Lavandula – The Swiss-Italian Story Continues

Robyn Rogers

I think we all panicked a little bit when Lavandula went on the market knowing that it had been such a long-standing tourist attraction in the region that offered great community support as well as bringing many tourists to the region.  Carol White had done such a great job over the years developing and maintaining this historical site and we all wondered “what does the future hold for Lavandula?”

We now know that ‘continua la storia svizzera italiana’ – the Swiss Italian story continues – but I am sure everyone would like to understand more about exactly what that means.  Meeting with Bess and Paxton Cash (the new owners) this week, it was both revealing and comforting to learn about the plans for Lavandula now and into the future.

Bess and Paxton Cash with their son Digby. (Photo supplied.)

‘The plan is to re-open Lavandula on September 20^th with a ‘soft’ opening, with a view to a full opening the following long weekend” said Bess.

I was keen to see if it looked the same as I remembered it or if there would be many changes to take in.  Both Bess and Paxton are very keen to highlight and maintain the legacy that Carol handed over, but also to add their own touch with a few enhancements, such as converting the original barn (which was the entry and shop) into a wine bar to be called Tinetti’s.  The shop is not gone entirely – it will be incorporated into the same building but the emphasis for this component will be on providing a cosy, wine bar serving local wine and nibbles.

Future plans also include catering for weddings, big birthdays and events – both previously established and new ones.  There are also local food and wine events planned for which the new wine bar will be perfect.

As for the rest of the property, it’s being freshened up with new coats of paint, a few running repairs and general face-lift that includes the revamp of the restaurant/café which will become a trattoria known as Maria’s.  Caliopi Buck (ex Frank & Connies and Harry’s) has been appointed as the Executive Chef and she will have a team of 3 local chefs working the kitchen.  Caliopi is excited to be part of the new Lavandula and is planning a menu that will reflect the Italian heritage. She called it ‘Italianish’.  The emphasis will be on warm, rich food using fresh local produce.  There’s no doubt that Caliopi has a head start with her experience and knowledge of the area and the local suppliers that she already has strong relationships with.

It’s interesting to note that despite Bess and Paxton’s most recent home being Melbourne, they both have country connections.  Paxton’s history is dairy farming in Gippsland, while Bess spent many of her holidays at her grandmother’s farm, Tog’s, in Yandoit, so she has that Swiss Italian experience and knowledge behind her.  It’s a nice twist in the ongoing tale that is Lavandula.

I did have a couple of burning questions for Bess and Paxton that I knew many locals would be interested to know.  Firstly, what about the lavender scones?  Lavandula has always been famous for the scones and the good news is they will continue to be served as Carol has generously shared the secret recipe.  Secondly, will Lavandaze still continue as part of Chillout?  It’s always been one of the most popular events and it’s a big “Yes” on that question!  In fact, the plan is to make it bigger and better for next year’s Chillout.

Bess and Paxton are very keen to continue to have, and build, on the relationships that Lavandula has with community events such as Chillout and the Swiss Italian Festa.  They’ve been speaking to many local neighbours and community groups about the future of Lavandula and how they can continue to be a thriving part of the community.  Bess said, “We know we’ve got big shoes to fill to continue to create Carol’s great sense of hospitality and knowing how special Lavandula is to so many people.  We want to create that same sense of comfort when they visit us by continuing with what’s already here and in some areas make it even better without over developing it.”

I certainly got a feeling of the family vibe from Bess and Paxton with his Mum and sister busily helping them to get set up.  It was obvious that they already love Lavandula and it’s heritage and have a high level of excitement about the re-opening – in fact they can’t wait to get started.

Just a reminder that there will be a soft opening on the 20^th September, with a fully functioning venue operating from the following long weekend.  Let’s make sure we all get and along support Bess and Paxton in their new venture to make sure we keep the heritage that is Lavandula alive and well.

Robyn Rogers is a Hepburn resident and a member of The Wombat Post Editorial committee.