Monthly Events

A series of events for writers and readers throughout the month of May in the picturesque Dandenong Ranges.

• May 2 & 3: Two one-day workshops with prize-winning novelist Cate Kennedy at Pirianda Gardens - more info
  
• May 11: Join Ruccis circus and meet with Andy Griffiths at National Rhododendron Gardens - more info
  
• May 18: Enjoy a retro tea part with performance poet Emilie Zoey Baker at Burrinja Cafe - more info
  
• May 19: Lunch with international crime writer Michael Robotham at Nathania Springs - more info
  
• May 24: Drinks & Canapes with Vue de Monde chef Shannon Bennett at SkyHigh Mt Dandenong - more info
  
• May 25: Lunch with letters and numbers nerd David Astle at Country Place Retreat - more info
  
• May 26: Brunch with Kinglake 350 author Adrian Hyland at Seasons @ Cloudehill - more info
  
• May 29: Publishing know how with Sophie Cunningham at Wild Oak Restaurant - more info
  

Chill Out Sunday Lunches are back! Live Music with $20 roast specials or the a la carte menu available.

Time: 12pm-3.30pm

The Shrine of Remembrance celebrates the courage, tenacity and resourcefulness of indigenous Australians in the armed forces in this moving exhibition at the Memo Gallery, Healesville. The exhibition brings together stories of Indigenous men and women who serve their country during times of conflict.

Opening Thursday 9 May: 5.30pm-7.30pm

Entry fee and donations to raise funds for the local CFA. Sponsored by Stitch n Patch in Lilydale.

Cost: Adults $5, Concession $4, Under 12 FREE

Paintings by Joy Elizabeth Lea and Teresa Blazincic. Joy is an intuitive painter who works in oils, acrylic and mixed media. Much of her work is concerned with nature, with wild forests and the intricacies within natural habitats what constitute the web of life inhabiting our world.

Teresa's visual experiences together with her love of structure and colour mean that her work is constantly evolving and changing. This results in not merely being her interpretation ofthe subject at one point in time but a colletion of members over a period of time catpuring its energy and spirit.

Opening Saturday 11 May, 4pm-6pm

Open: Friday to Monday, 10am-5pm (or by appointment)

De Bortoli Mid-Year Sale. Huge savings on a range of wines.

Time: 10am-5pm

New Life: Geoffrey Dupree. Commission from sales donated to the Leukaemia Auxiliary of the Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne.

Opening: Friday 24 May, 6pm-7.45pm

Come and taste Mac Forbes' just released 2011 Hugh and the exciting EB (experimental batch) pinot noir and riesling. As part of the day they are also having a 2013 riesling blending masterclass where you get to do your own blends. There is also a great value mixed dozen wine sale.

Time: 11am-4pm

Need an excuse for a good night out? How about joining family, friends and work colleagues for a unique dining and dancing experience aboard Puffing Billy Railway!

A technically challenging 10km climb to the Lake Mountain Alpine Resort Village. Be sure to mark this tarmac car sprint on the calendar.

In the Yarra Valley, staying in luxury accommodation, the group get to meet the wine makers, dine at the wineries, sip reserve back vintage Chardonnays in the barrel room, join in a cooking class with well-loved chef Gary Cooper at Bella Vedere, visit the artisan producers of the region, jam makers, chocolate producers, all guided by Pauline who knows and loves the region.

Tours can be taken exclusively (with a minimum of 8) or people can book as an individual, couple of small group of friends.

For more information, check out Taste Cook Travel's website above.

Cost: $650 per person

After sunset Melbourne's skyline comes to life as millions of glittering diamonds carpet your view from horizon to horizon. This is your opportunity to view SkyHigh's beautiful Function Centre dressed for an event. You will also have the opportunity to speak to one of their experienced and passionate wedding consultants.

Time: 5pm-8pm

Cost: Please contact the events team for booking times and tickets