Through this nationally significant award, MPRG has proudly acquired 14 winning works, a further 91 through its precursor, the Spring Festival of Drawing and many more purchased for the Gallery by the Friends of MPRG—building one of Australia’s most significant collections of works on paper. With a $20,000 major acquisitive prize, NWOP continues to play a vital role in supporting artists and advancing the practice of contemporary Australian art on paper.

SATURDAY 5 SEPTEMBER TO SUNDAY 22 NOVEMBER 2026 | 11AM TO 4PM

Image: Jacky Cheng, …that awaits at the end of life, 2022, Kozo papers, joss papers, organic fibres, natural and synthetic paper fibres, National Works on Paper 2024 install, photo: Kinfolk Imagery

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In 1924, Merricks General Wine Store opened to serve a variety of needs of the local community. Built in a prime location on Hastings-Flinders Road, between Balnarring and Shoreham, it was a central point where locals could stock up on household items as well post mail, make phone calls at the phone booth, do banking and fill the petrol tank – a one-stop shop with friendly, familiar faces.

However the winds of change leave no establishment untouched, no matter how embedded they are within the community. The era of the general store came to an end as commercialism ramped up over the decades and it became clear the era of the general store had passed. When the large, modern Balnarring shopping centre opened, the general store closed and fell into disrepair, merely a decaying reminder of what was left behind as we moved into the new world of consumerism.

Fortunately, in 2004, three prominent families of the peninsula saw an opportunity to restore the general store to its past glory and re-establish it as a place for the community to come together, though giving it a new, somewhat different function inside its doors.

The Myer, Baillieu and Quealy families are prominent names in the local wine industry, and through their vineyards came together to breathe new life into the general store as a cellar door, modern bistro and café. Serving country style breakfasts, gourmet lunches and snacks like their famous scones and cakes, it is once more a popular meeting spot for locals and visitors alike. The menu draws from local produce and all food is made fresh daily.

Tapping into the general store vibe, they have also included a produce store, selling a range of locally harvested jams, relishes and sauces, as well as some of their own produce such as marmalade, pickled onions and pasta sauce.

The renewal project is a tribute to the buildings 80-year history, and picked up the Architectural Excellence Award for Best Building Conservation (Commercial) at the 2005 South East Awards. The well preserved building offers a glimpse into the past as a typical example of the rural general stores that were once such a central hub of community life. The charming rustic building, with gable bays and verandah, and a tree-shaded deck with outdoor fireplace, provides the kind of setting that somehow seems to infuse itself with the tastes on offer.

The cellar door celebrates the local region through its food and wine, with the entire range of wines from the Elgee Park, Baillieu and Quealy vineyards available for tasting and sale, as well as local beers and ciders.

In keeping with the theme of bringing people together, Merricks General Wine Store now also hosts weddings and other private functions, and a variety of their own monthly events such as lunches with artists and evenings with jazz and blues music.

It is only fitting that Merricks General Wine Store is once again a highly popular establishment among the local community, and draws visitors from near and far. The old building with its new purpose offers a celebration of good food and wine, good company and feel-good nostalgia. What more could you ask for?

For further information, visit their website

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In celebration of the 2025 theme of NAIDOC Week – The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy, Everywhen Art is presenting a solo exhibition by the Mornington Island-based artist Amanda Jane Gabori. Amanda Gabori was born in 1966 in the township of Gununa on Mornington Island. She is the youngest daughter of the famous painter, the late Sally Gabori whose works are currently featuring in a solo exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria.

Amanda says that she started painting with her mother about 15 years ago, as she saw how much pleasure painting brought her mother and how her mother had loved that, through her paintings she could relate the stories and landscape of her sea country and its people around the world. Amanda says she is honoured and proud to continue her mother’s legacy.

Since 2010, Amanda has exhibited in leading private galleries around Australia, as well as public galleries including Cairns Art Gallery, Queensland Gallery of Modern Art and in the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair.

Her main painting themes are those her mother and father’s country of Bentick Island in the Gulf of Carpentaria. In her work she depicts its striking rock formations, tidal waterholes, its sweeping lands where the sky meets the sea, and the scales that cover the body of the small river cod, Dibirdibi which is her language name and her totem given to her by her father.

Everywhen Art’s curators Susan McCulloch OAM and Emily McCulloch Childs will present a free talk: Strength, Vision & Legacy; the art of Amanda Jane Gabori on Saturday July 12 at 2.30 pm.

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Rather than depicting the iconography of dreaming stories Ampilatwatja painters reinforce their strong connection to Country in landscape form and with a strong focus on the plants used for bush medicine. As the artists note, their paintings depict the country ‘on which the dreaming stories sit’.

However, these intricate paintings are far from superficial view of lands. Rather they contain the information held sacred to Alyawarr, but hidden from public view, underneath the surface.

Of special importance is the recording of flowers, leaves and seeds used by Alywarr for bush medicine. Representing this subject fulfills several purposes. Trips to collect plants for bush medicine enable knowledge of the habitat and usage of plants; documenting the plants in art enables their recording for posterity and bush medicine itself promotes well-being.

Exhibiting artists; Ada Pula Beasley, Beverley Pula Luck, Daisy Kemarre Turner, Elizabeth Ngwarreye Bonney, Kathleen Namina Rambler, Kelvin Kemarre Ladd, Maisie Petyarre Bundey, Michelle Pula Holmes, Nancy Pitjara Frank, Sevaria Kemarre Bonney.

OPENING EVENT SATURDAY 7 JUNE from 2.30pm.

Curators Floor Talk: Bush medicine & plants – the unique art of Artists of Ampilatwatja.

The post Anaty Anaty Apmer (Heart Land) at Everywhen Art appeared first on Love the Peninsula.

Matt Hill’s creations are more than sculptures – they are statements. From life-sized animals that capture movement and spirit to intricate stratified spheres that come alive at night, each piece is a testament to his talent and vision. His work often pushes the boundaries of design, with some sculptures requiring up to 300 hours to craft, embodying dedication, and a commitment to excellence.

For those that don’t know, Corten steel, also known as weathering steel, is a type of steel alloy that is designed to form a stable rust-like appearance after exposure to the elements. It was developed to eliminate the need for painting and create a protective layer of corrosion that shields the underlying metal. The name “Corten” comes from two of its key properties: corrosion resistance and tensile strength.

Why Matt’s Work is Unique

Matt Hill’s artistry is thought-provoking and deeply resonant. His works are not just steel and shapes; they are emotions forged into metal, connecting people to nature, light, and each other. As an internationally celebrated artist, his sculptures grace landscapes across Australia, Japan, the USA, and Europe, bringing his unique vision to the world.

One of Matt Hill’s passions is working with animals. From majestic elephants, giraffes, and rhinos to lifelike kangaroos and bears, his steel creations embody the beauty and spirit of the creatures that roam our planet. His work goes beyond representation, often evoking a sense of connection to the natural world.

Matt Hill’s memorial dog sculptures are a perfect example of this emotional connection. Inspired by the love we share with our pets; these pieces allow people to honour their best friends and keep their memory alive in a tangible and meaningful way.

His geometric creations, such as illuminated spheres and striking cubes, blend nature and geometry to create art that transforms spaces. These pieces are not only stunning but also functional, enhancing gardens with their beauty and thoughtful lighting. His unique garden lighting designs, featuring animals, trees, and abstract forms, create an enchanting outdoor experience that blends art with ambiance.

For those seeking warmth and community, Matt Hill’s custom fire arcs are a perfect addition to any backyard. These sculptural fire pits bring people together, inviting storytelling and connection around the flames—a timeless tradition reimagined through Matt’s artistry. 

An Award-Winning Legacy

Since his first sculpture won Best Small Sculpture at Melbourne’s Albert Park Art Exhibition in 2013, Matt has continued to redefine the boundaries of steel art. His accolades include back-to-back awards at the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show, where his sculptures won the People’s Choice Award and first prize in consecutive years.

His work is celebrated in luxury hotels, public spaces, and private collections worldwide, and has been featured in prominent publications such as Signature Luxury Travel & Style and The Sydney Morning Herald.

The Sorrento Outdoor Gallery

Closer to home, the Sorrento Outdoor Gallery offers a chance to experience Matt Hill’s creations in an immersive setting. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Sorrento, the gallery features his most captivating steel sculptures. Visitors can explore life-sized animals, illuminated spheres, and other iconic pieces, all designed to spark wonder and inspiration.

A Master of the Impossible 

Driven by the challenge of making the impossible possible, Matt Hill thrives on creating one-of-a-kind commissions. Whether designing a sculpture to honour a beloved pet, crafting a striking centrepiece for a garden, or building a large-scale installation, Matt Hill’s work reflects his boundless creativity and passion for his craft.

Matt Hill Projects is more than a collection of sculptures—it’s an invitation to experience the extraordinary. Every piece tells a story, and every commission is a collaboration, bringing together the artist’s skill and the client’s vision. Matt Hill’s work is a celebration of nature, light, and connection, and it continues to inspire audiences around the world.

If you happen to be in Sorrento over these holidays (and beyond) drop into his outdoor gallery. It’s free and amazing at how many objects of art he’s managed to integrate within the space.

Matt Hill Projects, Sorrento

Address: 152 Ocean Beach Road, Sorrento

Open Daily from 8:30am to 6:30pm

For more information visit www.matthillprojects.com/sorrento.pdf

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New paintings by Debra Nakamarra and Katherine Nakamarra featuring the rockhole and cave site of Tjintjintjin – an important site in the journeys of the ancestral creation figure, Kutungka Napanangka.

This impressive body of work marks the first exhibition on the Mornington Peninsula by the illustrious Papunya Tula Artists Pty Ltd. Established by the artists of the community of Papunya in 1972, Papunya Tula has been of foundational significance in the development of modern Australian art.

Highly regarded painters, Debra Nakamarra and Katherine Nakamarra have been significant members of Papunya Tula Artists for many years. In vibrant colour and distinct iconography, their work relates the ancient cave site of Tjintjintjin – made famous by their mother Walangkura Napanangka. This body of glowing new works is the sisters’ first joint exhibition presented by Papunya Tula Artists.

OPENING EVENT WITH THE ARTISTS, SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2pm.

To be opened by John Kean, PhD – writer, curator and former Papunya Tula art advisor. John will introduce Debra and Katherine and will also be signing copies of his book – Dot Circle and Frame: The Making of Papunya Tula Art. Book presentation/signing In partnership with Antipodes Bookshop.

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Owned by the Russo family, the concept for the property evolved from Claire Russo, who at the age of 31 was diagnosed with thyroid cancer.  With the support of her husband, two young children and extended family, Claire harnessed her illness and won the battle, and turned her victory into Butterfly Fitness and subsequently Butterfly Retreats  – the thyroid is shaped like a butterfly and hence the name.   Set in the centre of Red Hill, the Butterfly Retreats property abounds with quinces, several varieties of apples, olives, macadamias, pomegranates, figs, a vegetable plot with zucchinis, tomatoes, corn, kale and more, large areas of lawn, a fairy garden, oranges and lemons in the 85 year old citrus grove and even ancient Shakespearian fruit tree called a medlar.

Butterfly Retreats offers an accommodation and getaway experience for large groups, comfortably sleeping nine people with the facility to accommodate any number of people as long as they can fit (air mattresses are supplied at an additional rate for the length of the stay).  The large, comfortable and stylishly decorated home has been designed with family and friends in mind.  And while there are lots of activities to enjoy within easy reach of the property (restaurants, wineries, cafes, bushwalks and the ocean), the Russo family have made sure you can easily occupy adults and children for days without ever having to leave.  Bookshelves are filled with dvds, board games and novels, and there’s an entertainment area and a cosy fireplace.

Outdoor activities are very well catered for, with an outdoor games room that has a table tennis table, basket ball shoot out, pool table, darts and more,  and an outdoor games cupboard comes complete with bocce, badminton and boules  ready to set up on the vast lawn . Tennis racquets are also supplied for use at the nearby tennis club to which guests have access.  There’s an outdoor bar, plus cushions, deck chairs and a picnic set and blankets, so long sunny days are all set.  The kids will be outside playing all day, or be hanging out in the games room, so you might not see them for hours.  (Walkie Talkies are on hand so you can keep in touch).  And for the icing on the cake?  A complimentary Johnny Ripe apple pie awaits your arrival.

The Russo family has big plans for Butterfly Retreats.  Very much focused on the local community, they will soon be opening Butterfly Gallery and Studios where they will hold exhibitions for local artists as well as collaborative events.  Claire will also be holding fitness retreats and classes under her Butterfly Fitness brand, which will be a very welcome addition to the surrounding community and provide a wonderful experience for visitors, travellers and tourists. Guests at the property are welcome to use the on-site facilities, with a fully equipped personal training studio that offers a range of training options including spin bikes, a rower, boxing, kettlebells, barbells and weights.  Training sessions and bootcamps can be arranged in advance with Claire Russo who is a qualified personal trainer, or you can make a weekend of it by booking in to a complete Fitness Retreat.

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Wild man, 2005, is informed by Mueck’s German heritage, his knowledge of European medieval mythology, and the stories of the Brothers Grimm. The concept for Wild man was fully realized after Mueck saw Appennino, 1579, by Flemish sculptor Giambologna, a colossal, kneeling figure 11 metres high, located in the gardens of the Medici palace Villa Pratolino in Tuscany, Italy.

Known as the ‘woodwose’ in Celtic lore, the wild man is a figure of gigantic proportions typically depicted with a wooden club and full body hair. Antithetic to the civilised and known world, he was a symbol of the dark and mysterious challenges of the wilderness.

Image: Ron Mueck, Wild man, 2005, fibreglass resin, silicone, nylon, synthetic thread, plastic, metal, wood, 285 x 162 x 108 cm. Purchased through the Elisabeth Murdoch Sculpture Fund and The Balnaves Foundation, 2007. Photo Mark Ashkanasy.

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Drive. Take Peninsula link from Frankston until you reach the Dromana/Arthurs Seat exit (C789) then climb the famous route to the top of Arthurs Seat. This should take about 30 minutes from Frankston. Your first stop will be Arthurs Seat. The view from the top most days is breathtaking and captures Port Phillip Bay and through to the Moorooduc Plains. From here follow Arthurs Seat Road, then turn right into Main Creek Road. Follow this through until you meander to the end of Purves Road.

Do. Stop at Artists Proof, Johnny Ripe and Main Ridge Dairy for some incredible art, food and farmgate experiences. These places are located on Main Creek Road and are within a stones throw of each other. They all have variable operating hours so please check beforehand. Along Main Creek Road you will be driving though beautiful country roads, market gardens, wineries, beautiful homes, properties and farm-gates – road conditions vary but you will mainly encounter sealed single lane roads in each direction.

Drive. As you come to the end of Main Creek Road, turn left into Purves Road and continue until you get to the intersection of Browns Road and Baldrys Road where you will veer left into Baldrys Road and follow this all the way to Mornington-Flinders Road where you will turn right and continue for approximately 250m. As soon as you see Meakins Road, turn right and follow this through until you reach Boneo Road (C777) where you will turn right and head to Flinders.  All up, this route should take approx. 40 minutes – you will mainly encounter unsealed country roads so please take care and take in the incredible scenery.

Do. Flinders is a great stop to stretch your legs, grab a coffee or sit down for a main meal and there are many good options including the Flinders Hotel and Pony Express to name only a couple. If your after some organic fare go to Flinders Sourdough or if your after snacks and a coffee then head to the Flinders General Store.

Drive. From Flinders head north east on Frankston-Flinders Road (C777) and by the time you reach Shoreham turn left onto Red Hill Road. Continue on this road until you reach Arthurs Seat Road where you will turn left. Follow this until you reach Arthurs Seat – you have come full circle. From here head back on to the link – your homebound. All up this route would take no more than 60 minutes but there are plenty of interesting places to see and do – weight up the time of day, season and your mood and go from there.

Do. If you’re looking for some inspiration in the garden then a stop at Nobbies View Plant Farm in Shoreham is a must. In Red Hill South there’s coffee time at The Cellar & Pantry (a local institution) Darling Park Winery (casual European fare), Polperro (sophisticated surrounds and menu) – two top notch experiences involving wine and food on the Peninsula.

Make sure you enjoy the ride but above all drive safely.

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We are always on the lookout for the remarkable stories that define our vibrant region. Today, we’re thrilled to introduce you to a hidden gem right in the heart of Mornington – Artisans Alley, a place where local Mornington Peninsula creativity takes centre stage.

A Showcase of Local Talent

Artisans Alley is not your typical retail store; it’s a haven for local makers, designers, and artists. With around 16 full-time displays and an ever-changing cast of four to five pop-up artisans, the array of creativity on display is a testament to the talent that thrives in our community.

Artwork That Inspires is the point of pride at Artisans Alley. The art, of course is what sets them apart from other gift shops. They believe that art should be accessible to everyone. That’s why at Artisan’s Alley you can buy original pieces by local artists that won’t break the bank – hundreds, not thousands of dollars. Forget the steep prices of galleries or the standard prints you find in other gift shops; here, they blend quality with affordability.

On display and to name just a few you can find:

• Homewares: Fenix Candle Co, where scented candles find new life in repurposed bottles.
• Jewelry: Explore the exquisite sea glass necklaces and bracelets by Mornington Sea Glass and adorn yourself with the stunning rings and earrings from Tyet Designs by Georgia Simmons.
• Artwork: Dive into the world of affordable art with Colour Meadow by Jill McFarlane’s prints on wood, fabric, and box shelves. Discover art by Peter Porteous and witness the world through Stephen Laurance Photography.
• Skin Care: Experience the essence of organic skincare with Visage Avenir and elevate your senses with handmade soaps and diffusers from Pohchi Skin Care by Hayley McDonald.
• Clothing: Louise the Fox offers a fashionable range of bibs, face masks, and rompers.

Supporting Local, Inspiring Globally

Their artisans find inspiration in the picturesque landscapes of the Mornington Peninsula and beyond. They source materials sustainably, fostering a positive impact on the local community and the environment.

Artisans Alley is more than just a store; it’s a vibrant community that values creativity, authenticity, and human connection. Artisans Alley in the heart of Mornington’s shopping strip, is a store where you can immerse yourself in a world of local creativity. Each piece tells a story, and every story weaves the tapestry of our community.

From our perspective, Artisans Alley is a one stop shop where the best of local creativity shines brightest. Go check it out, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

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