Guides Attractions Events in Victoria

Music Glenelg Inc. presents - "It Started form The Sea" - Portland: Victoria's birthplace.

The event seeks to take advantage of the visit of HMB Endeavour to Portland reinforce and promote Portland's History as Victoria's Birthplace (Victoria's First European Settlement).

The Endeavour's visit also provides the catalyst for the establishment of an annual event for Portland and the Glenelg Shire which will promote the magnificent environmental assets and tourist attractions of the area. It will also parallel both Indigenous and European (non-Indigenous) history throughout its 14 day period, in particular.

The event celebrates:
- The first permanent settlers - the Henty Family and their massive contribution to the area and their settlement of the area near Casterton in 1837 and named "Australia Felix" by Major Sir Thomas Mitchell in 1836
- The Port of Portland and associated industries which make a massive $3 billion plus input annually into the Regional and Australian economy
- The 2012 Portland Dahlia and Rose Festival: In its 41st year, in the Portland Civic Hall March 10 and 11

The 12 Apostles Mountain Bike Classic is a three day staged mountain bike race set to the backdrop of one of the world's iconic tourism destinations. The 12 Apostles Mountain Bike Classic based in Port Campbell, with routes reaching across the region is designed for serious recreational MTB and road riders.

The three day event is scheduled to run from Friday 23rd November, through to Sunday 25th 2012.

Stage 1 on Friday will head in the direction of Warrnambool for approximately 35-40kms. The afternoon start will allow time for participants to travel to the event.

Stage 2 starts on Saturday morning and heads inland through the Timboon region with 6okms of riding.

Stage 3 is the event's coastal ride along the Great Ocean Road and the 12 Apostles.

The event offers opportunities for riders to participate in single event days or for the full event with the focus on riders to complete "the Classic". The event is tailored for all riding enthusiasts with a clear focus on the challenge of completing the three day event.

Riders Unite! This is your chance to get together with friends and family and celebrate the 2012 AirAsia Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix. Whether you are an avid fan or new to the sport, MotoGP is an unforgettable experience, with bike enthusiasts from all walks of life coming together to enjoy world-class racing at the home of Australian motorcycle racing. Make the pilgrimage with friends and family, meet up with old mates and celebrate on an island full of fans. It is your chance to eat, sleep and breathe motorcycle racing for three glorious days.

Of course, along with the fans and riders, watch the spectacular main event with the likes of Stoner, Rossi, Lorenzo and Pedrosa taking on the breath-taking Phillip Island Circuit to bring you the race of the year. It is one of the world's most unique and exciting racing tracks, with a stunning panoramic ocean backdrop and outstanding spectator viewing areas all around the circuit.

- The complete comfort of a VIP hospitality area, with tailored food and beverage packages

- Grandstand seating with super screen viewing, so you will not miss any of the thrills and spills

- General admission tickets giving you a choice of great places to view all the live action

There is range of ticket options available to suit every need.

Visit the website for more information.

The Bacchus Marsh Tourism Association invites you to visit Bacchus Marsh and surrounds for the arrival of harvest season with free farm tours, competitions, barefoot grape stomping and more.

The festival has plenty of free entertainment on the day, including harvest competitions, jumping castle, wine and cider tasting, and many more activities to suit all ages.

Free bus/tag-a-long tours, activities and tastings. Bus seats must be booked - bookings open in early February each year. Checkout the website for details.

The buses visit a strawberry farm, fruit orchards, a vineyard and more. Most farms are within Bacchus Marsh - approx 45min from Melbourne.

Take this unique opportunity to 'Meet the Grower' and tour farms

For more details and a full event program visit the website

One of the biggest events in Bendigo's calendar, the Jayco Bendigo Cup is set to be an exciting day in the heart of the Spring Racing Carnival. The Bendigo Cup has featured some of Australia's best trainers and riders, who have attended this prestigious country racing event.

With the community bestowed a public holiday, the racecourse is always a hive of activity. 'Fashions on the Field' will be huge this year with the major prize being a trip for two to Hawaii, along with many other fantastic prizes. There is also the Enclosure for young racegoers, live music and a great range of corporate dining packages (bookings essential). This is a jam-packed racing event, which is not to be missed.

The 2012 Lakes Oil Tour of Gippsland will be held in July in Gippsland. It is part of the ever-growing Scody Cup cycling series which unearths great young cycling talent.

The iconic Victorian tourism destination Phillip Island will host the opening day of the tour.

This five-day tour will then take in various locations across Gippsland, with plenty of colour and furious racing to be enjoyed by all.

See state, national and world champion cyclists up close and personal and learn why Australians perform so strongly in this sport.

$30,000 in prize money is up for grabs! Support a home-grown grassroots event and see all the visual splendour the Gippsland region has to offer.

For further details on stage times and locations visit the website and go to the Lakes Oil Tour of Gippsland course outline.

The much-loved Melbourne Fringe Festival is an annual showcase of the breadth and depth of talent emerging from Victoria's diverse and complex independent arts scene. Kicking off on September 19 and running through to October 7, the 2012 Melbourne Fringe Festival will showcase 324 bold new shows covering every conceivable art forms, from circus to cabaret, dance to design.

For 19 days, the cream of Melbourne's independent arts scene will bring you something new, something different and everything inspiring.

The 2012 Melbourne Marathon Festival will be held on Sunday October 14.

This year, with over 28,000 registered competitors we will head 'Back to the G' for another action packed weekend of events!

After a year away from the MCG in 2011 the 2012 Melbourne Marathon Festival is pleased to announce that all participants will have the opportunity to cross the finish line on the grass of the famous MCG.

Online registrations will open on Wednesday May 7 for all event categories which include the Marathon, the Flight Centre Half Marathon, The Coffee Club 10km, the Asics 5.7km and the Asics 3km Walk.

The Melbourne to Warrnambool Cycling Classic was first held in 1895. It is the world's second-oldest bike race - ten years older than the Tour de France. At 262 kilometres, it is the Southern Hemisphere's longest bike race.

It will be held on Saturday, October 13, starting at the Werribee Racecourse at 7:30am and finishing in Warrnambool's Raglan Parade around 3:00pm. It is open to men's elite, B, C and D grade cyclists and women holding a current Australian or International cycling licence.

On Sunday 24 March, thousands of cyclists will take to the street to pedal for a cause in the 2013 MS Melbourne Cycle, aiming to raise $750,000 for people living with multiple sclerosis (MS).

A major addition has been made to the event this year with the introduction of another course - the 15km Family Fun Ride aimed at encouraging people of all ages and fitness levels to get involved.

Improvements have been made to the popular 46 km course which covers some of Melbourne's most renowned landmarks and scenic views and includes a crossing of the iconic West Gate Bridge.

Registrations for the event are still open on the website.

The second-largest cutting horse event in the southern hemisphere (behind the NCHA Futurity in Tamworth, NSW in June), the NCHA Victorian Futurity is a must-see. The best in Australian and International cutting horse action will be on show plus a range of other exciting experiences surrounding the Australian Horse Industry. Check out the National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) website for more details.

Celebrate your Spring Carnival in the country at the 2012 NMIT Kyneton Cup.

Why not do something different this spring carnival? Come and join the thousands of people in their spring outfits and head to NMIT Kyneton Park for one of the biggest Country Racing Event Days of the year - the 2012 NMIT Kyneton Cup!

Many spring racing enthusiasts are now taking the entire Spring Carnival Week off to enjoy seven days of fashion, glamour, fun and excitement and are building the NMIT Kyneton Cup in to their schedule!

The NMIT Kyneton Cup is held on Wednesday each year between Melbourne Cup Day and Oaks Day. The NMIT Kyneton Cup Day is perfect and affordable way to enjoy the best Country Racing has to offer and is only an hour from Melbourne.

NMIT Kyneton Park is situated within the beautiful Macedon Ranges, on the edge of the Campaspe River and is engulfed by 100 year old Elm and Oak Trees - a truly stunning visual environment.

Break up your Cup Week by heading for a relaxing day of Country Racing at NMIT Kyneton Park which is located approximately one hour's drive from Melbourne's CBD, Bendigo and Ballarat.

2012 Spring Art - "Drawn to Nature" - Kate Ferguson @ Old Post Office Seymour
Opening Sunday 23rd September 11am to 4pm. Meet the artist, view the Nature paintings in oil and pencil, enjoy complimentary food and wine, browse the multi-roomed restored C1872 historic building.
Exhibition continues to11th November 2012.

The annual Spring Art Exhibition also features other Internationally acclaimed Australian award winning artists. Regular exhibitors include John Orlando Birt, Malcolm Beattie, David Chen, David Taylor, Maxwell Wilks, Kevin Boucher, Ross Paterson, Richard Chamerski, Grace Paleg and many more including other Wildlife and Nature Artists.

In 2012 the Gallery will be celebrating 20 years of showcasing the "Best" of Australian Traditional and Expressionist art works. The Gallery has grown and expanded to display art works in all mediums, price ranges and sizes. Whilst over 200 paintings are regularly on display and for the sale the Fine Art Gallery also exhibits a continuously changing selection of pottery, artglass, jewellery, sculpture, woodwork and other quality works. A selection of limited prints is also presented.

The C1872 multi-roomed building is also home to a fully licensed restaurant. Centrally located within the Gallery, the Restaurant offers an extensive eclectic menu featuring local wines and produce. The historic building has fifteen foot pressed tin ceilings, crystal chandeliers and red velvet carpet with three open fires. Elegant and relaxed. Warm and inviting. History and heritage combined with art and culture.

Take a drive or catch the train to Seymour and have a look around this historic town, walk the banks of Victoria's largest river and enjoy the 'hidden treasures' of a country town just an hour from Melbourne. The Old Post Office Seymour is at the 95k post on the Old Hume Highway north of Melbourne. Well worth the trip. Browsing welcome all trading hours.

The 2012 Old Post Office Seymour Summer Art Exhibition is a Celebration of 20 years. The exhibition opens Sunday 2nd December with complimentary refreshments served 11am to 4pm.

The exhibition will feature many of the artists that have exhibited over the years. All are multi-award winning artists and most have exhibited internationally.

This prestigious exhibition continues throughout the festive season and features many works suitable for gifts, collection or investment.

Original traditional, impressionist and modern paintings in oil, pastel, watercolour and mixed media varying in size from miniatures to metres are displayed. The gallery has also become widely known for its wildlife paintings and sculpture.

Centrally located in the award winning art gallery is a fully licensed restaurant that serves everything from a Devonshire to an A La Carte extensive menu with a complimenting local wine list.

The Fine Art Gallery and Licensed Restaurant were established in December 1992 and the owners pride themselves on being 'a world class city-style fine art gallery and restaurant'.

Only 95 kilometres north of Melbourne via the Hume Highway on the banks of the Goulburn River. Well worth a visit!

Moira Shire will host the opening two days of the Tour of the Murray River, Australia's longest road cycling classic.

The 848 kilometre eight-day tour will start in Yarrawonga on Sunday, September 2, with a 36 kilometre lunchtime criterium on the Lake Mulwala waterfront.

Stage One will be followed by a 78 kilometre afternoon road race from Yarrawonga to Cobram, via Telford, Tungamah and Katamatite.

Numurkah will be the venue for a 25.5 kilometre school circuit criterium on Monday, September 3, before the anticipated 130-strong field heads off on an 82 kilometre road trek from Numurkah to Nathalia, via Waaia, Picola and Barmah.

The event, founded in 1996 as the three-day Tour of Sunraysia and raced on courses in and around Mildura, will be backed by seven municipalities - Moira, Campaspe, Gannawarra, Swan Hill, Balranald, Yarriambiack and Mildura.

Previous winners include South Australian Brett Aitken, madison gold medallist at the Sydney Olympics; New Zealander Greg Henderson, world points score champion; Geelong's Leigh Howard, double world track champion; Sydney's Peter McDonald, Australian open road race champion; and Queenslander Jonathan Cantwell, reigning national criterium titleholder.

South Australian Jack Bobridge, brilliant winner of the Australian open road championship in Buninyong in January and world individual pursuit record-holder, finished third in the Murray tour as a 17-year-old in 2007.

The tour, backed by Tourism Victoria, is one of 11 races on Cycling Australia's national road teams series competition.

It is also an important component of the four-race Scody Cup, Australia's premier domestic road cycling competition.

Life Saving Victoria hosts Inflatable Rescue Boats (IRB) from Life Saving Club's around Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania. Lifesavers will compete at Ocean Grove SLSC in both the Southern States Challenge and Round 3 of the 2012 TRE Victorian IRB Premiership Series. Events include rescue demonstrations such as surf rescue, mass rescue, tube rescue and lifesaver relay.

Former Australian IRB Champion Club Williamstown (2010) will look to fine tune their form ahead of this years Australian IRB Lifesaving Championships in NSW (July).

Entry is free for spectators and is sure to get the blood pumping as motors rev, and some of the fastest 'ducks' on water race to see who is the ultimate lifesaver!

Who will be the best Xbox 360 MW3 player in 2012?

Southern Event Management is host to the 2012 one versus one Call of Duty - Modern Warfare 3 tournament with Round 1 commencing on February 25th at 2pm.

The 2012 tournament winner will take home $2000 in prize money.

Tournament schedule:

- Round 1 - Chelsea (25 February)
- Round 2 - Dandenong (10 March)
- Round 3 - Frankston (24 March)
- Round 4 - Ballarat (7 April)
- Round 5 - Shepparton (21 April)
- Round 6 - Sunshine - (5 May)
- Round 7 - Werribee (19 May)
- Round 8 - Geelong (2 June)
- Round 9 - Moorabbin (16 June)
- Final - Venue TBA (30 June)

Come and enjoy a fun friendly atmosphere.

The Yarra Valley is one of Victoria's most beautiful and best known wine and tourist areas and here is your chance to take to the road and experience it running or walking with spectacular views of the valley and the Yarra Ranges.

Set to take place on Saturday 1st September, this event is the perfect opportunity to kick off the season of Spring with a run amongst the vines!

Distance:
- 13 kilometre run
- 8 kilometre run/walk
- 5 kilometre run/walk

The Australian International Motor Show (AIMS) is an annual auto show held biennially between Melbourne and Sydney. Both cities have a long running history of motor shows.

Melbourne held an annual show from 1925 - 2009 establishing it as Australia's longest running motor show. From 2004 the Sydney Motor Show adopted the name Australian International Motor Show, this was in respect of the global prestige the show had developed, being recognised globally in the top ten automotive shows.

The Australian International Motor Show joint venture began in 2010 in Sydney. Melbourne is hosting the 2013 Australian International Motor Show. Tickets will be available on the Australian International Motor Show website.

Take to Flemington's famous front lawn for the racing, food and wine, fashion and glamour of the 2013 Melbourne Festival of Racing.

If you love racing, sport or fashion you'll also enjoy exploring behind the scenes of heritage-listed Flemington Racecourse on a guided tour. The tour starts off in the Flemington Heritage Centre, where state of the art multimedia experiences and priceless artefacts from the Victoria Racing Club's archives bring to life the excitement that is Flemington. The tour includes exclusive access to the mounting yard, and witnessing jockeys weigh-in after racing and the 18-carat gold Emirates Melbourne Cup trophy among its many highlights!

Combining the very best of what Melbourne has to offer - food, wine, racing and fashion - there is no better way to enjoy one of Australia's finest race cards.

The 13th annual Southern Grampians Promenade of Sacred Music will be held in Hamilton from 18-21 April 2013.

The festival combines performances of fine music (traditional and contemporary, choral and instrumental) by both talented local and professional artists in the historic churches and unique venues in Hamilton and surrounding townships.

The combination of professional and local performers, provide both local people and visitors to the region with the opportunity to enjoy high calibre, world class performances in beautiful and unique venues. It also provides a stage for the local amateur artists to perform with and learn from the professional artists invited to be part of the festival.

The Grampians look forward to welcoming you to the 2013 Southern Grampians Promenade of Sacred Music.

The 2013 WildArt @ Old Post Office Seymour exhibition will fill most rooms of the multi-roomed heritage Circa 1872 Fine Art Gallery with more than 200 paintings and sculptures of animals and birds, exotic and domestic, great and small.

Australia's best wildlife artists continue to exhibit in this prestigious wildlife and nature exhibition.

The 2013 exhibition will feature original paintings in most mediums by Tony Pridham, Paul Margocsy, Fiona Anderson, Kate Ferguson, Laurel Foenander, Linda Weil, Rodger Scott, Kris Peter, Alison Clark, Pamela Conder, Patrick Hedges, Elizabeth Cogley, Janet Flinn, Renata Bruynzeel, Brett Jarrett, Merran Nuzum, Warwick Deane, Vida Pearson and many other regulars plus new and emerging artists in this specialised field.

Both framed and unframed works will be on exhibition and for sale. Plus Limited Edition Prints by many of the exhibiting artists. The Gallery also stocks a wide range of sculpture, woodwork, jewellery, pottery, art glass and other selected quality creations.

Established in 1992, this Fine Art Gallery has been a constant growing and changing gallery, nurtured and developed by the owners. A love of art makes them strive to keep finding new artists whilst at the same time continuing the long term relationships they have established.

This dedication has created a Fine Art Gallery that always has something new but can also be relied on to exhibit works by recognised Australian artists. The hundreds of works for sale are displayed as if in your home with antique furniture, red plush carpet, open fireplaces and crystal chandeliers setting the scene.

Louise and Garry, the owner operators in residence, invite you to browse the gallery, enjoy a meal in the centrally located licensed restaurant or just relax in the elegant atmosphere of the beautifully restored building and its rose garden that are their home.

Situated in the Goldseekers town of Wedderburn is the 22nd Annual Twilight Rally. The Wedderburn Historical Engines and Machinery Society will feature international tractors and engines plus all types of shearing plants. This will be a great day for the whole family.

Old engines, vehicles, farm machinery and many items of yesteryear on display. Trade and craft stalls. Free on site camping for exhibitors. Food and refreshments available.

The 2XU Great Ocean & Otway Classic Ride 2012 is back again for another amazing day of riding along Victoria's world famous Great Ocean Road, for what is one of Australia's Premier Recreational Rides, attracting over 300 interstate participants.

Starting in Torquay, the ride will take riders through the towns of Moriac and Deans Marsh, before taking riders up and over the Otway Ranges and into Lorne. From there, riders will then make their way back to Torquay along the Great Ocean Road, moving through the townships of Airey's Inlet and Anglesea.

The ninth annual Montalto Vineyard and Olive Grove Abundance festival is the celebration of this year's olive harvest. See, smell, touch and taste your way through the Abundance market stalls, new season olive oils fresh from the press, estate cured and marinated olives, cooking demonstrations and top up at the martini bar. Relax with an olive oil massage, Montalto's Estate wine tastings followed by lunch in the piazza with live entertainment. Learn about the history of olive cultivation and find the best variety for your garden at the olive tree nursery.

Take on old friends in a bocce battle and win over new friends in the famous olive pit spitting competition. Abundance is a family event so bring the kids for a visit to the farmyard petting zoo, have their faces painted and take a ride on the olive express, stopping all groves!

Celebrate Abundance in the Chef's Hat Montalto Restaurant on Saturday and Sunday with the famous shared table lunch. A festive day awaits you, with olive martinis or chilled flutes of the delicious sparkling wine on arrival. The dining room will be transformed into an olive grove as Chef Barry Davis showcases the flavours of the Mediterranean and versatility of the estate grown olives and seasonal oils. Challenge for the mantle of Olive pit spitting champion and wear the championship crown!

Abundance is an all-weather event and entry is free.

Ace Girls, Melbourne's lesbian tennis training team will help you get fit, improve your tennis, meet people and have fun. Women of all ages and tennis standards can participate in the tennis workshops and social dinners. Training nights are every Monday. Tourists and visitors from the gay and lesbian community are welcome.

The more experienced players travel to tournaments in country Victoria, interstate and internationally. Help can be provided to help you get ready for the international Gay Games and Outgames events. Ace Girls is part of Melbourne's vibrant gay and lesbian sports scene, and is a member of QSAM, the Queer Sports Alliance Melbourne. Beginners and new members are welcome - just send through an email for more details.

The ACO's internationally-acclaimed Beethoven symphony series reaches its climax with Symphony No.9, Ode to Joy, featuring one of the finest British choirs and an exceptional line-up of soloists.

Critics called the ACO's recent Beethoven concert in London "the finest concert of the summer" and spoke of "thrilling playing", "vibrant drive" and "total involvement", concluding, "this compact chamber orchestra matches anything Europe can offer in energy, precision and interpretative rigour."

Building to the symphony, a trio of serene yet intense works, swelling to Beethoven's depiction of a sea voyage.

MESSIAEN - Prayer of Christ ascending towards his Father, from L'Ascension
BRAHMS - Geistliches Lied
BEETHOVEN - Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage
BEETHOVEN - Symphony No.9

Richard Tognetti Artistic - Director and Lead Violin
Choir of Clare College, Cambridge (Graham Ross Director)
Lucy Crowe - Soprano
Fiona Campbell - Mezzo Soprano
Allan Clayton - Tenor
Matthew Brook - Bass

Danielle de Niese was born in Melbourne and won Young Talent Time aged 9, then moved to Los Angeles, won an Emmy and made her debut with the LA Opera aged 15. She has blossomed into one of the hottest properties in opera, enrapturing audiences in roles like Cleopatra, Euridice and Susanna at Glyndebourne, the Metropolitan Opera and on screen.

To celebrate her professional debut in her home country, De Niese sings a specially commissioned Australian work, which also marks the centenary of Australia's Nobel laureate Patrick White. She also shines in Mozart's joyous Exsultate jubilate, matched with a flourish by a symphony from one of Mozart's early operas.

Schubert's haunting song, Death and the Maiden, is at the heart of Schubert's famous and dramatic quartet.

MOZART - Symphony K196/121, "La finta giardiniera"
VINE - New work (text by Patrick White)
MEALE - Cantilena Pacifica
MOZART - Exsultate jubilate
SCHUBERT - (arr. Tognetti) Death and the Maiden
SCHUBERT - (arr. Tognetti) String Quartet No.14, "Death and the Maiden"

Richard Tognetti - Artistic Director and Lead Violin
Danielle de Niese - Soprano

One of the world's finest keyboard players, respected conductor and historian, and director of the Academy of Ancient Music, musical firebrand Richard Egarr directs this concert of rousing Baroque music from the harpsichord and performs Mozart's delightful Piano Concerto No.12 on the fortepiano.

Egarr's program displays all the invention and innovation that abounded through the 17th and 18th centuries, calling on virtuosic techniques that still excite the ear. Egarr introduces the music in talks one hour before each concert.

Satu Vänskä is soloist in a dashing Vivaldi concerto on the ACO's Stradivarius violin.

CORELLI - Concerto Grosso, Op.6 No.1
CASTELLO - Two Sonatas, "per stromenti d'arco"
BIBER - Battalia
VIVALDI - Violin Concerto, RV190
MOZART - Piano Concerto No.12
HANDEL Concerto Grosso, Op.6 No.1

Richard Egarr - Guest Director, Harpsichord, Fortepiano
Satu Vänskä - Lead Violin

As soon as he played with the ACO, Steven Osborne wanted to return with Shostakovich's Piano Concerto No.1, for it requires an immensely virtuosic string orchestra, flexibility and humour veering on craziness. The time has now come with this all-Russian concert.

Brimming with carefree energy, Tchaikovsky's Souvenir is an exuberant postcard from an Italian summer holiday. "The ACO...set the audience in a spin with its heady version of Tchaikovsky's Souvenir de Florence. Richard Tognetti was intent on making the most of the Russian nostalgia, romancing his violins, sending the audience into a clapping frenzy." Herald Sun

PROKOFIEV (arr. Barshai/Tognetti) - Visions fugitives
SHOSTAKOVICH - Piano Concerto No.1
SHOSTAKOVICH - Octet
TCHAIKOVSKY - Souvenir de Florence

Richard Tognetti - Artistic Director and Lead Violin
Steven Osborne - Piano
David Elton - Trumpet

This concert pairs two great works inspired by very different experiences away from home, both written for the musicians available and, as a result, for unusual combinations of instruments.

Aged 22, Schubert had his first holiday in the country. In the Trout, he captures the mood of those carefree summer days and his ecstatic delight in the countryside, in warm, beguiling melodies and harmonies.

A prisoner of war, Messiaen wrote the Quartet for the End of Time for the musicians he found in the camp, premiering it to an audience of inmates and guards. "Never" he said, "was I listened to with such rapt attention and comprehension." Critic Alex Ross calls it "the most ethereally beautiful music of the 20th century...as overpowering now as it was on that frigid night in 1941."

ACO Principals are joined by clarinettist Paul Dean and dynamic young pianist Saleem Abboud Ashkar, making his Australian debut.

SCHUBERT - Piano Quintet, "Trout"
MESSIAEN - Quartet for the End of Time

Helena Rathbone - Violin
Christopher Moore - Viola
Timo-Veikko Valve - Cello
Maxime Bibeau - Double Bass
Paul Dean - Clarinet
Saleem Abboud Ashkar - Piano

Held annually amidst the breathtaking scenery of Dinner Plain, located in the spectacular Victorian High Country the Advance Sled Dog Challenge showcases Australia's best Sled Dog teams in Australia's only snow-based Sled Dog Race.

Attracting competitors from all over the country and with growing international attention, the Advance Sled Dog Challenge is the most prestigious event of the annual sled dog racing calendar.

More than 70 Mushers (dog team drivers) and in excess of 350 sled dogs are expected to compete in this year's event which also features an exhilarating touring class event. With the sport maturing, demand has peaked for a slower touring class enabling older and previously retired dogs an opportunity to once again run on snow.

The race provides a unique experience for competitors and spectators alike to experience the sport of Sled Dog racing as it was meant to be.

Book now as this unique event is not to be missed and accommodation in the picturesque Dinner Plain Village can be in high demand at this time of year. Great value accommodation packages are now available on the website.

The 6th annual Aireys Inlet Open Mic Music Festival will be held from 15th to 17th March 2013.

The festival is intended to be an open forum and will cater for all types of music and size of acts. From full rock bands to solo acoustic acts, there is something for everyone.

They are creating a positive festival with a creative vibe where music lovers can gather on the coast and appreciate talented musicians and their music. Entry to the venues will be free however, voluntary gold coin donations are requested to ensure the future of the event.

Join in this Alcoa Australian Corporate Head of the River along Geelong's picaresque Barwon River. The largest corporate rowing regatta in Australia, this unique and enjoyable event is in its 15th year running and 2012 promises stiff competition, the chance to get fit and have plenty of fun.

While you're experiencing the beauty of the sun rising in the morning and having fun on the water, you're helping sow seeds into Geelong's future. As you see your work colleagues in a different light and improve essential teamwork skills, you can be proud that the proceeds from your ticket go towards more than 70 Community Partners for Give Where You Live, who all work towards reducing health, income and education disadvantage in the Geelong region. All whilst having a ball engaging in some healthy sporting competition, as competitors stake it out for the ultimate bragging rights of winning! .
The benefits also extend to your own increased personal fitness as you learn to row row row your boat, yet by doing this you'll also be contributing to something greater, as your ticket proceeds go to improving the Geelong region through Give Where You Live.

Take the option to participate in a Dragon Boat race on Regatta Day, which only requires some casual training, at flexible training times that suit you. This is both a less vigorous and cheaper option for getting in the water on the day, involving less training.

The largest display of Ford vehicles anywhere in Australia.

The day will include:

- Over 1,000 Ford vehicles on display.
- 30 different car clubs represented
- 48 different trophies to be won.
- V8 Super Car Drivers, celebrity drivers
- Autograph sessions
- Auto and trade displays, souvenirs
- Kids rides, entertainment, live bands
- Food vans
- Charity auction

Organised by the Kiwanis Club of Geelong, with all proceeds going to community projects and charity.

Amy's Gran Fondo means long distance or great endurance. Gran Fondo is a 500+ year old tradition that originated in Italy as a walking event, which then progressed to bicycles and continues to be held in idyllic regions throughout the world. The excitement and anticipation of this Italian tradition is now on its way to Australia.

Australia staged it's first mass participation road riding event with an absolute focus on safety, whilst offering a competitive element to cater for Australia's growing population of recreational riders in 2011 with 2,600 participants.!

Some ride for the satisfaction and pride of just making it to the finish line. Others want to improve upon their previous times or to challenge themselves, their friends and their team mates. Finally, some ride to win!

Course:
Commences from the Great Ocean Road starting point in Lorne. The course will take in the idyllic Surf Coast and Colac Otway regions, including the iconic Great Ocean Road, local townships, and the surrounding rain forests and hinterland. Returning to Lorne, making a total distance of 120 kilometres.

Safety First:
The entire 120 kilometre course will be fully closed to traffic, providing riders with the safest possible environment.

Riders will be supported with lead vehicles, neutral mechanical support, medical support and SAG wagons throughout the event.

Registration:
Registrations will open in May 2012

Community Involvement:
A two day festival at Lorne will provide great entertainment for riders, their friends, family and supporters. Commencing Saturday 16 September will be a retail trade expo, AustCycle training clinics, local food and drink vendors plus entertainment for adults and children alike.

Entrants swim and trail run and race their kayaks and mountain bikes tackling a one of the most challenging off road courses the series has to offer. First up competitors face a swim around the iconic Lorne Pier and across crystal clear Loutit Bay to the cheers of thousands of spectators. Then it's a paddle along the cliffs and golden beaches flanking the iconic Great Ocean Road while surfing friendly southern ocean swells. Back on land, you dash across the giant rock-dressed foreshore before disappearing inland through rainforests, under massive tree ferns, and past mighty waterfalls. Finally, it's time to saddle up on the mountain bike to the top of the Otway Ranges before enjoying a screaming (always figuratively, sometimes literally) descent to the beach-set transition and a short, sandy run to the finish line with a grin from ear to ear.

With adventures this genuine it's no great surprise that doing 'the Anaconda' has become a genuine institution across Australia and with upwards of 1200 competitors heading to Lorne for a weekend in December, this is one of the biggest.

And of course as always there's an adventure expo with kids entertainment, live commentary, food, drinks, displays and free stuff!

The world premiere of the award-winning exhibition Ancient Rome: Explore the Empire that Shaped the World has come to Melbourne.
 
Ancient Rome features more than fifty authentic hand-crafted and interactive exhibits exploring an epic era in world history.
 
Covering the key themes of Military Genius, Logistics and Measurement, Civil Technology, Culture and the Arts, and the Colosseum and Gladiators, the exhibition provides a fascinating look at an era of massive construction and large scale technical innovation.

The exhibition is located in the large white tent at Waterfront City Piazza, Docklands Drive, Docklands, opposite the Harbour Town Shopping Centre.

Open daily from 9.30am to 5pm, and until 8pm on Fridays. On Friday evenings, a free 40-minute guided tour at 6.30pm is available for visitors, providing an even more insightful experience. The exhibition will be open until Sunday 15 July 2012.

For more information, please visit the website.

"I think about my grandparents walking along this road - and now I am here. I'm in Malta. I'm looking at absolutely everything and trying to drink it in. I feel connected. I feel like I am home."

In 1948, Angela left Malta. Having gathered up five children, she sailed out on the Strathnavar, leaving poverty and the war behind. Her destination: Australia. In Surry Hills, she could build a bright new life. If only she could first learn the language, finish shoring up their dilapidated house, find new friends, get the racist neighbour off her back and keep her son away from sly grog queen Kate Leigh's kids.

Back in Malta, someone else has made a journey. Making his way along Kalkara's glistening harbourside, a young man with flowing black hair has returned to claim his past. Paul Capsis is walking home.

A journey that begins at a kitchen table becomes a sprawling family history and a fitting tribute to a much-loved matriarch.

Told simply and truthfully, Angela's Kitchen is an astonishingly evocative piece of autobiographical theatre from one of Australia's most versatile performers, Paul Capsis.

The timeless tale of Little Orphan Annie is back, giving a whole new generation the chance to experience this classic musical about never giving up hope. Boasting one of Broadway's most memorable scores, including It's the Hard-Knock Life, Easy Street, N.Y.C. and the ever-optimistic Tomorrow, Annie is one of the most awarded and loved musicals of all time.

Reprising one of his all-time favourite roles as the charismatic and sophisticated New York 'zillionaire' Daddy Warbucks, is Anthony Warlow. He will be joined by the ever-popular Nancye Hayes playing everyone's favourite villain, Miss Hannigan. Todd McKenney, Chloë Dallimore and Julie Goodwin also bring their talents to this delightful musical.

Creswick Woollen Mills in conjunction with the Ballarat and District Gem and Lapidary club invite you to their gem show. See gem displays and browse the stalls. Demonstrations each day include: watch how a gem stone is faceted and see a silversmith at work. Come and visit the mill, take a tour, see the alpacas, shop in the factory outlet and have a coffee in the cafe. A fun weekend for all.

The Annual Strawberries & Cherries Weekend - Bacchus Marsh takes place on the third weekend in November each year. Join in and celebrate the arrival of strawberry and cherry season along the Avenue of Honour and throughout Bacchus Marsh.

Fun activities for all the family including:
- Strawberry and Cherry trail. Experience the trail locations and have your trail passport stamped along the way to go into the draw for fantastic prizes.
- Strawberry picking
- Cherry pip spitting competition
- Horse carriage rides (Sunday only)
- Live music
- Saturday night fireworks overlooking the town at Bacchus Hill Winery
- The breathtaking Australia Fair Organ (Sunday only)
- Jumping castle, wine tasting, live music and crafts
- Delicious foods, wines, cider, coffee and sweets
- Strawberry and cherry inspired menus and plenty more activities for everyone.

Quality accommodation available at Bacchus Marsh Caravan Park

See the full event program at the website.

The Heritage Fruits Society presents its annual Antique Apple Tasting Festival on Sunday 31st March from 10 am to 4 pm at Petty's Orchard.

Taste a wide range of antique heritage variety apples including Cox's Orange Pippin, Opalescent, Beauty of Bath, Pitmaston Pine Apple, Blue Pearmain, Mutsu, King of the Pippins, Rome Beauty and Gooseberry Pippin.

Thousands of visitors flock to enjoy the musical entertainment, the orchard tours, the fine foods and especially the heritage apples. Attractions include Heritage Orchard tours, antique apple tastings, market and community stalls, entertainment, fruit tree displays and advice, music, apple sales, Freddy the Snake Man, award-winning band 'Collard Greens and Gravy', Pete the Permie on Urban Fruit Trees and espaliers for city gardens and more.

The Heritage Fruits Society is a not-for-profit group run entirely by volunteers Proceeds go towards maintaining the Heritage Apple Collection.

Visit the website for more information.

ANZAC Day, one of the most celebrated days in history commemorates and remembers those who fought for us in the Great War. Each year there is a dawn service and a march to honour those men and women.

The Dawn Service commences on the Shrine Forecourt at 6am. The ANZAC Day March along St Kilda Road starts at approximately 9am and concludes at the Shrine by 1pm for the Commemorative Service.

Apollo Bay Market is held on most Saturdays throughout the year and provides an excellent opportunity for a pleasant morning with quality handmade wares, conversation, coffee from nearby cafes and the beach all on offer.

Apollo Bay Market stall holders are from the local area, making or growing what they sell. It is very much a community market and is located on the foreshore in the centre of town. On the site there are interesting sculptures and original seating created by market stallholders.

The Apollo Bay market began in 1978 as a meeting place, an outlet for fresh produce to encourage the development of local crafts. It is unique and has maintained its integrity and high quality ever since.

The Apollo Bay Music Festival is firmly on the map as a major annual tourist and community event for Apollo Bay and a significant Festival for Victoria. Over the years it has also established itself as a highly regarded Festival throughout Australia and on the international circuit.

The Festival continues to develop a growing Melbourne, interstate and international audience, attracting a multi-age group attendance of families, couples through to retirees.

The diversity of the programming attracts new and emerging audiences, along with established followers. Excellence, variety and surprise are all key ingredients to the program. More than seventy acts across eleven venues are presented over the three day event, utilising appropriate partner-licensed and non-licensed venues, combined with two large marquee stages along the foreshore.

Future festivals will continue to build upon it's reputation for presenting a dynamic program of national and international performers in a variety of genres including Jazz, Blues, Roots, Classical, Pop/Rock, Jazz World and Country as well as it's commitment to innovative and popular special events.

The Festival is recognised for programming headline acts as well as discovering emerging artists. Although music is the focus, the Festival programs multi art forms including theatre, literature, film, comedy and dance.

The Ararat Seasonal Farmers Market is set lakeside in Alexandra Gardens. Held on the second quarterly Sunday of every season except March when the Farmers Market is held on the third Sunday in conjunction with the Ararat Jailhouse Rock Festival.

Sample the regions finest gourmet produce, enjoy a lakeside brunch and listen to live music. If you love good food and wine you'll love being lakeside at the Ararat Seasonal Farmers Market. Listen to live music beneath the oaks which are over a century old whilst you sample the regions finest produce including fruit and vegetables, cheese, honey, wine, regional beers, organic herbs and breads. Also enjoy a gourmet barbecue.

The Art Is... festival offers the regional community of Horsham a diverse program of contemporary performing and visual arts. Art Is... focuses on community participation, skills development and capacity-building across a broad spectrum of the arts. Festival themes reflect local environment or community. The 2012 theme is Art Is... at the Water's Edge.

This year will involve a mass music event HUMM is a creative partnership with the Anti-Racism Action Band (A.R.A.B) under the musical direction of Irine Vela, working with the emerging artists and young people of the Wimmera. The final rehearsal week will culminate in a spectacular live, free performance at the Horsham Town Hall on Sat, 9th June.

Future Present is a mentoring program which sees established local artists mentoring emerging artists to produce work that will be presented at the Art is...festival. These events are planned to be staged in disused shops fronts within the CBD thus encouraging audience members into the heart of Horsham.

There will be live music, sculpture, visual art, dance, circus, workshops and much more besides. Something for everyone.

One fabulous opening night plus two full days general viewing, 200+ Artists, 1000+ Artworks, 32 years of inspiration in a unique setting.

Now in it's 32nd year, Art Red Hill Exhibition & Sale attracts thousands of visitors and showcases 1000+ exhibits by established national and local artists. All artworks are for sale across various price ranges. This prestigious event exhibits the most talented from the Peninsula's thriving art community as well as works from selected artists around Australia. Artists are by invitation-only, ensuring all artwork is of exceptional quality.

Exhibits include painting, sculpture (indoor and outdoor), hand blown glass, jewellery, photography, textiles and ceramics. All this is showcased in a stunning, new and contemporary venue in ever-picturesque Red Hill.

The show attracts a diverse quality of talent including high profile local artists such as Darren Doye, Carolyn Harrington, Jenny Riddle, Shorn Edington, Eileen Gordon, Paul Mutimer, John Wilcox, Ange Winter, Justin Boehme, Stuart Westle, Gillian Haig, Michael Leeworthy, Holly Rigg and Sian Dodd. Last year we saw successful up and coming artists exhibiting in the show including Jessie Breakwell, Nikki Perzuck, Sally Courtney, Mark Bentley and Mardi Busby. Amongst others, this year Art Red Hill welcome Helen Di Tomasso, Kirsten Jackson, Ralf Kempken, Kate Hudson, Peter Russell and Sealey Brandt.

A highlight of Art Red Hill is opening night, offering attendees the chance to meet the artists and to also be first to view and buy artworks. Sergio Ercole, the renowned contemporary Latin musician will perform.

Why not visit Art Red Hill and make a day of it. Fifty minutes from Melbourne and with over 50 wineries in the Red Hill region plus numerous restaurants, cafes and galleries as well as many family attractions nearby, Red Hill is a great day out or even weekend away.

An annual non-acquisitive sculpture and installation prize and exhibition. Inspired by the Incinerator gallery's history, it explores the themes of sustainability and environmentalism.

The 2012 exhibition will be judged by Doug Hall, AM, Australian Commissioner, Venice Biennale 2011 and former director of the Queensland Art Gallery.

Total prize pool of $14,000.

Director Judy Silman is proud to present a curated exhibition of collectable and exceptional works by Australian artists, represented at Artman Gallery. Director's Choice is an opportunity to preview works by new represented artists who will exhibit with Artman Gallery this season. All available works are published on the website.

August Occasion is an Annual Art Exhibition held at the C1872 Old Post Office Seymour. The two world recognised solo artists that feature each year alternate. Odd years - Paul Margocsy and even years Agnes Szetey.

Paul is internationally acclaimed for his watercolour/gauche Bird Paintings. In 2011 for the first time he exhibited African animal paintings in Seymour.

Agnes is known for her depictions, in oil, of the Australian bush and heritage.

The openings are held on the first Sunday in August at the Old Post Office Seymour where art and culture, history and heritage, wine and food all combine. An invitation is extended to attend the openings, chat around the open fire and enjoy a complimentary glass of local wine.

The Old Post Office Seymour is one of Central Regional Victoria's premier privately owned commercial Fine Art Galleries and was established in 1992. Only one hour from Melbourne, it offers something different, if not unique, that is truly Australian.

A constantly changing group exhibition of paintings by multi-award winning Australian Artists is always on exhibition. The quality of the work is only surpassed by the variety offered. Traditional to contemporary paintings, in all mediums, covering most subjects, are hung as if in your home. Displays of individual quality Australian made wildlife sculpture, art glass, jewellery, limited edition prints, woodwork and pottery are tastefully exhibited throughout the multi-roomed Gallery.

The restaurant, with its open fire, is centrally located. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the relaxed elegant ambience, choose a hearty meal or snack from the extensive menu or just browse the gardens and rooms, glass of Goulburn Valley or Strathbogie wine in hand.

The Old Post Office Seymour is home to Louise Barling and Garry Broderick, the owner operators. You are always made welcome at the Old Post Office Seymour.

Join Word of Wine's Australia and New Zealand Wine Appreciation Class for an insightful, relaxed and educational blind wine tasting evening with a focus on the vibrant wines of Australia and New Zealand served with pairing cheese.

Because each wine has its own story shaped by the climate and soil of the vineyard, the variety of grapes, and the art of the wine maker, wine is a unique experience for the palate. Word of Wine's international sommelier Vincent Martel will lead you on a voyage of discovery for the senses, focusing on boutique vineyards and unique grape varieties. After the success of our previous New Zealand class followed by our Victorian class we are very excited about hosting this event and comparing directly the wine production of these two countries. Guests will learn about wine from the ground up, covering topics such as wine etiquette, how to best pair food with wine, cellaring, and how to talk confidently about wine by using a variety of senses (vision, smell and palate) to best describe the wine.

At this event you will discover a variety of Australia and New Zealand wines that have never been tasted before at the wine appreciation classes.

Word of Wine looks forward to seeing you at the Australian and New Zealand Wine Appreciation Class in the gorgeous river side terrace at Byblos Bar, Southbank, Melbourne.

Why not get out of the house and celebrate 127 years of Racing at the Rock by spending Australia Day at one of the most iconic venues in Australia - Hanging Rock.

Come and enjoy the best Country Racing has to offer with a great day at the Rock which is located within the beautiful Macedon Ranges. You would struggle to find a more unique environment to enjoy a day at the races with family, friends or work colleagues.

There is a range of activities available with Camp Australia hosting kids activities, kids foot races on the track , roving entertainment, food stalls, big screen on site to view all the local and metro racing and much more.

The Rock is only an hour's drive from Melbourne's CBD, Bendigo and Ballarat or you can catch VLine to Woodend Station to be met by free shuttle buses to the race course and then back again during the afternoon.

First race is at approximately 12noon, with the last race at approximately 5pm

Please note that the Liquor Licence does not permit alcohol to be brought on to the racecourse. Beach umbrella's and shade structures not permitted within the racecourse for safety reasons.

"Experience the Gift"

Come and discover the magic of one of the world's most famous and prestigious footraces.

The history and romance of the Australia Post Stawell Gift is entrenched in Australian folklore. The Stawell Gift has been held in all but two years since 1878 and has developed into one of the most esteemed footraces in Australia and the world.

Competitors in the Australia Post Stawell Gift 120 metre footrace are handicapped according to form. This advantage allows the local runner to go hammer and tongs with the best in the world and in many cases, the local wins.

Held every Easter in the small town of Stawell, three hours west of Melbourne, the Gift started 130 years ago as an athletics competition between miners in the Victorian goldfields.

Today, the Gift attracts the cream of local and international athletes who compete for the largest professional prize in the world.

No one would doubt Australia's future is in China, but the reverse, it seems, is also true: China's future is in Australia.

China's rapidly growing consumer markets create enormous opportunities for Australia's small and medium sized businesses. China is now Australia's largest merchandise trading partner, our third largest services export market, our largest source of overseas students and our fifth largest tourism market.

Australia-China BusinessWeek (ACBW) 2012 is a central point for sourcing information and advice, and the opportunities to review the latest business trends, Investment, Consumer Goods, Education, Immigration, technology, Manufacturing, Mining, Transport, Health and business opportunities with China.

Don't miss the spectacular crescendo of 23 weeks of fantastic competition in the 2012 AFL Finals Series.

From March to September Australian Rules Football (AFL) teams fight it out to make the top eight and qualify for the final series.

This titanic contest is between two teams with one emerging as the premier side for the year.

Close to 95,000 fans pack the stands of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for the grand final while millions watch it worldwide on cable, satellite and free to air television.

The final series offers sheer atmosphere and excitement and is a truly unique Australian experience.

The 2013 Australian International Airshow will be staged from March 1 - 3 at Avalon Airport near Geelong.

Avalon2013 will celebrate the 'Power of Flight' with an unrivalled gathering of vintage, commercial and military aircraft.

Avalon2013 offers value for money, fun and excitement with thrilling flying displays and the most amazing ground display of aircraft ever seen in Australia.

Meet the pilots and crews and get up close to the amazing aircraft on display as you wander the Airshow grounds.

Bring your family and friends and take your place next to the runway for incredible, thrilling aviation action. There's plenty of entertainment on the ground as well with a dedicated children's activity zone and amazing vehicle handling displays on the Airshow mobility track.

Take off to Avalon for the 2013 Australian International Airshow!

Avalon2013 is more than just an Airshow, it's a great day out for the whole family with spectacular entertainment on the ground and in the air.

Summer in Australia is tennis. Balmy nights, superstar tennis players, colourful fans and unpredictable matches that cause some to weep in sorrow and others to shed tears of jubilation.

For two weeks in January, Melbourne Park has it all. The eyes of the world zone in on this vibrant precinct as the best tennis players on the planet fight it out for one of the biggest Grand Slam(R) titles the sport has to offer - the Australian Open.

And every year it keeps getting bigger, better, more intense and more breathtaking as these stunning athletes leave nothing to chance in their quest for the ultimate prize.

It won't come easy or without drama, angst, excitement and triumph as the best tennis players in the world push each other to unchartered territory in skill, determination, courage and endurance.

Check the website for all the latest news and further ticket information, or join slice newsletter to stay up to date with all the latest news and offers from Tennis Australia and the Australian Open.

Australian Snooker Goldfields Open, Prize Money: $435,000

Format: Play will consist of the top 16 world ranked players plus 16 qualifiers; with the lowest two qualifiers playing the two Australian Wild Card entrants. Order of play and table numbers for all matches up to and including the quarter finals will be determined the day before and published by the Tournament Director. All matches up to and including the Quarter Finals - best of 9 frames, Semi Finals - best of 11 frames, Final - best of 17 frames (8/9).

A celebration of live music in a fun festival atmosphere, by the beautiful Pyrenees at Avoca. 22 Bands and performers over three days on three stages, covering Blues, Rock, Colonial, Country Rock, Celtic and Bluegrass. There will also be a Bush Poets Breakfast, Gospel session, and many others.

The event is fully licensed with quality food vendors and a festival market going all weekend. Plenty of grassed camping on site with hire erected tents also available on site. Caravans and motor homes welcome. No sites have power, if you require power try Avoca Caravan Park.

An hourly shuttle bus will take patrons (who wish to use it) to and from the township of Avoca, including shops, cafes and Avoca Riverside Market (Sunday).

Dolores Daiquiri and Rosy Rabbit present Baby Bombshells - Newcomer's Contest.

See the burlesque stars of tomorrow in the official opening of the Australian Burlesque Festival 2012! A showcase of the best emerging burlesque talent in Australia, the contest will feature burlesque artists with less than two years burlesque experience and will be judged by a panel of industry professionals. The winner will be invited to perform at the festival's gala event, 'The Big Tease' among other fabulous prizes for them and the runners up. The previous year's Baby Bombshells have gone on to become stars in their own right and they are thrilled to show you the next generation of tease! This event is designed to encourage and promote the emerging artists with audiences able to lend a hand in choosing the overall winner and crowd favourites. Tassels will twirl and feathers will fly! But who will shine the brightest?

After two legendary sold-out tours in 2010 and 2011, Australian burlesque stars and producers Dolores Daiquiri and Rosy Rabbit, proudly announce the national tour line up for The Australian Burlesque Festival 2012 held from June 7 to 24.

Touted as the biggest celebration of tease in the Southern Hemisphere, The Australian Burlesque Festival 2012 boasts 10 spectacular events in 6 cities across Australia.

The past two years have seen burlesque aficionados and first timers alike delighting in the stunning array of sensational tease. In 2012 audiences across the nation will experience more glamorous striptease, exciting neo-burlesque and exotic seduction than they can handle!

Ballan Farmers' Market, held on the second Saturday of the month in the beautiful grounds of Mill Cottage, Inglis Street Ballan. Ballan sits in stunning volcanic plains amongst a rich food growing community, half way between Bacchus Marsh and Ballarat just one hour from Melbourne by car or train.

Fresh fruit and vegetables, wines, oils, breads and pastries, meat, trees and sweets; from the producer to you.

The Ballarat Beer Festival is a one-day event celebrating boutique beer, gourmet food and world-class entertainment.

Join the festival at City Oval, Ballarat to sample craft beers and relax to the fantastic music line-up.

And if beer's not your thing, don't worry! There will be local wine and non-alcoholic beverages on offer too, plus plenty of fun for the kids.

Don't miss the excitement when Ballarat celebrates its motor racing heritage.

Thousands of vehicle lovers with their cars and motorcycles are expected to flock to the city to be part of a spectacular 9 day historic sports car, racing car and motorcycle celebration of the city's golden age of motor sport at the Ballarat Festival of Motoring.

It has been 50 years since Ballarat saw its last bitumen circuit motor race, "The International Victorian Trophy Motor Race", at the Ballarat airfield that featured International Formula 1 cars and drivers from the United Kingdom including the Cooper and BRM factory teams.

Few people today realise that Ballarat Airport was a major circuit from 1947 until 1961 with a reputation for hosting some of the best car and motorcycle racing of the day.

Highlights of the Festival will include standing start 400 metre timed sprints and parades of historic racing and sports cars around the majority of the original 1940 - 60's airfield based circuit, with up to 100 cars taking part.

Ballarat is steeped in history, but it's during this annual Ballarat Heritage Weekend in May where residents and visitors are encouraged to turn back the clock and celebrate our rich cultural heritage and world class buildings.

This year, join the Ballarat Heritage Weekend on a journey that will evoke your 'childhood memories'. Think pedal cars, dolls, carousels, puppet shows, classic cars, trains as well as Heritage Weekend favourites such as talks and tours, high tea, vintage bus rides and horse and carriage rides.

Once again, the doors will be open to some of Ballarat's finest heritage buildings - many of which are only available during this one weekend in May - so take this special opportunity to discover some of Ballarat's architectural treasures.

With many exciting events to enjoy, come along and discover Ballarat - especially the hidden Ballarat you've never had the chance to explore.

Ballarat is a stone's throw away from Melbourne - just over an hour by rail or road.

A colourful cultural evening is being organised to celebrate the Bangla New Year (Bengali era 1419) in Melbourne. SHUROLOK, a prominent community cultural group based in Melbourne, will host the event at the BMW Edge (Federation Square).

Bangla (or Bengali) is one of the widely spoken languages of the current world with estimated native speakers of 180 million. Though it is native to the eastern region of South Asia (Bangladesh; Indian states West Bengal or Paschim Banga, and parts of Assam and Tripura), the Bangla-speaking Bangalee diaspora spreads around the world. Bangaless across the globe would consider the advent of the Bangla New Year as a momentous occasion. They call it 'Pohela Baishakh' meaning the first day (pohela) of the first month (Baishakh) in the Bangla calendar which falls on 13 April 2013.

As a traditional and most widely celebrated secular festival, Bangalees welcome Pohela Baishakh with rendition of traditional music - dance, Mela (open market), wearing colourful traditional clothes, eating sweets and exchanging greetings - "Shubho Noboborsho" (Happy Bangla New Year).

Charming melody, jubilant rhythm and flamboyant dance are integral part of all Bangalee celebrations.

The Bank Street Market is set in the heritage grounds of the South Melbourne Commons. The Market runs on the 3rd Saturday of the month from 9am - 2pm.

Wander around inside the hall, the courtyard and garden stalls to see some of the best vintage, handmade, homemade, vintage, antique and flea stalls in Melbourne.

Have breakfast or lunch in the Commons Cafe and check out the children's workshop space upstairs.

Hot off the heels of New York Fashion week and capacity crowds in Sydney, Barbies Dream Closet will now launch in Melbourne. Aussie fashionistas and fans can now step inside her fantastical wardrobe, complete with augmented reality technology 'mirrors' and literally get dolled up in the style queen's most iconic, playful and glamorous outfits from the past five decades!

Held every year on the second weekend in January at the Wonthaggi Recreation Reserve, it's packed with events, displays, rides and performances, and is a huge amount of fun!

The Show is put together with the support of many local businesses and individuals. As you browse through the program or this site, please take note of their logo or name on the right of your screen and pay them a visit. Their generous and continued support helps make the Bass Coast Show one of the best in country Victoria.

The show includes:
- Woodchop arena competition: including Two State championship classes including under 21 years
- Snake and other reptiles display and educational sessions
- Penelope puppets shows and workshops
- Medieval pageantry, tournaments and archery school
- Cattle arena
- Dog fly ball arena
- Stilt walker, clowns, circus workshop
- Equestrian arenas including show jumping
- Children's farmyard with hands on animal nursery
- Poultry show
- Creative Arts exhibition
- Photography exhibition
- Carnival, sideshows, show bags and rides

The Bass Hills Classic ride in 2012, previously known as the Bridge to Bass Hills, now offers an optional run component providing the perfect training ground for Melbourne Ironman participants.

The common feedback from riders in this event has been the enjoyment of riding on quiet roads with the hills, twists and turns providing plenty of challenges. 100% of all routes this year will be on country roads. The vistas are superb with coastal and country views adding to an unforgettable feeling.

A choice of three rides are available at 72 kilometres, 112 kilometres and 152 kilometres. The run component is from 5 - 20 kilometres.

Other highlights of the previous events as judged by the riders include:
- Marshals sharing their friendly country hospitality
- Home made muffins, lemon slice and rum balls at the refreshment centres
- Well signed course
- Free authentic massages and SCENAR post ride
- A well organised event

This year complimentary refreshments and snacks will be provided either side of the ride and a subsidised Aussie barbecue post ride sponsored by Gravity Zero.

The Bass Hills Classic leaves from Woolami Race Track, 90 minutes from Melbourne.

Held on Mt Baw Baw's famous staircase feature and in its 6th year the annual Forum Battle at Baw Baw will again be one of the most popular and enjoyable events on the Australian snowboarding calendar for 2012.  Attracting an international Pro/Am field, the action at Mt Baw Baw is sure to impress.

The famed Tullicouty Cup and St Phillack Cup cross country races have attracted competitors to Mt Baw Baw for the past 44 years. Cross country skiers of all ages are welcome to participate in the 5km or 8km events which take place along the Resort and Baw Baw National Park trails.

Featuring a curated program as well as a focus on young and emerging filmmakers, Bayside Film Festival brings a touch of lightness to your world!

The curated program features a light hearted collection of Australian and World premieres, hand-picked for their originality and quirkiness.

The Festival also features films from the youth and emerging filmmaker focused programs Youth Documentary Project, Digital Stories and Jump Cut. Jump Cut is a short film competition for ages 10 - 26, with entries from Kenya to Boronia. The Youth Documentary Project involves the creation of short documentaries made both locally and internationally specifically for the festival.

The Festival also offers workshops with filmmakers Jonathan Auf Der Heide, Amiel Courtin-Wilson and Genevieve Bailey, and sales agent Jonathan Page.

For the seventeenth year the picturesque town of Beechworth will host the best Celtic event in held Victoria. The weekend of November 9-11, 2012 promises to present the most diverse celebration of Celtic music and culture.

The three day festival will showcase many bands and artists from around Australia in a series of concerts and workshops. Historic Beechworth will celebrate all things Celtic, with a full program of live music, theatre, dancing, comedy, pipe bands and a street parade. The Celtic Festival is a diverse event with something to offer every age group.

They look forward to building on the success of the 2009-11 events where the festival presented bands like Highlander, Lochaber No More, Sibin, Red Cat, The Ploughboys, Claymore, Full Circle, The Go Set, Squeebz, Humbug, The Colonials, Cassidy's Ceili, Ricketty Bridge, Shirley Power and the always well received Bhan Tre. The event will continue to host a range of traditional Scottish pipes that are enjoyed by all throughout town streets.

The Beechworth Oktoberfest is based around Bridge Road Brewers, Beechworth's own microbrewery. The Brewery was first opened in June 2005 on Bridge Road in Beechworth, and has relocated to 'The Old Coach House' behind Tanswells hotel in the heart of Beechworth.

Bridge Road now boasts a range of nine world class ales, each of them being awarded at least one medal at the Melbourne International beer awards in 2006-08.

The brewer is of German heritage, and has attended three Oktoberfest in Munich, his partner Maria from Austria has also worked at the Oktoberfest, and bakes a mean pretzel.

They hope to recreate the atmosphere from Munich, albeit on a smaller scale, here in Beechworth. To do this, crowd participation is must, so we encourage any or your entire group to crack out the lederhosen (gents), and put some plats in your piggy tails (girls), and just have a fun time.

They have arranged a two piece ohm-pa band from Melbourne for the weekend, and will be serving their beer of course, Maria's famous German pretzels, German Sausages and Sauerkraut and many more German delights.

Parking for a bus is available behind the brewery and hotel off High street.

Looking forward too seeing you there - it will be a great day.

Friday January 18th 2013 will see the tenth Bells Bash Cliff Run in the picturesque Jan Juc twilight. Held in conjunction with the Danger 1000 Ocean Swim on Saturday 19th.

The two day festival kicks off on the Friday night and continues throughout Saturday with race options for the whole family.

Competitors in the 8km Bells Bash Cliff Run are expected to exceed 1000 which is huge growth in the nine years since inception.

Those wanting a lighter alternative can opt into the four kilometres walk/run instead.

Let's not forget the kids. The Junior Juc Bash fun run is a new addition for those as young as 5 years old to 12 and the Danger Young Guns swim for 9 to 13 year olds.

So make a weekend of it and use the events to help drop the festival season layers.

Ben & Jerry's Openair Cinema nights are a quintessential outdoor event with live music and feature films playing on a huge movie screen from dusk.

On arrival film and music lovers can relax with some tasty food and frosty beverages from the licensed festival bar, while listening to the sounds of Melbourne's most-loved indie bands and singer-songwriters play as the sun sets over Port Phillip Bay.

At dusk a full-length feature film lights up the huge outdoor screen - the film program includes cult faves, classics and the best of new summer releases.

See you under the stars!

The Bendigo Agricultural Show is a show promoting the best of the regions produce and livestock. This year the Show will be held on Friday and Saturday, featuring a range of attractions considered to be the best the country has to offer.

In addition there are three days of horse events from the Friday to the Sunday. The Bendigo Show provides fun for the whole family.

Bendigo Heritage Uncorked is a moveable feast, taking patrons on a wine and food tasting tour through Bendigo's architectural treasures. The festival matches the best of the region's wines with entrees from local restaurants, all in the splendour of heritage buildings. This event sells quickly so tickets must be purchased early.

Bendigo Homexpo Lifestyle and Leisure Roadshow, is the biggest home/leisure show in Regional Victoria and will again be held at the Bendigo Exhibition Centre from 1st June to 3rd June, 2012.

Homexpo is a major annual event for the city, and attracts more than 200 local and interstate exhibitors, who will be showcasing their best products. Expo visitors will get to see everything from caravans, campers and camping accessories, Winnebago's, boats, 4WD's and campers, decors and home ware, landscaping products and plants, home entertainment equipment, pools and spas, solar green living sustainability solutions, and so much more. The expo will also have lots of do-it-yourself improvement and interior design demonstrations, giving builders and renovators plenty of ideas for their projects.

But Homexpo is more than just about showcasing the best outdoor recreation and lifestyle products. The event will also showcase the best gourmet food and wine that the region has to offer.

What's more, just by visiting Homexpo, you'll get the chance to win fantastic prizes, such as a Waeco Portable Refrigerator worth $1000 and an ultimate Fishing Experience Pack worth $500. The lucky free door prize - a stainless steel European Kitchen appliance package valued at over $3000 - will be drawn on Sunday.

Don't miss out on this major annual event as there will be bargain prices and something to suit every one.

Bring your flags, bring the corgis and warm up your voices ready for the Best of British - Diamond Jubilee Celebration Concert

In the presence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth 2 (aka Gerry Connolly).

It's time to dust off your tiaras and polish up your accents as you celebrate Her Majesty's 60th year on the throne, with a spectacular musical feast of the best British music from Andrew Lloyd Webber to the Beatles, Dusty and Queen, Land of Hope and Glory, Rule Britannia, Hallelujah Chorus and more!

Featuring the sensational 120 voices of THECHO!R. Conducted and hosted by Melbourne's favourite son Jonathon Welch AM with the award winning Footscray Yarraville City Band, opera sensation Liane Keegan and on the magnificent Town Hall organ David Johnston.

Proceeds from this concert will go to the School of Hard Knocks Foundation, Melbourne's new collaborative arts and cultural institution for the homeless and disadvantaged.

Heading into its sixth year in 2013, Beyond Hotham is a ten day four wheel driving extravaganza that offers an impressive range of trips and activities that will take you to parts of Victoria's stunning high country that will quite simply leave you breathless. River crossings, mountains, razor back ridges, panoramic views, age old mining huts, history. Mt Hotham is the perfect base to uncover the raw natural beauty and fascinating history of the area whilst playing host to challenging 4WD terrain.

The program offers flexibility and activities and trips to suit any four wheel driver, whether you are a beginner with a brand new vehicle, right through to seasoned veterans. The trip leaders are local, most of whom were born and raised in the Hotham district and have an intimate knowledge of the area. Along with their knowledge of the tracks, they also share their stories and yarns which will have you entranced!

Beyond Hotham has day and overnight trips as well as village based activities and social events. Your registration fee entitles you to participate in all the trips and includes one dinner. Food, petrol, supplies and accommodation are at your own cost.

If you loved Codgers, then don't miss this brand new production. Five marvellous women find themselves back in their infant school classroom plying their needles in a good old-fashioned session of 'stitch and bitch'. Their confessions are frank, rivalries intense and jokes outrageous as they share the common frustration of being female and mature in a world still largely defined by men.

Accidentally locked in the classroom, with nothing but ingenuity, Adora Cream Wafers and a bucket, unknown reserves come to the fore and they rediscover their capacity to love, forgive - and take control.

Biddies brings together some of the most beloved actresses in this delightful new comedy guaranteed to make you laugh till you cry.

Feisty, vulnerable and in full bloom, these gals are everything... except old!

The Bike Buller MTB Festival brings all that is great about mountain biking to one spectacular location for a massive weekend of riding, single track, bikes, fresh air and partying at a place that is renowned for good times.

The Bike Buller Mountain Bike Festival is a two day stage race at magical Mt Buller in Victoria's high country that will see a range of phenomenal events for all levels of rider taking place in an incredible alpine landscape.

Bike Muster gets ready to roll in Myrtleford in Victoria! Recreational cycling event Bike Muster is set to make its Victorian debut in the picturesque north eastern township of Myrtleford and surrounds over the weekend the first weekend of October in 2012.

Held along the "Murray to Mountains" bike trials this is an event for all ages not to be missed!

Firmly established north of the border for the past four years and recently nominated as a finalist in the National heart Foundation Cycling Achievement awards Bike Buster is a family friendly weekend celebration.

Lunch will be provided each day at different activities as part of the daily rides and evening dinners will be provided by local caterers on Sunday night with a menu specifically chosen to showcase the delicious local produce as well as local wines.

Activities include:
- Daily rides
- Daily lunches
- Sunday Night dinner for participants
- Trivia night - Welcoming everyone on Friday
- Treasure hunt ride through the the town

A brilliant improvised comedy about WA's Pinjarra Massacre.

Created and performed by Nyoongar and Wadjella (whitefella) actors, Bindjareb Pinjarra demonstrates extraordinary risk taking through its fusion of history, outrageous comedy and physical theatre.

The catalyst for this theatrical history lesson is the mass killing of the Nyoongar people at Pinjarra on October 28, 1834 - an event recorded as the Battle of Pinjarra but mourned by local Nyoongar as a massacre. An account of this is played out in front of a dramatic backdrop painted by Nyoongar artist Tjyllyungoo (Lance Chadd).

Heartfelt and hearty all at once, Bindjareb Pinjarra has many wonderful moments ranging from a Nyoongar hunting party's poignant first encounter with a settler's fenced land to a present-day motorcycle cop's antics with a boomerang standing in as his handlebars.

Bluestone Blues Festival, an event by the Sleepy Hollow Blues Club in partnership with Taste. See. Explore - Visit Golden Plains. Held at Murgheboluc Public Reserve, 20 minutes from Geelong and only one hour from Melbourne, in the heart of Golden Plains.

On-site camping is available, free with every ticket, and all refreshments are available on the grounds so you can turn up and relax into the New Year with live blues music, great artists and a passionate crowd.

The Lions Club of Wodonga and the Albury/Wodonga Branch of The Ulysses Club would like to invite motorcycle riders to bring their bikes to show, and to admire others bikes at the annual Border Bike Fest incorporating Motor Bike Show and Shine on the Lincoln Causeway, Wodonga. The general public is also invite to this exciting day to admire all types of motor bikes.

This years event also includes a motor bike only swap meet run by the Classic & Enthusiasts MCC and the local Harley Davison dealer Phil's Garage providing a lucky draw prise of $1,000 voucher this years event should be bigger and better.

The event is run to raise money to support local charities.

This is the story of Thom and Alethea: two neighbours in an apartment block, trying desperately to keep their lives from falling apart.

But the wall that stands between them has decided they belong together.

Following sell-out seasons across Australia, this hilarious smash-hit production by The Escapists is a stunning celebration of theatricality, imagination and the joy of play.

Using chalk, sock puppets, an overhead projector and over two-dozen characters, Lucas Stibbard's captivating tour de force performance with live music by Neridah Waters will inspire and delight in a tall tale of whimsy and architectural enlightenment.

*Contains strong course language and adult themes

Bright Autumn Festival is a ten day celebration of the wonderful autumn colours and autumn produce of the valleys of Victoria's Alpine High Country. It takes place at the end of April, running through to early May. The highlight is the Gala Weekend with a market, music in the streets and a parade.

The program for the event is posted on the website above at the beginning of February each year. The previous year's program shows until this time and is a good indication of the types of activities and tours that occur.

For accommodation during the Autumn Festival please visit the website.

Heading into its third year, the Bright Rockabilly, Ink and Oil Festival is back for the third year. This annual event incorporates the kustom kulture that is rockabilly music, rat rods, tatts and clothing. Held over three days in beautiful Bright, RIO is packed full of entertainment for the whole family.

The Bright Spring Festival showcases what the Great Alpine Valleys is all about; great cafes and restaurants, wineries, accommodation to suit all budgets, adventure sports, walking tracks and bike trails, street and river markets, art exhibitions and the natural beauty of the Ovens, Buckland and Kiewa Valleys not found elsewhere in Victoria.

This annual festival features street and river markets, open gardens and workshops, food and wine events, decorative arts exhibition and sale, craft workshops, the famous Alpine Four Peaks Climb (for walkers and runners) and family fun days. The Grand Fireworks Spectacular and Concert is on the Saturday of the long weekend.

Supporting events:
- Mt Buffalo guided walks and Chalet tours
- Traditional 'Make it, Bake It, Grow' it market by the river
- Family fun days
- Banquet lunches
- Degustation dinners
- High country, wine and historical tours
- Open museum

Regular attractions and activities:
- Walk or cycle over 100kms of sealed bike and walking trails
- Dine in the 14 cafes and 12 restaurants
- Visit the Alpine Valleys wineries for wine tastings
- Sample the wonderful food of this gourmet region
- Experience the thrill of paragliding, abseiling, micro lighting, caving, rock climbing, white water rafting, canoeing, fly fishing, horse riding
- Take a four wheel drive guided adventure tour to explore the national forests and wild flowers
- Play golf on one of the three courses
- Visit the High Plains Huts

The Building & Home Improvement Expo is Australia's number one building and renovating Expo, supported by the Master Builders' Association of Australia.

Promising an inspiring array of fresh ideas and products, visitors will find all they need to get started on their new building or home improvement project. Over 300 companies are on-hand to give advice on the latest home improvement and building products and services giving home improvers and building professionals plenty of great ideas. See new product demonstrations and learn from industry experts at free seminars covering the latest thinking for building and home improvement.

Sustainable building solutions and products will be an Expo feature with sustainable, environmentally friendly, energy efficient, fire and termite resistant alternatives to traditional building methods. Visitors will discover hundreds of green ideas to improve the health of your home and environment - plus save you money.

Supported by the Master Builders Association of Australia, visitors will discover the Master Builders' Winning Homes. If you're looking for fresh inspiration and leading edge products from your next home show visit, the Master Builders' Building & Home Improvement Expo will not let you down.

Like the Building & Home Improvement Expo on Facebook to keep up-to-date with the latest event news, new products, special attractions and Facebook only special offers and ticket giveaways. Search Building Home Improvement Expo.

Butchered is raw, gritty and interactive. This lunch is not for the faint hearted!

Explore the darker side of the hearty winter roast with Executive Chef, Lyndon Betts, as he demonstrates the fine art of butchery in an interactive four course lunch.

Join Vue Grand Hotel in this feast, showcasing fresh and unique local produce including suckling pig and wild pigeon.

Sample some robust reds, dark ciders, and Bellarine brewed beers expertly chosen to compliment your dishes bite by delicious bite.

Part of the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 'Roast Collection'.

Buttonfest is an annual exhibition and sales day presented by the Victorian Button Collectors Club. Buttonfest celebrates all things buttons, providing a unique opportunity to see, buy, collect and marvel at buttons and button paraphernalia from the 19th Century to the present day. Buttonfest features market stalls, displays and raffles as well as an opportunity to make your own button necklace.

For those keen to begin or enhance a collection, many V.B.C.C. members will run market stalls, featuring highly collectable and covetable buttons for sale. You may need one special button for a vintage clothing repair - Buttonfest is the only place to find it. Your up-cycled craft project may require some button enhancement - here's the best place to look! Buttonfest is a rare opportunity to purchase buttons direct from enthusiastic and informed collectors.

A highlight of Buttonfest will be the antique button displays, featuring a dazzling array of buttons and related items made from all manner of materials including precious metals, mother-of-pearl, enamel, tortoiseshell, bakelite, glass, organic materials and early plastics. Button collectors will be on hand to answer general queries and help further your knowledge.

Come be intrigued and entranced.

Individuals and organisations are encouraged to build regular walking into their daily routine by registering for this year's Cancer Council Walk to Work Day: Friday, September 28.

Registration is free and for the first time organisations and individuals also have the opportunity to raise much-needed funds for the Cancer Council.

View the website for more information.

The Castlemaine State Festival is a ten day multi-arts celebration that draws on the distinctive culture of the central Victorian goldfields region - of old and new, of the artistic and the agricultural, and its dynamic community strengths. Held in autumn every two years, the festival showcases works from the region's finest artists and performing arts companies, alongside national and international artists.

Audiences in excess of 50,000 add to the vibrant spirit of the festival, getting involved in the productions and exhibitions across the visual arts, dance, circus, music, theatre, hot-rod culture, literature and a dedicated program for young people. Set amongst the unique central Victorian landscape, venues include historic churches and theatres, mines and quarries, public and private gardens.

Castlemaine is less than 90 minutes from Melbourne by car or even less by train.

An authentic farmers market with over 50 stallholders selling some of Victoria's finest produce. Held on the second Saturday of every month.

Featuring fresh seasonal vegetables, herbs and fruit, regional wines and boutique beers, cheeses and artisan breads, cakes and sweets, quality olive oil, deli items such as pesto's, pickles, chutneys and jams, free range eggs, fresh and preserved meats, honey, salad dressings, plants, seedlings, gourmet hot food and so much more.

Live music is played throughout the day. Kids Entertainment. $2 entry, kids free.

Celebrate Mooroolbark is an annual community festival held in March at Red Earth Park and Mooroolbark Community Centre. Involving local schools, businesses, community groups and individuals the festival provides free and low cost entertainment suitable for people of all ages.

Throughout the day there is a parade, a full stage program, roving performers, kids activities, workshops, rides, stalls of food, drink and local wares and more.

Celebrate Mooroolbark seeks to create a truly local festival that remains relevant to the people in the community of Mooroolbark and surrounding suburbs. It aims to bring together the full diversity of community members with a family friendly event provided by and for the community. In so doing, they celebrate and enhance the community spirit, connectedness and quality of life.

The festival opens with the Talent Quest at 7.30pm Friday 22 March and continues 9.30am to 4pm Saturday 23 March. Saturday morning begins with a spectacular street parade down Station Street and Brice Avenue and involves a growing number of schools, community groups and Mooroolbark residents. The day continues with local acts on the community stage, roving performers, market stalls, rides, kids activities and much, much more!

Visit the website for more information.