gallery and cafe

PEOPLE

Strong, capable and creative are good descriptions for many of the people I know in the Swan Valley, where I live and work. This is a special part of the Perth metropolitan area. There is a close connection to the land. People here really have been able to use their strengths and skills to create wonderful things.

There is a wonderful variety of delicious food, great wine and stunning art. I feel privileged to be part of this diverse, creative and enthusiastic environment. Many of my 'people prints' are a reflection of the Swan Valley community. It is a wonderful place where my children have grown and been enriched by the place they call home.




It's great to live in an area located between the Darling Ranges and the Swan Coastal plain with the Swan River impacting the beauty of the landscape. This area was one of the initial areas to be settled in Western Australia. There are a number of historic sites and old buildings. Wine production began in 1829. Some of the original family owned and operated wineries continue to produce great wines that tempt the tasters and buyers alike. Chardonnay, Shiraz, Chenin Blanc and Verdelho are produced as well as fortified wines such as muscats, ports and tokays.

Beautiful food, produced at famous restaurants like Lamonts are a great place for lunch or dinner. Strawberries, grapes, vegetable, honey and preserves can be bought at roadside stalls. There are tearooms, cafes and historic hotels for refreshing body and spirit during a day out in the Swan Valley.

Many artists and craftspeople live and work in the valley and their work is available from local galleries and studios.

Accommodation can be luxurious and five-star, to chalets, caravans or bed and breakfast. There's a variety to suit everyone.

Words by Jan Phillips with Jude Taylor

25 November to 1 December 2003