankston artist Tania Ferrier has collaborated with homeless person Mykal to create a moveable home. This has been inspired by the work of Argentine artist Cristina Caronni, who works with homeless people in Buenos Aires.

The much-loved Street Fiesta returns to Wells St offering delicious barbecues, street food, street art, music, dance, craft stalls and vocal performances. Be sure to visit the Central America, Spain, Brazil, Andes and Chile quarters. There are workshops offering you the opportunity to learn traditional Spanish, Portuguese and Latin American dances, explore your acting and art skills, create quirky costumes and take part in the Ventana Carnival Parade at the Street Fiesta on Saturday, March 10.

Visit VentanaFrankston.com.au for more information.

 

Musical matinee or something more dramatic?

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The Pirates of Penzance is a modern take on the most popular and critically acclaimed of the Gilbert & Sullivan musicals with the pirates clashing swords and trading barbs. I Am The Pirate KingPoliceman’s Lot is Not a Happy OneCat Like Tread and Poor Wandering One are just a few of the hit songs performed in this production. This family musical comedy will be performed on Friday, March 9, at 10.30am and 1.30pm. Tickets are $20 and can be booked online at theFAC.com.au, in person at the centre or by calling 9784 1060.

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Henry Lawson is one of the nation’s favourite writers and poets. His contemporary, Mary Gilmore, was a literary icon and radical socialist. Both were heroes of literature and had enormous influence over each other. Both were later the face of Australia’s currency. Both were secretly betrothed to each other. All My Love is the first time that Henry and Mary’s forbidden relationship has been brought to the stage and will be performed at Frankston Arts Centre on Monday, March 19, at noon. Tickets are $25 - $30.

FRANKSTON ARTS CENTRE

A: 27-37 Davey St, Frankston

T: 9784 1060

W: thefac.com.au

It’s time for another storey

The team behind The 13-26- and 52-Storey Treehouse books return with the newest, biggest, brightest blockbuster in the series. Andy and Terry’s treehouse just keeps on growing. With yet another 13 levels, it’s now got a Scribbletorium, a high-security potato chip storage facility (guarded by one very angry duck) and even an open-air movie theatre.

Speaking of movies, the legendary Mr Big Shot has arrived to make a Hollywood blockbuster. But when his first step is to fire Andy and replace him with a monkey – well, a gibbon named Mel Gibbon – the battle is on. Will the Treehouse Blockbuster ever get made? Who will win the battle of Andy and Terry? And why are those mysterious spy cows turning up everywhere? There’s only one way to find out …

See the show for yourself at Frankston Arts Centre on Saturday, March 17, at 11am, 3pm or 6pm. Tickets are $25 each or $95 for a family of four and can be booked online at theFAC.com.au, in person at the centre or by calling 9784 1060. This show is suitable for six to 12-year-olds.

FRANKSTON ARTS CENTRE

A: 27-37 Davey St, Frankston

T: 9784 1060

W: thefac.com.au

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The Waterfront Festival serves up a feast of free family fun

Frankston’s most anticipated free summer festival is back bigger and better than ever as it celebrates 19 years of beachside fun for the whole family.  The Waterfront Festival will move to February 10-11 to welcome the Queen’s Baton Relay on its journey through our beautiful bayside city in the lead-up to the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.

The Waterfront Festival is a much-loved community event that attracts residents and visitors to the sun-soaked beach at the Frankston Waterfront for two spectacular days of live music, beach and water sports, market stalls, delicious food, wine, cider and craft beer.

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As well as the Queen’s Baton Relay on Sunday, February 11, other festival highlights throughout the weekend will include  Sammy J, The Bamboos, Pierce Brothers, Jakubi and more; the beer, wine and cider garden; beach and water sports; Food Truck Square festival dining; children’s entertainment; and a spectacular fireworks display.

The Waterfront Festival is located on the Frankston Waterfront on Saturday, February 10, from 11am-10pm; and Sunday, February 11, from 11am-8pm.  Entry is free but costs apply for rides, food and amusements.

And with the Blessing of the Waters on January 6, the Australian Beach Games from January 26-28 and Sand Sculpting Australia’s exhibition on every day through until April 25, the Frankston Waterfront really is the centre of your summer fun.

FRANKSTON EVENTS

W:  visitfrankston.com

INSTA:  @frankstonevents

FB:  @frankstonevents

 

Safety and fun at the heart of fencing club

Fencing is a sport of strength and strategy that is both elegant and stylish.  Mount Martha’s Touché Fencing Club provides training and competition for anyone interested in learning this traditional yet progressive sport in an encouraging and safe environment.

Predominantly focusing on the epee (duelling sword), which can be mastered by any keen sportsman or woman from the age of 10 upwards, this family friendly club has two coaches on Thursday evenings who provide constant feedback. Veteran fencer Danny Robson is the winner of the Australian Men’s Veteran national title and Murray Thompson has a physiotherapy background, which means both men bring different skills to the club’s program.

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“Fencing develops a strong sense of ethics, respect and self-worth,” says club member Paul Baker. “Competing is fun, and it is great as a parent to watch your child develop into an agile and strong person who is respectful yet determined. You can compete on a national level or just develop skills. Either way, you become more focused and fit.”

Touché Fencing Club provides all the gear you’ll need to get started, including uniforms, masks and blades, and you’re welcome to come along and try first to see whether this sport is for you. There’s an introduction to fencing on the first Thursday of every month and lessons are only $10 thereafter. You can fence on a casual or social basis or book in for the whole term.

“Safety and fun are Touché Fencing Club’s top priority,” Paul says. “We are a social club that holds fundraisers and sausage sizzles, and most parents stay to watch their children’s classes. Everyone is welcome.”

En garde!

TOUCHÉ FENCING CLUB

A: Osborne Primary School gym room, 120 Craigie Rd, Mount Martha

T: 0405 237 658 (Rhydian)

E: [email protected]

W: touchefencingclub.org.au

Swing by the Sward

It might once have been Bangholme’s best-kept secret, but the word is quickly getting out -

Eastern Sward Golf Club is a little beauty!

An increasing number of golfers are being drawn to this attractive 5000m course, and president Bob Martello says new members as well as community, sporting and retirement groups are always welcome. “We have a lot more ladies playing than ever before,” Bob says. “A lot of juniors have started to join too, which is great.

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“One of our highlights was having the Sydney Swans play a game. It was a great plus that was full of excitement and good publicity.”

For a relaxing start to your weekend, grab some mates and head along on a Friday night for a round and a beer for just $15.  You’ll be more than welcome at the Sward.

EASTERN SWARD GOLF CLUB

A: cnr Thompson and Worsley roads, Bangholme

T: 9775 0363

W: easternswardgc.com.au

Get set for the Frankston Gift

The Frankston Gift returns on January 14 after a six-year absence with CORE 24 resuming its position as a major sponsor, and organisers hope it will become one of the city’s premier sporting events.

The CORE 24 – 2018 Frankston Gift will be run at Frankston Oval, cnr Young St and Plowman Place, with athletes of all ages and abilities invited to compete in a competitive but fun environment.  It will be a similar format to the 130-year-old Stawell Gift, with each athlete allocated a mark or handicap based on their ability, giving them an equal opportunity in their chosen event.

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Photo by Jamesons Photography

Gift races are traditionally held on a grass surface, and records show that a Gift was run in Frankston as early as the 1920s and was last held in Frankston in 2012 under the name The Peninsula Gift.  The Frankston Athletic Club is resuming the Gift under the new name and hopes the race will generate its own character and attract national and international level elite athletes.  “These athletes, along with Frankston’s dynamic business community and rich sporting culture, will undoubtedly create one of the city’s leading sporting events,” the club said.   It expects the Gift will attract more than 1000 runners and spectators, many of whom will eat, stay and shop in the area. 

The CORE 24 – 2018 Frankston Gift team’s mission is to create stronger ties within the community by bringing individuals, businesses and sporting bodies together for a premier community and sporting event.  The team also hopes the Gift will support businesses and sponsors, boost Frankston’s reputation as a healthy sporting community, provide a fun and innovative environment for all ages, and provide equal prize money for men and women to promote equality in sport.

CORE 24 also supports many other community and sporting clubs, including Frankston Football Club, Frankston Tennis Club and Frankston Heat Cricket Club.

CORE 24 – 2018 FRANKSTON GIFT
W: frankstongift.com.au
FB: frankstongift
INSTA: @frankstongift

 

Wonder Showing at Hoyts, Wells St, Frankston

Adapted from R.J. Palacio’s 2012 novel, Wonder tells the story of Auggie Pullman (Jacob Tremblay), a brainy 10-year-old boy born with Treacher Collins syndrome, a genetic disorder that affects growth and development of the head, resulting in facial abnormalities. After years of home schooling him and knowing he can’t be shielded from the world for ever, his mother Isabel (Julia Roberts) comes to a decision with his father Nate (Owen Wilson) that Auggie will begin fifth grade at a regular school.

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Despite principal Mr Tushman (an under-stated Mandy Patinkin) and homeroom teacher Mr Browne (Daveed Diggs) having his back, school was never going to be a walk in the park for a boy who’s had 27 surgeries since he was born.  Auggie hasn’t even made it through the end of his first day before his Star Wars Padawan braid has him dubbed ‘Barf Hideous’ by classmate Julian, who is “one of those kids who acts sweet in front of adults but not so nice in front of other kids”.

Ordinarily, these sorts of films are packed with so much saccharine they can be hard to stomach. However, director Stephen Chbosky (The Perks of Being a Wallflower) manages to trace a year in the life of Auggie and those around him in a way that delivers an on-point message without ramming it down viewers’ throats.

Wonder offers a lesson in kindness for children and serves as a reminder for adults. As we reflect on the year that was 2017, it’s not like the world couldn’t use it.

SCOTT JACKSON 3.5 stars 

 

Lighting up Frankston for Christmas

The Christmas lights have been switched on at 1 Lulworth Place, and between now and Boxing Day they will draw thousands of people to Trevor and Sandra’s house.  The Frankston couple have been decorating their house for the past 17 years, and nine years ago they began collecting donations from visitors to give to Frankston Special Development School – raising an incredible $25,000 so far.  The lights are on every night from 8.30-10pm - later if it’s busy – so bring the kids along and let them share the real spirit of Christmas. Pictures: Tanya Fry

For all our social pictures from the night, visit - https://photos.morningtonpeninsulamagazine.com.au/gallery/Frankston-Christmas-Tree-Lights-2017/G0000xICaDsxnrQE/C00003XBYMfru98I

Dazzle your loved ones with a Stellar Christmas gift

Here’s some fantastic news – the hottest new event on the entertainment calendar is coming to Frankston City!

Created by three friends – Carly, Jasmine and Sarah – the Stellar Short Film Festival is a premium outdoor festival being held on Saturday, March 3, on the lawns of the stunning McClelland Sculpture Park + Gallery in Langwarrin.

Stellar will showcase the best award-winning Australian short films from 2017, with entries by invitation only. Films will compete on the night for prizes, with winners selected by a panel of judges made up of high-profile creatives, as well as an audience choice award.  The charismatic Stellar MC is actor/producer/director/writer Scott Major, and there’s an exciting line-up of judges to be announced in the coming weeks.

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General admission ticket holders can relax with an afternoon of musical entertainment from DJ Nige – complete with his 1970 Kombi van – as well as play lawn games or wander around the park before enjoying the films and their gourmet picnic pack. VIP ticket holders will indulge in a cocktail-style dinner party with drinks before the screenings, plus receive a gourmet show bag, have access to the indoor gallery, a VIP bar, special entertainment, reserved seating, and an invitation to the Stellar after-party.

There’ll be a mini dessert market featuring mouthwatering gourmet-flavoured popcorn, cookies, fudge, cupcakes and more from local producers, as well as a selection of local wines, beers, and coffee available for purchase.

Stellar is proudly supported by major sponsor Illumin8, the Mount Eliza accounting firm with a whole lot of personality. Tickets are on sale now at stellarshortfilmfestival.com.au and make the ultimate ‘Stellar’ Christmas present.

 

Mordialloc carnival riding high By Kate Sears

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Here comes Santa Claus … and he’s in his board shorts with his sights set on the Mordialloc Christmas Summer Carnival.  Back for its fourth year, the carnival is open from 2pm every day from Friday, December 22, until Sunday, January 14, except for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

One of the highlights will be the free New Year’s Eve fireworks display at the child-friendly time of 9.30pm.  This year’s carnival will also include fantastic food from the owners of Mordialloc’s Bang Bang, who will spoil customers with their Asian fusion-style treats. 

There will be plenty of rides for the whole family, and children who want to try every one will have ample opportunity to do so - there are two sessions each day, between 2-5pm and 5-8pm, and kids can use their All You Can Ride wristbands until they’re exhausted.

The Mordialloc Christmas Summer Carnival is at Peter Scullin Reserve, Mordialloc.

SMART AMUSEMENTS

A: 19-21 Urban St, Braeside

T: 9555 6606

The circus is coming to town

Roll up, roll up your sleeves and get your tickets now to avoid missing out! Mornington will host Silvers Circus from Wednesday, January 3, until Sunday, January 28.

Established in 1976, Silvers Circus provides world-class family entertainment and fun and is one of the world’s Top 10 circuses. Silvers presents all the sparkle, glamour and death-defying acts expected of Australia’s premier circus, and is dedicated to constant innovation and modernisation with extraordinary artists continually arriving from all over the world.

You’ll see such jaw-dropping acts as The Wheel of Steel, The Globe of Death, The Roman Rings, Cloud Swing and Juggling Monchito, as well as hoola hoops, clowns, illusionists and unicycle performers – all kept in line by the Ringmaster.

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The whole family will enjoy a two-hour action-packed show that is guaranteed to tap into the nostalgia we all hold for a classic circus experience. Witness the stunning line-up of international artists, tantalising tricks, Las Vegas-style illusions and captivating production techniques. With heating and cooling capabilities under the big top, it’s the ideal entertainment for little kids and big kids regardless of the weather.

Keep your eyes peeled on Frankly Frankston’s Facebook page for an exciting competition.

SILVERS CIRCUS

A: Bata Shoe Grounds, 1158 Nepean Highway, Mornington

W: www.silverscircus.com.au and ticketmaster.com.au

Green light for Gig line-up

An enticing array of emerging and established bands has been confirmed for Gig on the Green in Mount Eliza Village on Saturday, February 3.

Visitors to the free community festival will be spoilt for choice, no matter what their tastes.  The line-up includes Blues Mountain, The Ben Whiting Band, SugaTree, Ben Jansz (pictured), Del Sinki, Young Vincent, Chango TRee, Slumplifter, Andy Phillips and the evergreen Captain Spalding.

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Based on the Village Green outside Canadian Bay Hotel, the music will run from 2-8pm outdoors, with supporting performances in local cafes and restaurants ‘til late. A family activity zone will be based in nearby Rotary Park.

So leave the car at home and head into the heart of Mount Eliza to enjoy another amazing, foot-tapping festival.  It’s all about bringing the community together, and it’s the community that makes our little Village so special! 

Gig on the Green is brought to you by your hard-working local traders and the Mount Eliza Chamber of Commerce.  Details: facebook.com/GigontheGreen3930

 

Friendships tested in thrilling drama

The Murray family have been farming the land along the Darling River for five generations. For Tom Murray, it’s all he’s ever known. When his childhood friends Lucy and Billy reappear, deep friendships are tested and long-buried secrets are finally awakened – and Tom must make the long journey downstream to reconcile past wrongs and to fight for his wife.

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From the multi-award-winning screenwriter of Last Cab to Darwin comes a thrilling new Australian drama, brought to you by the producers and creative team behind Stones In His Pockets and with Grant Cartwright in the title role.

Thomas Murray and the Upside Down River will be performed at Frankston Arts Centre on Saturday, March 10, at 7.30pm. Tickets are $27-$57 and can be booked on theFAC.com.au, in person at Frankston Arts Centre or by calling 9784 1060.

FRANKSTON ARTS CENTREA: 27-37 Davey St, Frankston
T: 9784 1060
W: thefac.com.au

 

Much-loved songstress returns to FAC

One of Australia’s most versatile and talented entertainers is coming to Frankston for two sensational shows.

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Silvie Paladino is well-known to TV viewers from her appearances on Carols By Candlelight and has performed throughout Australia, Asia and London’s West End.  Accompanied by David Cameron on piano, Silvie will entertain you with songs from her vast repertoire, including classics from musicals, hits by female vocalists and songs of inspiration.

The Voice of Silvie Paladino is at the Frankston Arts Centre on Friday, February 9, at 10.30am and 1.30pm. Tickets are $20 and can be booked on theFAC.com.au, in person at the centre or by calling 9784 1060. Complimentary refreshments will be served before each show, and you can make a day of it and enjoy a two-course lunch at noon – a perfect opportunity for groups and clubs to catch up. Seats will fill up fast so it’s best to book early.

FRANKSTON ARTS CENTRE
A: 27-37 Davey St, Frankston
T: 9784 1060
W: thefac.com.au

 

It’s game on at Frankston Waterfront

Lock in the weekend of January 26-28 for the entire family and get down to the Frankston Waterfront for free entry to a mammoth festival of live music, food trucks, sporting fun and more.

After an astoundingly successful first year in 2017, Australian Beach Games 2018 will descend on six cities in five states at six spectacular beach locations - and it all starts right here in Frankston.

Visitors can do as little or as much as they want.  There are numerous sports on offer to enter as an individual or a team, or you can just come along for a bite to eat and enjoy the music and the fantastic atmosphere.

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The Australian Beach Games is a great way to keep your fitness and sporting prowess going during the summer holidays while having a great time with friends.

Registrations are now open at australianbeachgames.com.au for all sorts of sports, including 3x3 basketball, netball, frisbee, touch, handball, volleyball, soccer, dodgeball, swimming, table tennis and more.  There’s even a free chess tournament for anyone who likes to take things a little more slowly.

Imagine a weekend of playing sport on the beach with your mates, followed by a cold one and a bite to eat while listening to live music down by the pier as the sun sets.  It doesn’t get much better than that!

Go to australianbeachgames.com.au for details and follow the games on Facebook @ozbeachgames and Instagram @australianbeachgames.

 

Watch the stars come out

The picturesque Emu Plains Reserve in Balnarring will once again be transformed into a stunning open-air cinema this summer, giving filmgoers the opportunity to enjoy a magical movie experience underneath the towering stringybark gums.

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For an evening the whole family will adore, come early for some amazing live local entertainment, mouthwatering food and a bar stocked with the Peninsula’s own Chirping Bird Wines and Red Hill Brewery beers.

Gift certificates are now available online and make the perfect Christmas gift for family and friends.

The season will run from January 3-12. Gates open at 6.30pm and the movies begin at sundown (about 8.45pm). Tickets start from $10, with children under 5 admitted free, and are available at stringybarkcinema.com