Forrest Post July 2015

July 2015 1

The Forrest Hall will soon have a new, watertight roof, and the Forrest Men’s Shed will finally have a complete fit-out. Colac Otway Shire Council funded these important projects as part of its Small Towns Improvements Program for 2015-16, announced at the end of June.

Cr Michael Delahunty said he was pleased the council was able to fund the two projects: ‘They were both

deserving projects and it’s a good reward for all the work the community has put into the Hall and the Men’s Shed. Most of the work that’s been done there is by volunteers and it’s great to see them achieving

recognition, and being able to build on the work they’ve done in the past.’

Hall Committee President Debbie Frizon said she was excited to have received the funds to start work on replacing the hall roof. ‘I would also like to thank the dedicated volunteers who spent many hours putting the submissions for all the Forrest projects together. Without these amazing people our community dreams would not be achieved.’

Men’s Shed member Bob Brooks said it was fantastic news that the Shed could now be finished. ‘We had no idea where the money

was going to come from. Now we can connect the toilet to the septic tank! We also appreciate the efforts of Mary Dracup from the community group for her time in helping to write the submissions.’

Forrest events organisers also received very helpful contributions from the Council’s Festivals & Events Support Scheme:

Soupfest: $8000 over two years

Run Forrest: $2500

Otway Odyssey: $2500

Forrest Festival: $2000

Chase the Dog: $1000

Forrest wins much-needed fundsJULY 2015

Men’s Shed members: more than ready to finish their fit-out

Forrest Hall Committee members: no more anxiety about rainstorms

The Otway community had the opportunity to work with acclaimed community artist Angie Russi, and local artists Sue Ferrari and Irene Pagram, to form a meandering, wandering sculpture at Melba Gully in June.

Children and adults met at the Forrest Community Hall to shape cane into spheres before covering them with paper and adding an LED to create a lantern. The spheres, held aloft by their creators, formed the body of a giant glow worm making its way through the gully on the winter’s night.

Aboriginal Elder Richard Collopy

was at the Otway Glow Show to celebrate and acknowledge the glow worm in its natural environment.

Aboriginals acknowledge that the presence of glow worms is an indication of a healthy habitat.

After making enough noise to dim the lights of the real glow worms, the sculpture participants turned off their lights and waited in the dark for the insects to light up again.

Glow worms can also be found at Lake Elizabeth. To see them best, point torches at the ground, so they don’t turn their lights off, and don’t apply insect repellent.

Glow show in the gully

Kai and Joe Broomfield and Indie and Jarrah Ashton with support from from Sue and Irene.

July 20152

Local venues Forrest Guesthouse and Forrest Brewery have joined the list of awarded hospitality businesses in the region.

Forrest Guesthouse’s restaurant, Bespoke Harvest, recently received a Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence for achieving a 5-star rating. Forrest Brewery won two Bronze Awards at the 2015 Australian International Beer Awards.

With the recognition Brae received in May as it entered the Top 100 restaurants in the world, Otways venues are demonstrating that they can mix it with the best.

Bespoke Harvest owner Emma Ashton and chef Simon Stewart took a chance on a complete change of direction from cafe to degustation menu and it has paid off.

‘It’s a lovely recognition for where we have come from,’ said Emma. ‘With such bountiful and high quality local produce and wines, it makes it a

pleasure to showcase what our region has to offer.’

Trip Advisor awards are based on collated customer scorecards, and the restaurant has received rave reviews. A UK visitor described Emma as, ‘a woman of, clearly, great

insight and innovation ... who has established this excellent oasis of good

food in this tiny “town” of Forrest’. And from a New Zealand guest: ‘The chef is obviously a master craftsman who has a passion for his art...’

The Beer Awards judge brews in 18 categories, looking for the correct balance of taste, aroma and appearance that is appropriate for the style. The Forrest Brewery was awarded for its pale ale and stout.

‘It was great to be recognised by our peers around Australia, and we’ll continue to progress on our aim for gold!’ said Brewer Matt Bradshaw.

Otway Estate Brewery also achieved awards at the competition.

Forrest farewelled two much-loved people in late June.

Mandy Williams lived a gentle life in the mudbrick house and pleasant garden she built on Roadknight Creek. She died on Sunday 21 June, aged 66.

Harry Baker was father of Stuart and Mal Baker. He was also an expert gardener, and an honorary member of the Forrest Men’s Shed although he lived in Gellibrand. He died on Friday 19 June, aged 85.

Awards for Forrest businesses

Sad farewells

YOURRIDESTARTSHERE

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July 2015 3

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Sometimes it can seem like community groups just talk, talk, talk. But not the Forrest & District Community Group! On July 19 a new committee will be elected and this is your chance to become a part of this hugely active group—or at least to vote in your representative.

In the past 12 months the small FDCG committee have:

• Published monthly editions of The Forrest Post—telling our stories, building a sense of our community and raising a small amount of money for FDCG work

• Run residents and visitors surveys—capturing our opinions and ideas about what makes Forrest a good place, and what could make it better

• Won a $25,000 grant to finally build

the Forrest Hall accessible toilet

• Won an $18,600 grant to replace the leaky Forrest Hall roof

• Won a $23,125 grant to complete the fit-out of the Men’s Shed

• Helped fund the Forrest Youth Group activities, Men’s Shed accessible toilet and Hall accessible toilet

• Gathered community groups together to decide on priorities for grant applications and survey questions.

In the next 12 months, projects are underway to gain improvements for Forrest that residents and visitors called for in their survey responses. These include:

• Applying for a community alert system to warn of bushfires

• Running film nights—the first will be a double bill at the Forrest Hall on 31 October

• Building a Forrest website, providing information for visitors and residents

The FDCG is also lobbying numerous politicians to retain use of the DELWP (formerly DEPI) landholdings for community purposes, when the offices leave town next year. Options could include a fire refuge, forest ecology/information/history centre, and a mountain bike juniors and skills track.

Time to vote for your representatives

FDCG annual General meetinGSunday 19 July

at the Forrest Hall at 3pmFollowed by afternoon tea.

All Forrest & district residents are welcome.

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Barwon Downs phone tower approvedA new Telstra base station has been approved

for Barwon Downs, which is currently recognisedas a mobile phone black spot.

Construction could start as soon as December, but it may be up to 3 years away. Yoedene has also secured funding to deliver coverage through to Birregurra, according to

Federal MP Sarah Henderson.

July 20154

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The 10th annual Forrest Soupfest was an outstanding success. After a drizzly Saturday, the sun came out and shone on both the Run Forrest trail runners and the estimated 3000 people who joined in the activities at the hall.

The Forrest and District Lions Club sold approximately 440 litres of soup. This

year every hospitality venue in town donated a different soup to create a fantastic choice for the eagerly queuing customers, and all sold out by mid-afternoon.

Bespoke Harvest produced 75 litres of potato, leek and bacon, The Corner Store 30 litres of red lentil curry, The Brewery 75 litres of

beer and cheddar, the Forrest General Store 75 litres of spicy carrot and Wonky Donkey 75 litres of vegetable with bacon bone. The Forrest Lions made an extra quantity of pumpkin (180 litres) and was left with only 40 litres to donate to the

football club.

The event has been coordinated by the Lions Club, but is successfully transitioning to a community-run event under its own committee. The Lions Club raised over $10,000 on the day, making a profit of around $4800 after costs.

The various community groups who participated all reported a very busy and

successful day, and the money they made will all go back into our community.

The Forrest Neighbourhood House ran out

of pizzas at 2pm, generating $870 in profits. The Hall Committee gold coin donation and raffle raised over $2000 towards the cost of replacing the roof, and the Barwon Downs Tennis Club sold out of all their food and made $2200. The Forrest Learning Centre’s profit of $2500 will subsidise the children’s swimming program later in the year. The Men’s Shed raised $500 from their sausage sizzle to put towards their building fit-out. In all cases, volunteers created and sold their wares in an amazing community effort.

Every business in town reported being flat out all day, demonstrating that the value of the event extends well beyond soup sales.

Between them, the Forrest Soupfest and Run Forrest Trail Run events are estimated to bring hundreds of thousands of dollars into the town once the weekend’s accommodation and meals, event fees and expenditure at the Soupfest are taken into consideration.

CATEGORY WINNERSTraditional Pumpkin Soup - Belinda Matheson, Forrest

Open Soup - Andrew Howe, Forrest - Bachelor Soup

Children’s Soup - Hunter Scott, Forrest - Chicken Wonton Soup

Pickles, Relishes & Sauces - James Olver, Barwon Downs - Boysenberry Vinegar

Conserves - James Olver, Barwon Downs - Loganberry Jam

Homebrew Beer - Nathan Lewis, Birregurra - Cherry Smoked Ale

Homemade Wine - James Olver, Barwon Downs - Plum Port

Biggest Vegetable - Rusty Berther, Barwon Downs - Marrow

People’s Choice Soup - Bespoke Café @ Forrest Guesthouse

Forrest Holiday Cleaning & MaintenanCe serviCe

Farm & Home MaintenanceBuilding and CarpentryHoliday Homes Cleaning

Pensioner & Seniors Card WelcomeOtways Local Area

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WHAT A SOUPER DAY!

July 2015 5

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The Run Forrest Trail Run was a sell-out on the Queen’s Birthday weekend, with a 25 percent increase in numbers over last year.

Runners took on distances of 10km and 21km, and the children’s 5km event drew a crowd of entrants. The three events utilised the trails from the West Barwon River to Lake Elizabeth, with the half-marathon circling the lake before returning to town.

‘The conditions on the day were perfect and we had a fantastic turnout, with runners coming from all over to compete,’ said race director Mick Sheehan.

‘The feedback about the course was that many found it tough, but because of the

scenery it was worthwhile,’ said Mick. ‘People loved running among the ferns and hills – they’re already planning to return next year.’

The challenge varied from runner to runner. Some talked about the climbs, while others found the narrower and muddier Red Carpet trail slowed them down on the downhill leg. There was a sense of pride and achievement from those who took part.

Rob Baker finished the 21 kilometre run in first place in 1 hour and 30 minutes while Renee Lane led the women home

in an hour and 42 minutes. Both had narrow victories.

‘We were rapt with the turnout and especially with the community support,’ said fellow organiser Bindy Sheehan. Details of the 2016 event are online at www.runforest.com.au.

Run Forrest bigger than ever

July 20156

Why did you decide to buy a place in Forrest?

I was building a house for an old boss down at Skenes Creek and always drove through Forrest and thought what a great little town. My little dream has finally come true. The history of the town and the town’s people I’ve learnt about since I’ve been here. It’s been refreshing to realise there is more than just the hustle and bustle of big cities, which these days don’t really entice me.

What do you like about the area?

I love the smell as you drive in, and just the freshness. Everyone is so friendly and helpful, which is something I’m not that used to. Jeff Fox, my neighbour, has taught me a lot about the area and its history. We went motorbike riding down to the old sawmill area in the bush and he explained the tunnel that went through the mountain. Things like that give me shivers down my spine. Also the wildlife, especially the

eagles and the kookaburras, I love.

Your business is a bit out of the ordinary. Tell us a bit about Rocket Science.

Rocket Science is a bit of a diverse business. We build random huge stuff and mainly giant LEGO around Australia. We also build sets for movies and television, but we always get the weirdest jobs, which are always a challenge and can give me some sleepless nights. Feel free to check out our website: www.rocketscienceevents.com.au.

What does the future hold?

I would hope that the future brings happiness and good health. I am looking forward to being in Forrest

on more of a full-time basis and not travelling so much for work. I would like to get out on the mountain bike a bit more and get fit – maybe have a few less beers when I am in Forrest (ha ha). I’m also looking forward to being involved in the community at any level, to do my bit and help out.

Who’s

New

Johnno

Aust

in

Johnno with his giant LEGO Christmas tree

The Forrest Post is an initiative of the Forrest and District Community Group. Every effort is made to remain current, accurate and non-partisan. Feedback, submissions and advertising input are encouraged. Submissions may be edited. You may request an electronic version by email delivery. © Forrest and District Community GroupContact [email protected] Editors Mandy Bishop and Mary DracupLayout Laura McKinnon Printed by ARP

Current and all back issues available online at: http://issuu.com/theforrestpost

July 2015 7

WHAT’S HAPPENING!

ChurCh ServiCeS

Anglican services2nd & 4th Sundays,

11.15amuniting services

1st Sunday, 10.30amSt James Church, Grant St, Forrest

Brew Crew Social RidesDepart 6.15pm every Thursday from Forrest Brewery

Forrest FNC FixtureJuly 4: South Colac - AwayJuly 11: Lorne - HomeJuly 18: Irrewarra/Beeac - AwayJuly 25: Colac Imperials - Home

FORREST OP SHOPOPEN FRIDAY

9.30AM-3PM & SATURDAY

10.30AM-4PMSt James Church, Grant St, Forrest

DONATIONS WELCOME

When did you come to Forrest, and why?

I came here about 35 years ago, looking for a weekender away from the city. Our house was very basic, just two bedrooms and the laundry and toilet outside, but it was a great town. It was working class with the mill working back then and I liked

that. There were a lot of good people here then and there’s even more now! My partner Nada has been here about 15 years, she really likes Forrest too. I’ve just retired so I’m here pretty well full-time now, though Nada still works part-time in Geelong.

What has kept you here?

Forrest suits what I like to do. I love trout fishing, and I love getting down the coast and doing a bit of free diving. I’ve got a motorbike and I like to get around the tracks in the bush too.

One of the things that’s great, especially for retirees, is the Men’s Shed. Since that’s been going it’s pulled men of all sorts together: farmers, timber workers, dare I say union officials!

I’m proud of the work our group has done to raise the funds and organise things to get as far as we have with it.

What is a change you’ve noticed?

I saw the downturn when the mill closed. But with the advent of the Brewery and the Guesthouse, it’s really hit its straps now. With all the different community groups, I don’t think we’ll ever cop anything that’s detrimental to the community now. We’re pretty united and there’s a willingness to all do what’s best for the town.

Plans for the future?

I would like not to be here in winter: one day we’d like to take a caravan over to north-west Australia for the winter, but in the meantime I’ve got no shortage of projects.

Who’s Wh

oBren

dan Murph

y

The Cob Clinic in ForrestAcupuncture &

Massage TherapiesAndrew & Shizu

(03) 52366 493colacotwaychinesemedicine.com

July 20158

The Forrest Football and Netball Club held a 10-year Premiership Reunion Day at Forrest on 14 June and it proved to be a great day all round.

Past and present players and supporters made the most of the win against Birregurra and the victory song was sung loud and clear!

Not to be outdone, A-Grade netballers kept the game up to Birregurra to come away with a well-earned win as well. Ellie Goodacre, Kylie Murdoch

and Chloe McKiernan put in a great game, while Leesa Campana and Estelle Ballagh continue to stand out for B Grade.

Forrest Seniors played a tough physical game against Birregurra to come away with a 10-point victory. It was great to see the Pat Whelan Perpetual Trophy back home at Forrest again.

A day of catching up with mates, holding up the 2005 and 2012 Premierships Cups again, and spending the day at their old home ground brought back a lot of old memories for the players.

One of the club’s major fundraisers, the Reverse Raffle, is on Sunday 5 July at the clubrooms. Contact Bob Brooks for tickets – all welcome.

Bob Brooks, President FFNC

The Black or Swamp wallaby (Wallabia bicolor) is the most common and widespread wallaby in the Otways, found from open coastal scrub to the highest ranges, and if you’re travelling along any of the less-frequented roads you are almost certain to see one

or two. Their dark, almost blackish-looking fur and orange belly are distinctive even at a distance, and with heavy, low-slung hindquarters they look awkward running on flat ground, leaning forward as if they’re fighting their way into a high wind.

Kangaroos may move more elegantly, but Black wallabies are designed for forward power and I have seen a big male scale a very steep clay bank 5 metres high in about 3 seconds, with just two bounds and no hesitation or slipping. Usually solitary, if you see several adults together one is probably a female nearing mating time, which can be at any time of year. Or if you’re really lucky you may see a mother with a youngster that has recently left the pouch before they go their own ways, the two of them standing with identically astonished expressions, usually with grass dangling from their mouths.

Red-necked wallabies (Macropus rufogriseus) are also reasonably common in more open country, but as they are much more closely related to Grey kangaroos, many people mistake them for a very young kangaroo with unusually orangey fur around the shoulders.

Nick Romanowski

Wallabies

The Black or Swamp Wallaby

Winners are grinners!

Great day! Great atmosphere! Great results!