By KATH GANNAWAY
WHEN Anne-Marie Manders started Warratina Lavender Farm in Wandin Yallock 22 years ago it was an enjoyable hobby.
It’s still enjoyable, but it’s anything but a hobby now.
The farm has grown into a hallmark Yarra Valley tourist attraction expanding into the production of hand-made lavender products, initially in the laundry and expanding into a drying shed, gorgeous tea rooms and a gift shop – all with a lavender flavour … and aroma.
Anne-Marie was given special recognition in October when the Yarra Valley Regional Tourism Association awarded her the inaugural Margaret Baker Annual Shield.
The award, in fact, gave recognition not only to Anne-Marie, but to Margaret who is also something of a ‘tourism legend’ in the valley having served with the Tourist Information Centre in Healesville for 19 years – first as a volunteer, then as a co-ordinator.
The shield recognises outstanding promotion of, and dedication to, regional tourism.
Margaret said she chose Anne-Marie for the inaugural award because of her great passion and innovation in her own businesses and for promoting the region.
Warratina attracts thousands of visitors each year, including many international visitors and the farm also hosts numerous local charity events including open gardens and art and quilt shows.
Anne-Marie said she started initially going to markets and garden shows, including the International Flower and Garden Show in Melbourne which she did for 14 years winning seven Bronze Medals for the Warratina landscape designs.
Margaret said everywhere Anne-Marie went, to shows and exhibitions locally, throughout Victoria and interstate, she took along boxes of brochures to promote the region.
“It’s that enthusiasm and not only thinking of your own business but spreading the word about where you live that makes her such a great ambassador for us all,” she said.
Over summer, lavender harvest time, Warratina offers tours of the drying shed on weekends, and the tea rooms and gift shop always offer a special taste of lavender.
You’ll find Warratina Lavender Farm at 105 Quayle Road in Wandin Yallock. Phone 5964 4650.
