What driving a sports car has taught me

After driving a series of very sensible cars, columnist Jane Speechley shares what she’s learned since stepping behind the wheel of the spirited and nimble Toyota 86.

The car you choose to drive says a lot about you, and arguably, a sports car makes a stronger statement than most. With impressive growth in the sports car segment (September VFACTS figures show sales are up 36% to 2,725 vehicles), it’s a statement that’s being made by a growing number of drivers.

In my last column, I wrote about my history with cars and how I came to purchase my current vehicle, a Toyota 86. With just over three years now behind the wheel of my first sports car, there’s a lot I’ve learned.

Read more at https://practicalmotoring.com.au/voices/driving-sports-car-taught/

The long and winding road to my Toyota 86

Image courtesy of Jay Bellchambers

Our new columnist, Jane Speechley, tells us about her history with cars and why she bought a sports car.

There are two early experiences that have particularly shaped my attitude towards cars.

To begin with, there was my first car, which is now (sentimentally) referred to as the Hyundai Deathtrap. A well-priced Excel hatchback from a seemingly well-established dealership, I thought I was making a sensible choice.

A little young and naïve, I didn’t notice the paint colour inside the engine bay was different to the exterior. Or that the white smoke coming from the exhaust wasn’t just due to the cold weather.

Yes, yes, I know – did I mention I was young and naïve?

Read more at https://practicalmotoring.com.au/voices/long-winding-road-toyota-86/

What really drives Canberra’s political leaders ...

One of the reasons I like writing about cars is because I think your choice of vehicle (or choice to drive no car at all) can say a lot about you: the life you lead, what interests you, and what’s important to you.

That’s why I thought it would be fitting, in my first column for The Riot ACT, to check out the cars that are driven by some of our current and aspiring political leaders.

With less than a week to go until the election, we’re hearing a lot about doorknocking and roadside signage – but when they’re not hitting the pavement, how do our pollies get around?

Read more at https://the-riotact.com/what-really-drives-canberras-political-leaders/186334

The Farmhouse at Pialligo Estate, Pialligo, Canberra

Pialligo Estate is located less than 15 minutes’ drive from the city centre, but it feels very much like you’re visiting a secluded country estate. 

The long-standing property and winery were revitalised in 2015 with the addition of the (now hatted) Farmhouse restaurant, under the guidance of chef Brendan Walsh.

Visiting the restaurant is a journey in itself. After driving down a country-style lane that’s dotted with garden centres and markets stalls, the Farmhouse Restaurant opens up at the end of the road. The restaurant is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, which we later find out include a vegetable market garden and ornamental fruit trees as well as the expected vineyard. The building itself features an imposing entrance with heavy wooden doors that open to reveal several large rustic fireplaces, stone floors and wooden beams in the ceiling.

Read more at http://theyumlist.net/en/2016/08/the-farmhouse-at-pialligo-estate-pialligo-canberra.html 

Local Press Cafe, Kingston Foreshore, Canberra, Australia

Sometimes, it seems as though it might be impossible for a restaurant or café to achieve the big three: great location, great food and drinks, and great service. 

Usually, one or the other is lacking. However, Local Press Cafe really does seem to have them all.

Local Press Café can be found on the Kingston Foreshore area of Canberra, a much anticipated and growing urban waterside community that’s home to some of the city’s most exciting new bars and restaurants. The price for such a prime location is plenty of competition, but Local Press has been able to carve out a niche for itself with its focus on clean, healthy, wholesome food.

Read more at http://theyumlist.net/en/2016/08/local-press-cafe-kingston-foreshore-canberra-australia.html 

Truffle Hunt at Blue Frog Truffle Farm, Canberra

While many of us have enjoyed the intoxicating aroma and earthy taste of black truffles, it was a rare treat to be able to visit the source and join in a truffle hunt at Blue Frog Truffles in Canberra, Australia.

The Canberra Region Truffle Festival is taking place during our visit (it’s on each year from June to August) so it’s the ideal time to join one of the hunts. 

Blue Frog Truffles is located in Sutton, NSW, about 20 minutes by car from the Canberra city centre. It’s a real insight into Australia’s ‘country capital’ – with just this short drive, we’re into real agricultural land with little indication that we’re so close to a major city.

Read more at http://theyumlist.net/en/2016/08/truffle-hunt-at-blue-frog-truffle-farm-canberra.html 

Yabby Jaffles, Monster Kitchen & Bar, Hotel Hotel, Canberra

Set amongst the incredible architecture of Hotel Hotel, it would be easy for Monster Kitchen and Bar to be overwhelmed by its surroundings. 

Instead, the venue is carving out a solid reputation for hearty and sophisticated food, while attracting a lot of attention for one simple little dish in particular.

Before we explain Monster’s new signature dish, you have to understand an Australian icon known as the ‘jaffle’. It’s made by placing your desired filling – usually cooked meat and vegetables – between two slices of bread, then toasting the sandwich using a special press (called a jaffle iron) that seals the edges together, ensuring a crispy toasted outside and a pocket of warmed filling inside.

Read more at http://theyumlist.net/en/2016/08/yabby-jaffles-monster-kitchen-bar-hotel-hotel-canberra.html