cknowledgements - gellihouse

Page i Edition 1 (2016)

CKNOWLEDGEMENTS The Gellibrand Community House acknowledges the support of the SPARC funding program from Country Fire Authority (CFA) which provided the funding for the Gelli Guide.

The project workers for the Gelli Guide were Chris Towers from Kawarren who undertook the research and Glenda Harrison from Wyelangta who developed the guide ready for print.

Our thanks to the Gellibrand Art Group for their thoughtful sketches which have so beautifully captured many images we are familiar with in this part of the Otways.

Ann Hennessy Beverley Armistead Damian Hogan

Jenny McDougall Marina Lewis Rosaria Lambert

Thank you also to the many local people who provided ideas and found telephone numbers early in the life of the project, or came in later to make suggestions and road test the Gelli Guide.

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ROM THE GELLIBRAND COMMUNITY HOUSE COMMITTEE

Welcome to The Gelli Guide - a one stop read about living in the Gellibrand area. This inaugural edition is in good old fashioned print so it won’t disappear if the power goes off and there is plenty of space for additions you may like to add along the way.

Whether you are a frequent or occasional visitor, have moved here recently or have lived here for a long time there is a certain sense of arrival as you cross the Gellibrand River bridge into the township. Gellibrand has great local attractions, groups to join, great galleries with local arts and crafts; all listed in the Gelli Guide alongside everyday information such as which roads belong to which authority; where to pay bills and when to burn off.

Our food producers, tradespersons and other local people providing services feature in the Local People for Local Work and Local Food sections. This listing is a beginning. If we have missed you we are sorry and we ask that you check the back page for details on how to be included in subsequent editions.

As Gellibrand is a very high risk wildfire area our emergency section has both local and CFA information to help you plan and prepare for wildfire. If you are new to the area make sure you take advantage of the local Put Yourself on the Map program – it just takes one phone call and the details are in the emergency section.

Finally, thank you to the many local people who have contributed to this project.

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The area covered by the Gelli Guide

Put yourself on the Fire Map! If you have moved into the Gellibrand

region, contact Dave Larson on 5235 8218 to make sure you are on

the emergency services map.

Gellibrand

Burtons Lookout

Kawarren

Beech ForestFerguson

Carlisle River

Colac

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A Accommodation 72 Architecture 15 Adult Day Activity Centre - Colac

36 Art Group 45

Alpaca Shearing 15 Attractions 62 Antenna Installation/Technician

15 Australia Post Outlet 2

Apples 24 Automotive 15

B Barwon Community Legal Service

40 Builders 16

Bee and Wasp Swarms 11 Burning off 6 Beech Forest Hall 48 Bush Block

Clearing/Mulching 16

Blueberries 24 Bushfire 28

C California Redwoods 64 Chapple Vale Hall 49 Campfires 68 Colac and District Family

History Group Inc 49

Cards Group 46 Colac Area Health 41 Carlisle Community Group

47 Colac Community Library and Learning Centre

35

Carlisle Community News Sheets

47 Colac Otway Community Transport Service

35 54

Carlisle Hall 48 Colac Taxis 54 Carlisle River Indoor Bowls

49 Community House 47

Carlisle River Playgroup 50 Community Radio 47 Carlisle River Recreation Reserve

49 Concreting 17

Carpentry and Joinery 16 Counselling 39

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CFA (Country Fire Authority)

48 Craft Gallery /Patchwork 58

D Dentists 39 Doctors 39 Dial Before You Dig 4

E Early Years Directory 34 Emergency 32 Earth Moving 17 Environment, Wildlife and

Foresting Crime 9

Echidna House and Kawarren Reserve

49 Exercise

48

Electrical 17

F Fencing 18 Flooding on Local Roads

and Bridges 9

Financial Counselling 40 Flowers 58 Firewood at Camping Grounds

68 Football and Netball 48

Firewood Supply 18 Freeza 38

G Galleries 58 Gellibrand Hall 49 Garden Group 48 Gellibrand Senior

Ambassadors 36

Gas - Bottled 3 Glasswork 59 Gardens 62 Gymnasium 42

H Hairdressing 42 Horse Riding in State and

Forest Parks 70

Home Gas Barbecues 3 How long does it take to get there?

70

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Homecare 35 Hunting 68 Honey 25

I Illegal Fishing 69 Interior Design 19 Impounded Cats and Dogs

13

J Jams and Preserves 25 Jewellery 59

K Knitting 59

L Landscape Design 19 Legal 19 Lawn Mowing/Gardening

19 Letter Boxes 3

Landcare 50 Littering 5 Leatherwork 20, 59 Local Fire Brigades 28

M Maternal and Child Health Services - Colac

34 Meditation 42

Meals on Wheels 35 Motorbike Riding in State and Forest Parks

70

Mediation

42

N Natural Therapies 43

O Old Beechy Rail Trail 66 Otway Fly Tree-top

Adventures 62

Old Beechy Train 62 Otway Light Lavers Hill 47

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Olive Oil 25 Outreach Library Service 5

P Painters 20 Podiatry 44 Pathology 43 Poisons Information

Hotline 44

Perinatal Emotional Health Program

34 Police Stations 32

Petrol 52 Possums 11 Pharmacies 43 Potatoes 25 Phones 2 Power Outages 2 Picnic Grounds 64 Problems on the Roads 8 Places to Eat 55 Public Toilets 2 Playgrounds 65 Public Transport 53 Plumbing 20

R Radiology/X-Ray/Ultrasound

44 Registering your pet 13

Raphael Centre - Colac 34 Remedial Massage 44 Raspberries and Brambleberries

26 Rhubarb and Berries 26

Recreational Fishing Licence (RFL)

69 Rubbish Collection 4

S School Bus 54 Solar 20 Schools 6 South West Do Care -

Colac 37, 51

Seasonal Fruit and Vegetables

26 Spiders 12

Snake Catchers 11 Street Lights 3 Soap and Candles 60

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T Theatres 60 Tree Removal 21

U University of the Third Age - Colac 37, 50

V Veterinary Clinics - Colac

12 Visitor Rubbish Bins 5

Visiting State Parks and Forests

68

W Walking Group 51 Winter Road Closures 8 Water 21 Wood Fired Pottery 60 Water Tanks and Supplies

22 Woodwork 60

Wildlife 10 Wounded Animals 12

Y Youth Health Hub 38

In pre-European times the Gellibrand area was a meeting place for both Gatabanut and Gulidjan indigenous nations. The river and township were named after early explorer and lawyer Joseph Tyce Gellibrand who became lost and disappeared in the thickly-forested Otway Ranges in 1837.

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ocal Information If it’s been asked before ..... the answer might just be here

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In 1902 the first general store was established by Edward Porter. Subsequent owners include: Joe Marks Junior, Claude Kendall, Albert Marks, L Parker, Albert King, Ida and Albert Billings, Keith and Marg Anderson, Alan Anderton, Abby Sprague, Vic Stringer, John and Margaret Jess, Gordon and Margaret Morrow, Frank and Jenny Garner, Ken and Denise Hanson, Roger and Sue Symonds , John and Linda Sullivan, Richard and Bernadette Dawes, Paul and Maria Koczak.

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Australia Post Outlet Monday to Friday 9.00 am to 5.00 pm, Saturday 9.00 am to noon available at the Gellibrand River General Store

Phones You may not have mobile network range in the Gellibrand and Otways region. Public telephones are located: x main street of Gellibrand opposite the Gellibrand

General Store x main street Beech Forest opposite the Beech Forest

Hotel x Carlisle River Hall carpark.

Power Outages

In case of Power Outage and/or network failure consider x A corded phone x A battery operated radio

Public Toilets x Carlisle River, at the Playground x Beech Forrest, Beech Forest Road x Gellibrand, Rex Norman Reserve x Loves Creek/Kawarren, Colac-Lavers Hill Road

Powercor T Service difficulties and faults – 24 hr - 13 24 12

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Letter Boxes x Outside Carlisle River Hall x Outside Gellibrand River General store

Gas - Bottled x Elgas LPG bottled gas can be ordered through the

Gellibrand River General Store. T: 5235 8219 x Otways Tourist Park offers Elgas Swap and Go gas

bottles as well as refills. T: 5235 8357 x The Nouished at Ferguson offers gas bottles through

the Swap and Go program. T: 5235 9226 Home Gas Barbecues The Country Fire Authority (CFA) recommends that you: x Inspect the cylinder for damage eg dints, corrosion etc x Check the hose to make sure it hasn’t deteriorated x Check that your barbecue is clean as excess fat or

residue can cause a fire. x Keep plenty of space between your barbecue and

anything flammable x Be aware that if the wind blows the flame out, unburnt

gas can build up to dangerous levels x Using a barbecue indoors is illegal.

Street Lights Report outages with Colac Otway Shire on 5232 9400.

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Dial Before You Dig Avoid damage to the nation’s underground pipes and cables. Dial 1100 before you dig, every time you dig, no matter where you dig.

Rubbish Collection x Gellibrand River and Kawarren townships have a

fortnightly kerbside collection on Wednesdays. - red lid bin for household garbage - yellow lid bin for commingled recycling - green lid bin for organics

x Every 2nd Sunday from 12.30 to 4.30 pm there is a rubbish truck at the Gellibrand Football oval to provide a drop off facility for local people. - Domestic rubbish – fee applies. Tickets may be

purchased from Colac Otway Shire. - Free recyclables – cardboard, paper, cans, glass and

rigid plastics.

Alternative option – to take domestic rubbish to:

Western Waste Management T 5231 3076 11-27 Marriner Street, Colac East Domestic rubbish boot load $15 Wheelie bin $11 No charge for separated recyclables (no cardboard or paper) Scrap metal accepted.

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Visitor Rubbish Bins Rubbish bins are provided for use at: x Gellibrand - Rex Norman Reserve

Gellibrand River General Store x Carlisle River at the playground and toilets x Beech Forest at the public toilets There are no rubbish bins in State Forest or National Parks. Please don’t dump - take your rubbish home.

Littering You can report people who litter by phoning 1300 372 842.

Outreach Library Service The Library Outreach Van, which has a wheelchair lift, parks in front of Gellibrand River Art Gallery each fortnight on Wednesdays between 11 am and midday. x Fiction and non-fiction books for all ages x Talking books on CDs and DVDs x Large print books and magazines x Items can be borrowed and returned to any library

branch. Further information: M 0408 525 538

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Burning off Burning off, incinerators, bonfires and fireworks are all regulated by State and Local Laws. Fire danger periods are normally from November to May but as these vary check the CFA website http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/

Inside the fire danger period No burning off can occur without a permit. x Small (domestic) burns – a Schedule 13 Permit is

available for burning off (including using an incinerator). Contact Colac Otway Shire’s Fire Prevention Department on 5232 9400.

x Large scale burns – a Schedule 14 Permit is required. Contact the Country Fire Authority (CFA) 5232 1923.

Outside the fire danger period Within the township of Gellibrand, incinerators and burning off is only on nominated days which currently are Friday and Saturday. For more information contact the Colac Otway Shire on 5232 9400.

If you light a fire you are legally responsible for the fire and liable for any damage it may cause. It is an offence to leave a fire unattended.

Schools

Local Schools Carlisle River Primary School T 5235 0261 Lavers Hill P-12 Consolidated T 5237 3213

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Colac – Primary Schools Colac T 5231 2560 Colac Sacred Heart T 5231 5292 Colac South West T 5232 1170 Colac West T 5231 2479 Eliminyt T 5231 5208 St Marys T 5231 3640

Colac – Secondary Schools Colac Secondary College T 5231 5844 Trinity College T 5233 9200

Kindergartens Lavers Hill T 5237 3229 Apex T 5231 4271 Colac East T 5231 2617 Winifred Nance T 5231 4749 Wydinia T 5231 4552

Colac - Childcare Bluewater Occasional Care T 5231 4552 Cubby House Childcare Centre T 5231 4749 Family Day Care T 5232 9400 Millville Childcare Centre T 5232 2550 Wydinia Occasional Care T 5231 4552

In 1891 the first school was established at Gellibrand with 25 pupils. By 1914 there were 52 pupils and in 1954 a total of 60 pupils. The Gellibrand School is now closed and students catch buses to Lavers Hill or Colac schools.

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Problems on the Roads

Trees fallen across the road Stock on roads

Potholes etc

VicRoads or Local Road?

Colac-Lavers Hill Road Colac-Carlisle River Road Turtons Track

All other roads, however callers may be instructed to contact DELWP if the road is not a council road.

131 170 5232 9400 Winter Road Closures Some roads are closed to cartage of timber, firewood, sand, gravel and other road making materials during the winter months. Contractors do apply to Council for permits to continue cartage during winter and these may be granted if the conditions are suitable.

Barongarook Goldhold Road Hovey’s Road

Beech Forest Buchanan Street Denherts Track Harvey’s Track

Jackson’s Track Old Beech Forest Road Sayers Track

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Carlisle River Carlisle Valley Road Carlisle Gellibrand Road Ganes Road Hargreaves Access

Larsons Road Silks Access Moomowroong Road Tuckers Orchard Road

Gellibrand Gellibrand East Road Gellibrand Valley Road Jackson’s Track James Access Lardners Track

Larsons Road McDonalds Access Old Lardner Track Sayers Track Wonga Road

Kawarren Bull Hill Road Campiglis Road Frys Road

Kawarren East Road Kents Access MacDonalds Road

Flooding on Local Roads and Bridges Gellibrand Ashs Access Road Clancys Access Road

Daffys Access Road Raffertys Road

Carlisle River Ganes Access Silks Access Lyness Access

Kawarren MacDonalds Road Kents Access

Local bridges Gellibrand River Bridge on Gellibrand Carlisle Road Leggs Bridge Rowlings Bridge

Veseys Bridge

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Environment, Wildlife and Foresting Crime T: 136 186 E: [email protected] Report environment, wildlife and forestry crime to Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP).

Animals Wildlife Injured wildlife, such as kangaroos, koalas, and native birds require specialist attention. Help for Wildlife M 0417 380 367 W: www.helpforwildlife.org.au Wildlife Victoria M 1300 094 535 W: www.wildlifevictoria.org.au

Or contact the Colac Otway Shire on 5232 9400 for further advice.

Take care if you are using GPS devices on local roads and confine your route to main roads

unless you have a 4WD. Many roads are only suitable for 4WD and if you get stranded your

phone may not work.

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Bee and Wasp Swarms Bee swarms are a normal occurrence in late spring/early summer. You can contact a local apiarist or Colac Otway Shire on 5232 9400. Apiarists will normally find bees a new home however wasps will be destroyed. Neville Towers - Kawarren T 5235 8212 M 0438 358 212 Laurence Towers - Barongarook T 5233 8293

Possums Colac Otway Shire will lend cages for catching possums. Contact the shire on 5232 9400. Snake Catchers Colac Otway Shire can provide you with names of Snake Catchers. Telephone 5232 9400 or contact the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) for further advice on 136 186. Assume all snakes in the Gellibrand region are poisonous and can kill x Snakes are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975. It is

illegal to capture, kill or harm them. Bites can occur when people try to kill snakes.

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Spiders Curious or concerned about a spider you have seen. View common spiders found throughout Victoria on the Museum Victoria website. Web, colour markings and body shape make it easy to work out what spider it is.

http://museumvictoria.com.au/spiders/gallery.aspx Wounded Animals Cats and Dogs If you find a sick or injured cat or dog on the road, please contact Colac Otway Shire on 5232 9400 (24 hrs). Wildlife Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) is responsible for animal welfare response and recovery. Contact DELWP on 136 186. Wildlife Victoria T: 1300 094 535 Website: https://www.wildlifevictoria.org.au/ Veterinary Clinics - Colac Colac Veterinary Clinic T 5232 1792 Address 38 Skene Street, Colac Murray Street Veterinary Clinic T 5231 3375 Address 330 Murray Street, Colac (24 hr) Rhodes Veterinary Clinic T 5232 2111 Address 74 Gellibrand Street, Colac (24 hr)

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Registering your pet All dogs and cats aged 3 months and over must be registered with Colac Otway Shire from 10 April each year. Impounded Cats and Dogs Dogs and cats found wandering in the Colac Otway Shire may be impounded by Council at the pound, which is located at 33 Rossmoyne Road, Colac West. If you have lost your animal or you find an animal, you can contact the Local Laws Department at Colac Otway Shire on 5232 9400 (24 hrs) for opening hours at the Pound.

In June 1991 during a weekend of celebrations 500 people attended as a time capsule was buried beneath a large rock just off the south eastern corner of the asphalted assembly area to commemorate the 100 year centenary of the opening of the Gellibrand Primary School.

In February 1936 The Colac Herald reported that at midnight on Thursday when Mrs T Hogan, wife of the local school teacher, flashed a torch on the gravel path near the back door of their residence she was alarmed when the rays of the torch revealed a large tiger snake. This was the 3rd snake seen in the vicinity of this home in the past four weeks.

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ocal people for local work Need some work done? Consider using local talent.

People who live in the immediate area are shaded. Other people from outside the catchment area have been nominated by a Gellibrand local.

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Alpaca Shearing John Butterworth - Birregurra M 0448 673 833

Antenna Installation/Technician Antennas Plus – Colac M 0466 005 590

Architecture Donald Walker - Barongarook T 5232 1926 Nigel Jenkins – Beech Forest T 5235 9203 M 0417 350 432

Automotive Marky's Mechanical Repairs – Lavers Hill M 0438 087 111 Peter Goodall Tractor and Farm Machinery - Colac T 5231 3541 M 0418 526 842 Phillips ABS - Colac T 5231 1388 Williams Automotive - Colac T 5231 1555

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Builders Karacsay Constructions - Colac T 52322898 Greg Johnstone - Colac T 5231 1302 Tripp Building – Apollo Bay T 5237 7348 M 0429799 829

Bush Block Clearing/Mulching Dick Dawes – Kawarren T 5235 8310

Carpentry and Joinery Justin Adams – Gellibrand M 0439 613 235 Bill McNamara Building Construction – Lavers Hill M 0427 276 516 Greg Evans – Johanna M 0447 533 378 Peggy-Lee Puksand – Kennedys Creek T 5238 3223 M 0412 804 136 Simon Williamson Carpentry - Ferguson M 0422 615 425

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Concreting Pat Bourke - Barongarook T 5233 1059 Adam Harris - Colac M 0438 877 966

Earth Moving Alan Clissold - Gellibrand T 0427 041 291 Ducks Earthmoving - Kawarren M 0428 315 886 Cooky Kanga Hire - Coragulac M 0428 239 867 Otways Excavations Pty Ltd – Kennett River M 0416 031 194 or 0429 292 553

Electrical Colac Electrical Contractors – Russell Paatsch - Colac T 5231 4817 M 0419 533 301 Moran and Bamford - Colac T 52322022 M 0428 523 400 Doug Paton – Barongarook West T 5233 8388 M 0429 338 388 Fenton and Veenstra – Colac M 0408 702 368

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Les Riches Electrical - Ondit M 0427 041 505 Sandi’lectrics - Princetown M 0418 722 723 Walsh Electrical Refrigeration and Air Conditioning - Colac T 5231 4994 M 0429 314 994

Fencing Dick Dawes - Kawarren T 5235 8310 Flannagan Turner Fencing - Kawarren T 5235 8273 M 0429 149 937 Bushys Fencing and Plumbing - Colac T 5231 6643 M 0429 002 292

Firewood Supply Burning Hot Sugar Gum - Barongarook T 5233 8367 Gatty Firewood - Colac T 5231 3904 M 0418 449 367 Thompson Firewood - Colac T 5231 3839

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Interior Design Angela Baldwin Design - Kawarren M 0434 439 166

Landscape Design Biloba Sustainable Landscape Architecture – Ferguson M 0434 551 239 Lisa Stafford – Carlisle River T 5235 0207

Lawn Mowing/Gardening Dick Dawes - Kawarren T 5235 8310 Roger Pyle – Gellibrand T 5235 8187 Steve Trotter – Beech Forest T 5235 9238

Legal Neil Longmore Planning Law - Gellibrand T 5235 8254 M 0477 931 188

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Leatherwork and Saddlery Repairs Heather Bryant – Carlisle River T 5235 0319

Painters David Daffy - Colac M 0429 311 612 T 5231 1612 T and J Gaylard Painting and Rendering - Colac T 5231 4506 M 0408 305 837 Tevelein Painters - Colac M 0407 041 745

Plumbing Neville Towers Plumbing - Kawarren T 5235 8212 M 0438 358 212 Top Job Roofing and Plumbing – Beech Forest M 0412 593 125 Dave Kohout – Kennett River M 0416 031 194 Bushys Fencing and Plumbing - Colac T 5231 6643 M 0429 002 292

Solar Otway Solar Solutions - Gellibrand T 5235 9339

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Moran and Bamford - Colac T 52322022 M 0428 523 400

Tree Removal Big Tree Removal Service T 5235 9257 M 0427 306 039 John Cochrane – Gellibrand T 5235 8242 Wayne Knight – Gellibrand T 52358385 Rob Jamieson - Colac M 0428 316 366 Robertson Tree Trimming and Mulching - Colac T 5232 1143

Water Arundell Water Cartage - Yeodene T 5233 4530 M 0417 313 977 Richardson’s Water Cartage - Beeac T 5234 6585 M 0417 385 984

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Water Tanks and Supplies Windmill and Irrigation Pty Ltd - Colac T 5231 5432 Water Supply Specialists - Colac T 5231 1861 or 1300 477 443

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ocal food Fresh local food ..... good for you and good for our farmers

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Farms for dairy, potato, pig and beef were prominent during the early settlement period and many continue to this day. More recently local farmers are growing and finding innovative markets to sell fruit and vegetables perfectly suited to our temperate climate. The annual Gellibrand Blues and Blueberry

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Local Producers

Apples Season February to June Glen Loch Apple Farm – Gellibrand Juli Farquhar T: 5235 8345

Blueberries Season January to March Beechy Berries – Ferguson 3360 Colac-Lavers Hill Road, Farm gate available Bruce Rossiter T 5235 9201

Otway Life Blueberries x IGA Colac x IshShoes - 1055 Colac-Lavers Hill Road, Barongarook Bill and Rocky Lambert T 5235 8203

Otways Blueberries – Gellibrand 2460 Colac Lavers Hill Road, Gellibrand For information on “pick your own” contact: Wayne Knight T 5235 8385

Shoebridge Blueberry Farm - Gellibrand 2460 Colac Lavers Hill Road, Gellibrand For information on “pick your own” contact: Bob Shoebridge T 5235 8208

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Jams and Preserves Kersbrooke - Kawarren Kay Gardiner T 5235 8325

Otway Nourished- Ferguson Amy Bain T 5235 9226

Honey Season Early Summer to Late Autumn Towers - Kawarren Neville Towers T 5235 8212

Olive Oil Sandy Creek Olives – Carlisle River Available at the Nourished, Ferguson

Potatoes Teddy Pearce – Gellibrand T 5235 8378

Dick Dawes - Kawarren T 5235 8310

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Raspberries and Brambleberries Damien McLinden – Gellibrand M 0409 275 112

Rhubarb and Berries Clint Feldtman – Kawarren M 0417 118 432

Seasonal Fruit and Vegetables Lyn Thom – Beech Forest M 0428 586 060

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f there is an emergency This section covers the essential information you need in case of an emergency.

It also covers some very important information about being prepared for wildfire.

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Bushfire Fire Authorities have assessed Gellibrand as having a HIGH bushfire risk. Local Fire Brigades x Gellibrand, Main Road, Gellibrand x Kawarren, Kawarren Reserve, 2 Kawarren East Road x Carlisle River, 55 Gellibrand River Road Carlisle River Before Bushfire Season x Check out the CFA website cfa.vic.gov.au or pick up some

printed information from CFA. You will learn how vital it is to have your property well prepared

x Keep an eye out for local events run by CFA and if you have further questions phone Dave, CFA captain at Gellibrand on 5235 8218

x Install the CFA fire ready app on your mobile phone x In case of Power Outage and/or network failure consider

o A corded phone o A battery operated radio

x Develop a habit of keeping your car fully fueled, especially once the bushfire season starts.

During Bushfire Season x The safest option for residents is to leave your property

well before the threat of a bushfire

The Gellibrand Fire Siren is tested every Sunday at 10 am.

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x If you hear the fire siren going constantly make sure you find out if there is a fire by: 1 Tuning into radio stations:

� ABC FM � Western Victoria 94.1 FM � Ballarat 107.9 FM � Apollo Bay 89.5 FM

� ABC AM � Melbourne 774 AM � Warrnambool 160.2 AM

2 Phoning the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667

3 Visiting the fire incidents page at cfa.vic.gov.au 4 Implement your fire plan

x Assume no one will come to your home and tell you when to leave if there is a fire

x Remember power may be cut to your home if there is a fire and may be off for extensive periods

x The advice given to CFA members who take emergency refuge in vehicles is to move to a clear area, close all doors, windows and vents and leave the engine running with the air conditioning on and set to recirculate. Get onto the floor and cover yourself with a woollen blanket.

Radio reception can be very poor in the area due to the

local landscape.

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Neighbourhood Safer Place Place of Last Resort

Rex Norman Park Cnr Colac-Lavers Hill and Old Beech Forest Roads,

Gellibrand You cannot take pets or livestock and it is for residents who

have been unable to leave early or safely defend their property.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?

These are the worst conditions for a bush or grass fire. Homes are not designed or constructed to withstand fires in these conditions. The safest place is to be away from high bushfire areas.

Local residents and visitors should be prepared for fire and have a plan for when the Fire Danger Rating is SEVERE, EXTREME or CODE RED.

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Expect extremely hot, dry and windy conditions. If a fire starts and takes hold, it will be uncontrollable, unpredictable and fast moving. Spot fires will start, move quickly and come from many directions. Homes that are situated and constructed or modified to withstand a bushfire, that are well prepared and actively defended, may provide safety. You must be physically and mentally prepared to defend in these conditions. Expect hot, dry and possibly windy conditions. If a fire starts and takes hold, it may be uncontrollable. Well prepared homes that are actively defended can provide safety. You must be physically and mentally prepared to defend in these conditions.

VERY HIGH If a fire starts, it can most likely be controlled in these conditions and homes can provide safety. Be aware of how fires can start and minimize the risk. Controlled burning off may occur in these conditions if it is safe – check to see if permits apply.

HIGH

LOW -MODERATE

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Emergency Fire/Ambulance/Police 000 SES – if life threatening 000 SES 132 500 For flood, storm, tsunami and earthquake emergency CERT 000 (Community Emergency Response Team) Depending on location you may be attended by the CERT who will take action until the arrival of an ambulance.

Do NOT contact the CERT directly in an emergency.

Police Stations Colac T 5230 0000 24 hrs

Lavers Hill T 5237 3200 Forrest T 5236 6372

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ealth and wellbeing

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A local CWA newsletter reported the following happening on the Beechy Line train: A woman was travelling from Crowes to Colac on the Beechy Line train when she gave birth. The guard chastised the woman and asked her why she hadn’t planned her journey better. To which the mother replied, “I didn’t even know I was pregnant when I got on the train this morning.”

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Babies and Children Maternal and Child Health Services - Colac Maternal and Child Health Nurses provide care and advice for families of children aged 0-6 years. x For all appointments call 5232 9570 x Drop in session in Colac on Tuesdays 10 am to noon. Perinatal Emotional Health Program Telephone 1300 094 187 or 4215 8601 Free home based counselling service for parents experiencing difficulties during pregnancy or in the first 12 months after the birth of a baby. Parents can self refer. Raphael Centre - Colac Telephone 5221 7333 Free fortnightly counselling service on Wednesday's for parents experiencing difficulties during pregnancy or in the first two years after the birth of a baby. Service operates from Colac maternal and child health centre and Colac Neighbourhood House. Parents can self refer. Early Years Directory A listing of all community services, schools, kindergartens, playgroups, childcare, health and wellbeing programs etc for families with children aged 0-6yrs. Available from Colac Otway Shire website www.colacotway.vic.gov.au.

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Colac Community Library and Learning Centre 173 Queen Street, Colac Telephone 5231 4613 Children’s Programs x Baby Bounce – pre mobile babies

Thursdays x Rhyme Time – toddlers and preschoolers

Wednesdays x Story Time – preschoolers

Tuesdays

Older People For any enquiries or information contact Older Persons and Ability Support Services (OPASS) at Colac Otway Shire on 5232 9400. x Colac Otway Community Transport Service

Provides accessible, responsive transport assistance for frail older people, seniors and people with a disability, carers and other people who may experience a level of transport disadvantage.

x Homecare Help with essential basic general household tasks which may include mopping and vacuuming floors, cleaning bathroom, washing clothes, changing bed linen, hanging out washing and other tasks as assessed.

x Meals on Wheels Help with arranging subsidized precooked meals.

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Adult Day Activity Centre - Colac A recreational centre providing intellectual, physical, social and emotional support to frail, aged and disabled people living in the community. Clients must be living independently. They are individually assessed for their needs and also their carer's needs. The Centre provides a safe and comfortable environment for older people to make new friends and enjoy a variety of social and recreational activities with others. It is designed to assist anyone caring for a family member, relative, friend or elderly person living at home, offering safe Respite. Hours of Operation: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 9.30 am -2.30 pm. Contact: Adult Day Activity Centre on 5232 5351 This service is supported by funding from the Australian Government under the Commonwealth HACC Program.

Gellibrand Senior Ambassadors Tony Grogan on 5235 8320 Senior Ambassadors meet regularly with the Colac Oway Shire to plan activities during Senior’s week and to provide feedback and suggestions from older people living in the area.

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South West Do Care - Colac T 5231 1747 x Support programs for people over the age of 65, x Co-ordinating one-to-one companionship friendship for

older people living either in their own home or in an aged care facility and who have limited opportunities for social interaction.

University of the Third Age - Colac T 5231 4435 Kanyana Centre, Hesse Street Offers a range of learning activities which provides opportunities for new friendships and social contact which is important for the health and well-being of seniors.

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Young People Freeza Accessible and affordable musical and cultural events for the 12-25years. For more information contact: Emma Warton Youth Development Worker, Colac Area Health T 5232 5530

Youth Health Hub For the 12-25 years wanting information and help from youth workers, nurses, doctors, psychologists or counsellors. x Youth activities and groups x Contraception x Unplanned pregnancy x Anxiety/ Depression/Wellbeing x Relationship and Family issues x Alcohol or drug issues Services are free and confidential.

Check the Youth Health Hub Facebook page for activities.

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All People

Counselling/Psychology Kim Parry M 0438 287 746 Colac

Dentists Colac Dental Practice 36 Hesse Street, Colac T 5231 2755

Community Dental Clinic Colac Area Health T 5232 5352 A Health Care Card or Pension Card required however children up to the age of 13 do not need one.

Purely Dental 18 Miller Street, Colac T 5231 2600

Colac Orthodontics 93 Gellibrand Street, Colac T 1300 462 722

Doctors Colac Medical Centre 6 Murray Street, Colac T 5232 1128

Corangamite Clinic 12-14 Miller Street, Colac T 5231 5866

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Dr Denes Borsos T 5231 6664 (24 hr service) W: All services require an appointment.

Online booking system drborsos.booktosee.com

Otway Medical Clinic 31-35 Connor Street T 5231 5300

Food Swap Gellibrand Community House Check swap dates with Coordinator T 5235 8348

Financial Counselling Rural Financial Counselling Service Victoria – Wimmera South West T 1300 735 578 x Free service

Free Legal Advice Barwon Community Legal Service 73 Pakington Street, Geelong West For appointments contact: 1300 430 599

Dispute Settlement Centre (referral centre) For appointments contact: 1800 658 528

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Colac Area Health HOSPITAL T 5232 5100 2-28 Connor Street URGENT CARE Provides care for most medical and surgical emergencies 24 hours a day.

Medical services are provided by on call General Practitioners. COMMUNITY SERVICES x Adult Day Activity Centre x Community Dental Clinic x Community

Rehabilitation Service x Diabetes Education x Health Promotion x Hospital Social/Welfare

Worker x Nutrition x Occupational Therapy x Physiotherapy x Podiatry x Restorative Care x Smoking Cessation Clinic x Speech Pathology

x Alcohol and Other Drugs Service

x Community Nursing x Child FIRST Intake x Counselling x Family Support x Family Violence

Counselling x Financial Counselling x Hospital in the Home x Transitional Housing x Youth Health Hub x Youth, Children's and

General Counselling

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Gymnasium Bluewater Fitness - Colac T 5232 9551

Lavers Hill Gym Roz T 5237 4213 Monday and Wednesday 5.30 – 7.00 pm

Hairdressing Jans - Barongarook Jan Larkin M 0429 149 732 x Mobile service available

Mediation Nigel Jenkins – Beech Forest T 5235 9203 M 0417 350 432

Meditation Suzanne Frydman – Colac M 0431 121 514 x Individual sessions available x Check with Gellibrand Community House for current

group programs

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Natural Therapies Frank Ryan – Gellibrand T 5235 9258 Medical Herbalist/Bowen Practitioner Enquire for weekend/holiday/emergency treatments.

Pathology Melbourne Pathology T 5231 6481 31-35 Connor Street, Colac

St John of God T 1800 676 823 or 5231 4263 Ground Floor Galvin McCarthy Building Colac Area Health -2-28 Connor Street, Colac

Pharmacies Colac Phamacy 327 Murray Street T 5232 2399

Colac Chemmart Phamacy Safeway Shopping Complex 52 Bromfield Street

T 5231 8000

Colac Healthwise Phamacy Gellibrand Street T 5231 4022

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Podiatry Lauren Theodore - Colac Lauren Theodore M 0400 494 867 x Home visits to Gellibrand available on request

Poisons Information Hotline T 13 11 26 Emergency telephone advice for poisoning - 24 hrs.

Radiology/X-Ray/Ultrasound Healthcare Imaging Services T 5232 5162

Remedial Massage Pam Shaw - Colac T 5231 5016 M 0407 483 561 x mobile service available

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roups to join Feel good or feel even better! Join a local group.

G

In 1921 the Gellibrand football club began. Their colours were black and white. Matches were played in various paddocks until the recreation reserve was ready in 1928. Premierships were won in 1921 and 1929.

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Art Group

Cards Group

Churches

CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) – based at Lavers Hill If you are interested in joining the CERT Team contact:

Bob and Virginia Atkins T 5237 3208

Art Group Gellibrand T Marina 5235 8254 or Damian 5235 8242 Informal gathering - Monday evenings 6.30 pm at Gellibrand Hall

Cards Group Gellibrand Community House T 5235 8348 Tuesday afternoons every 2nd week.

T 5237 6615 – Parish Rector Anglican Church – Beech Forest 1st and 3rd Sunday at 11.30 am Anglican Church – Carlisle River 1st and 3rd Sunday at 2.00 pm

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Community Group

Community House

Community News Sheets

Community Radio

Carlisle Community Group Karen Lucas T 5235 0270

Gellibrand Community House Rex Norman Reserve 5 Main Road, Gellibrand Julia Malcolm, Coordinator T 5235 8348 E [email protected]

Carlisle Community News Sheets Owen Lucas T 5235 9270 Otway Light Lavers Hill Editor T 5237 3213 (Tuesday 3-6 pm)

OCR FM Community Radio 98.3 FM - Colac T 5232 1991 Free announcements for community groups and events. Present your own show. Music for all ages and tastes.

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CFA (Country Fire Authority) For more about your local brigade or to join contact:

Exercise

Football and Netball Otway Districts Football Netball Club T: 5235 8225 Training nights Tuesday and Thursday

Garden Group

Kawarren Peter MacDonald T 5235 8372

Carlisle River Keith Kent T 5235 0234 Gellibrand Dave Larson T 5235 8218

Gellibrand Hall Kylie M 0491 158 590 Tuesdays 9 am Functional Strength Training Tuesdays 6 pm Mat Pilates Wednesday 6 pm Pilates/Deep Stretch

Garden Group Gellibrand Andrew Daffy T 5232 9470

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Halls and Reserves for Hire

Historical Society

Beech Forest Hall Anthony Zappelli M 0474 176 829 Carlisle Hall Lynn Kent T 5235 0234 Carlisle River Recreation Reserve Karen Lucas T 5235 0270 Chapple Vale Hall Emma Ferrari M 5238 3278 Echidna House and Kawarren Reserve W www.kawarrenechidna.weebly.com Gellibrand Hall Graham Sutherland T 5235 8236

Otway Districts Historical Society M 0409 059 252 at rear of Beech Forest Hall T 5235 9208 Colac and District Family History Group Inc

T 5231 5736

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Indoor Bowls

Landcare

Lifelong Learning University of the Third Age – Colac T 5231 4435 Kanyana Centre, Hesse Street Offers a range of learning activities and provided opportunities for new friendships. Regular social contact is important for the health and well-being of seniors.

Playgroups

Carlisle River Indoor Bowls Rob May M 0408 108 480

Lawroc Landcare Kawarren T 5235 8325

Carlisle River Playgroup (and Maternal and Child Health Centre) Carlisle River Hall Emma Ferrari T 52383278 Once a month

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Volunteering South West Do Care South West Do Care provides social support for the older folk in the Colac Otway Region. We are always looking for friendly volunteers to assist with home visiting, shopping support, mystery bus trips etc. Phone the Office on 5231 1747 or visit our website at www.southwestdocare.org.au.

Walking Group

Walking Group Gellibrand T 5235 8348 Thursday mornings at Gellibrand Community House

http://www.southwestdocare.org.au/

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ransport Check here for transport options information in the Otways.

T

In 1921 a petrol supply arrived in the township via the general store.

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Petrol Unleaded petrol and diesel is available at the Gellibrand River General Store, Lavers Hill or Colac.

Public Transport V/Line Train Service - Colac T 5231 4603 Open 6:30 am - 11:30 pm, Monday to Friday

12:00 noon - 3:00 pm, Saturday 1:30 pm - 6:45 pm, Sunday

Timetable/ Reservations

Online at http://www.vline.com.au/home/

Colac Bus Service T 5231 2203 Open 8.30 am–5 pm, Monday to Friday Other Timetable available from the Colac Otway Shire

Several routes around Colac city and Elliminyt Viclink Provides public transport information and services for regional Victoria. Viclink provides information on fares, services and timetables. For help planning your next journey via train or bus contact 136 196 or visit viclink.com.au

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Colac Taxis T 5231 5833 OR T 5231 2216

School Bus Contact your local school regarding transportation of students on the bus.

Colac Otway Community Transport Service Provides accessible, responsive transport assistance for frail older people, seniors and people with a disability, carers and other people who may experience a level of transport disadvantage. For any enquiries or information contact Older Persons and Ability Support Services (OPASS) at Colac Otway Shire on 5232 9400.

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laces to Eat

P

The Gellibrand Hotel is the longest serving business today and dates to 1885. Within a year of opening it was destroyed by bushfire. Rebuilt within a year of the fire it has also been known as ‘The Bridge Hotel’ and ‘The Wonga Hotel’.

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Gellibrand Hotel – Gellibrand 20 Old Main Road, Gellibrand T 5235 8499

Gellibrand River General Store 16 Main Road, Gellibrand T 5235 8219

Beech Forest Hotel – Beech Forest 35 Main Road, Beech Forest T 5235 9220

Otway Estate and Prickly Moses - Barongarook 20 Hovey’s Road, Barongarrook T 5233 8400

Otway Fly – Black Snail Café - Weeaproinah 360 Phillips Track, Weeaproinah T 5235 9200

Otway Nourished - Ferguson 3810 Colac-Lavers Hill Road, Ferguson T 5235 9226

Otways Tourist Park – Gellibrand 25 Main Road, Gellibrand T 5235 8357

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rts and Crafts

A

In 1899 the Gellibrand Hall was built on land donated by Colin Tulloh, the owner of Wonga Station. The community fundraising and construction was a rapid affair with the hall opening in December of the same year.

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Craft Gallery /Patchwork Oholaib Designs - Weeaproinah Anne Crabbe T 52373244

Flowers Lillies - Kawarren Clint Feldtman M 0417 118 432

Proteas, Leucodendrons and Australian Natives – Gellibrand Juli Farquhar T 5235 8345

Galleries A wide range of local art and craft is available through the centres listed below: Gellibrand River Gallery Main Road, Gellibrand T 5235 8410 M 0488 026 353

Gellibrand River General Store T 5235 8219

IshShoes – Barongarook T 5233 8305

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NouriShed - Ferguson T 5235 9226

Glasswork Janice Verouden - Kawarren T 5235 8219 M 0488 026 353

Jewellery Beechy Beads and Gifts – Beech Forest Linda Perkins M 0409 933 849

Knitting Knit Alpaca - Ferguson Lauris Jephcott T 0417 399 565 or 5235 9208

Leatherwork Heather Bryant – Carlisle River T 5235 0319

IshShoes - Barongarook Margot and Max Beckett T 5233 8305

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Soap and Candles Otwayana Soaps Kim Vince M 0428 373 181

Theatres Colac Otway Performing Arts Centre (COPACC) Colac Cinemas, Exhibitions, Live Theatre Cnr of Rae and Gellibrand Streets, Colac T 5232 2077

Red Rock Regional Theatre and Gallery - Coorooke 520 Corangamite Lake Road T 0488 531 637

Woodwork Philip Longmore – Gellibrand M 0456 165 177

Wood Fired Pottery Philip and Neil Longmore – Gellibrand M 0456 165 177 T 5235 8254

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hings to see The Otways .... beautiful places in a living landscape

T

In 1896 The Colac Herald reported: ‘Gellibrand is fast coming into prominence as a holiday resort, and but for the rather rough road to be negotiated in reaching there, no more pleasant drive could be had’. At this time Gellibrand was popular for its river fishing and camping parties.

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Adventures Old Beechy Train Operates seasonally from Gellibrand to Beech Forest on the Beechy Rail Trail Track. For older adults or people with a physical disability contact 0419 351 225.

Otway Fly Tree-top Adventures Ferguson T 5235 9200 x Café x Toilet

x Visitor Information Centre x Tree top walk, zip line

Attractions Eagle Sculpture Gellibrand near the hall x Handcrafted by local artist Bjorn Holm

Gardens

Lavender Hedge - Gellibrand South side of the caravan park on the Main road x Masses of blooms in spring make for a great photo

shoot.

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The Rockery - Gellibrand Old Beech Forest Road, east side of the Otways Tourist Park

The Fernery – Gellibrand South side of the Otways Tourist Park on the main road x Popular spot for a hot day and has hosted wedding

ceremonies Tranquillity and Labyrinth Garden – Gellibrand South side of the Otways Tourist Park on the main road x Referred to as A Walk of Spiritual

Reflection, the labyrinth can be used simply as a peaceful walk or as an opportunity to quietly reflect and allow the space for an answer to arise

Violet’s Pond – Gellibrand Behind the caravan park on the main road x Named after a local woman who visited frequently to

watch for frogs. Wanawong Gardens – Barongarook 950 Colac-Lavers Hill Road Janet Hopkins T 5233 8215 x Available for weddings x Group viewings by appointment (12 or more) x Fee applies

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Forests California Redwoods (Sequoia Trees) Approx time 10 mins return Aire Valley Picnic Ground Binns Road, Beech Forrest x Picnic table x Toilets x Wood BBQ x Dogs are not permitted

Museums Otway Nourished - Ferguson x Cafe x Toilets x Logging display x Cliff Young display

Picnic Grounds Gellibrand Rex Norman Reserve x Barbecues x Picnic table

x Toilets

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Beech Forest x Barbecues x Picnic table

x Toilets

Birnum Station - Cashins Road, Kawarren Picnic table

Loves Creek - Kawarren x Picnic table x Toilets

x Walking track

Playgrounds Gellibrand Rex Norman Reserve x Picnic table x Toilets

Beech Forest Main Road, Beech Forest x Barbecues x Picnic table

x Toilets

Carlisle River Recreation Reserve x Picnic table x Toilets

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Walks, Waterfalls and Camping

Walks, Waterfalls and Camping Location

Aire Crossing Quiet in remote location

5

**Beauchamp Falls via Aire Valley Road Beech Forest Walk – 1 hr return

12

Old Beechy Rail Trail The 50 km trail runs from Colac to Ferguson and follows one of Victoria’s former narrow gauge railway lines. Join the trail in any of the townships it passes through (Barongarook, Kawarren, Gellibrand, Ferguson, Beech Forest). Detailed map and brochure available at Gellibrand station building in Rex Norman Park or at the Gellibrand River General Store. The Beechy Train is available for people who cannot walk or cycle. Phone 0419 351 255 for more information. x Dogs permitted on lead x Bicycles permitted x No camping on the trail x No fires x No motorbikes or

unauthorised vehicles

x Take your rubbish home x Report trees down to

Colac Otway Shire x Trail is closed on Total

Fire Ban Days

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Walks, Waterfalls and Camping Location

**Dando's Camping Ground Lardner’s Track, Gellibrand

50

Hopetoun Falls via Aire Valley Road Beech Forest Walk – 30 mins return

Little Aire Falls Phillips Track Ferguson Walk – 2 hrs return

Otways Tourist Park Main Road, Gellibrand

Triplet Falls Phillips Track Ferguson Walk – 2 hrs return

Be self-sufficient with drinking water as there is none provided at Aire Crossing and Beauchamp Falls. **Managed by DELWP Call 136 186 or visit www.delwp.vic.gov.au

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Visiting State Parks and Forests The local State and National Parks are: x Carlisle State Park Heathlands x Otway Forest Park x Great Otway National Park (includes what was Carlisle

State Park). Campfires In the National parks, campfires using solid fuel, including wood, are only allowed in the fireplaces or barbecues provided. In the Forest parks campfires must be lit in the fireplaces provided or otherwise in accordance with fire protection regulations. Firewood at Camping Grounds Firewood can be collected for cooking or heating purposes when camping. Hunting Contact Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) if you wish to hunt in state forest as there are strict requirements. For Gellibrand offices, call 136 186 or go to www.gma.vic.gov.au. Hunting is not permitted in the Great Otway National Park.

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Illegal Fishing T 13FISH To report on organised abalone poaching, illegal fishing in marine parks and netting offences. Recreational Fishing Licence (RFL) Unless you are exempt, a RFL is required when taking, or attempting to take, any species of fish by any method including line fishing, bait collection, gathering shellfish, yabby fishing, prawning and spear fishing.

Fishing licences can be obtained from the following outlets: x Sportspower, Colac 5231 2094 x Blue Sky Outdoor Experts, Colac 5231 2347

Fishing spots There is good fishing along Gellibrand River, Carlisle River and Loves Creek. x Blackfish season closure September - December x Brown Trout season closure June - September x Eels all year Be considerate of landowners if accessing private property by shutting gates etc.

Gellibrand’s growth has ebbed and flowed around various industries such as timber and lime from the time of settlement. Both of these products were transported to Colac and beyond via the narrow guage Beechy Railway.

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Horse Riding in State and Forest Parks Permits may be required for some sections of the parks. Contact Parks Victoria Information Centre on 131963 or visit their website for more information www.parks.vic.gov.au. Motorbike Riding in State and Forest Parks You may ride on any of the forest, park and reserve roads open to the public, but for environmental protection reasons it is illegal to drive off formed roads. How long does it take to get there?

Gellibrand is nestled on fertile river flats between Clancys Hill to the east and the Wonga escarpment to the west. The Gellibrand river brings water from deep underground aquifers and its’ tributaries of Lardners, Loves and Charleys Creek. The river sustains both flora and fauna on its 120 km course through forests, farms and communities to the sea at Point Ronald.

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From Gellibrand Beauchamp Falls 45 mins

Binns Road, Beech Forest Unsealed road past Californian Redwoods, Aire Valley

40 min to Great Ocean Road

Gellibrand to Carlisle River Unsealed road

25 mins

Hopetoun Falls 45 mins

Californian Redwoods 55 mins

Otway Fly 40 mins

Triplet Falls 45 mins

Turtons Track – start of 45 mins

Turtons Track – drive through Sealed narrow road

20-30 mins

Twelve Apostles 80 mins The Beechy Railway opened in

1902. It went from Colac to Beech Forest with Gellibrand the central station. Up to seven trains passed through or turned around Gellibrand daily. It closed in 1962. .

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ccommodation

A

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Gellibrand River Valley Cabins 20 Carlisle Gellibrand Road, Gellibrand Cabin accommodation John Cochrane T 5235 8242

Otway Tourist Park 25 Main Road Gellibrand Onsite cabins, caravan and tent sites Dorthe and Corrie Koorn T 52325 8357

Carlisle River Recreation Reserve Main Road, Carlisle River Budget camping with toilet and shower facilities Karen Lucas T 5235 0270

Otway Estate and Prickly Moses Brewery 20 Hovey's Road Barongarook Cabin accommodation T 5233 8400

Beech Forest Hotel 35 Main Road, Beech Forest Unit accommodation T 5235 9220

Wanawong Retreat 950 Colac Lavers Hill Road Barongarook Apartment accommodation Janet Hopkins T 5233 8215

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Brief History of the Gellibrand Community House The very early beginnings of the Gellibrand Community House date back to the early 1980's when local families with children were looking for a building to meet and run a playgroup. They joined with other interested locals and secured a licence for the Colac Technical School Camp buildings in Frys Road, Gellibrand. The “Gellibrand Community Group” was formed in 1982 and first aid, yoga, aerobics, cards group, painting, pottery, woodwork and drawing groups were soon running alongside the playgroup. There was plenty of community interest and the programs were well attended. The Gellibrand Community Group went on to attract state government funding to become a Neighbourhood House and employ a coordinator for ten hours each week. Working closely with the community additional programs such as local markets, school holiday and women’s access groups were successfully added. However changes in local industries, services, employment, schools and information technology over the past thirty years has seen Gellibrand emerge with a smaller and older population, fewer children and changing professional opportunities. In response to community needs the Community House relocated into the Gellibrand township to a more central location in one of the small buildings in the Rex Norman

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Park. Initially a station building providing service to the iconic Beechy Rail and then a maternal and child health centre for local families, the building has long been close to the hearts of the Gellibrand community. Arts, crafts, exercise classes, cards groups and children’s activities continue to form an integral part of the Community House’s work alongside social advocacy on issues like mobile phone reception, local infrastructure and preparedness for natural disaster. The house is open 20 hours a week Tuesday to Friday 9 am to 2 pm and remains a community run not for profit organisation. The Gelli House is here to support initiatives that have a positive social impact, the possibilities are endless. With community drive and dedicated volunteers, Community Houses across the state deliver life changing programs on a grass roots level. New volunteers and board members are always welcome. If you want to be included in further editions of the Gelli Guide contact the Gellibrand Community House at

Rex Norman Reserve 5 Main Road, Gellibrand

T 5235 8348 Or log your details at

[email protected]

cknowledgements - gellihouse

Documents