A MOUNT Macedon country retreat will feature in a pilot episode of a new TV series.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Filming of the pilot wrapped up at Braeside Mt Macedon Country Retreat this week and is expected to air in 2015.
The series, from the producers of The Living Room, Bondi Vet and Coxys Big Break, follows the exploits of two Melbourne stylists as they travel the world transforming spaces.
The program, the name of which has not yet been revealed, stars Melbourne stylists Claire Cau-Cecile and Dianne Sweeney.
“We were looking for a very special location that would not only allow us to create a dramatic turnaround but was also a beautiful Australian country setting” Ms Cau-Cecile said.
“After scouting many locations we found Braeside Mt Macedon Country Retreat.
"Set in 27 acres of hillside bushland and English gardens, the Homestead at Braeside was perfect. To find such a beautiful country location only 55 minutes from Melbourne was a real coup and we hope to return in a future episode to makeover one of the three guest cottages.''
Braeside Mt Macedon owner Andrew Towner said it was an honour to be chosen for the pilot.
“Given the time constraints, the pressure was on to create a space that would capture the style of Braeside Mt Macedon and do the region proud,'' he said.
"The team pulled out all stops to make it happen and I think the result is fantastic.''
A strong team of Macedon Ranges businesses was recruited to ensure the project was a success. Scenes were shot at Steve Graham’s auction rooms in Woodend.
“Claire and Dianne were very professional with an eye for quality” Mitch Graham, of Steve Graham Auctioneers, said.
“They zeroed in on two beautiful Chesterfields and they now look right at home up at Braeside Mt Macedon.”
Under the direction of master painter Bernie Falvey, the Braeside Team of Karen Plant, Wendy and Elenor Forrest and Andrew Towner worked around the clock to paint out the rooms and prepare the property.
Arnie Way of Flowers in a Vase in Woodend supplied flowers while Glenn Moore and his team from New Gisborne Electricals installed vintage lamps and lighting fittings in record time.
Stephen Ryan of Dicksonia Rare Plant Nursery, botanical artist Craig Lidgerwood, woodworker Dale Leech from The Gallery at Mt Macedon and Mark Bartley from Macedon Ranges Signs were also involved.
The filming finished with a cocktail reception showcasing local food and wine to reveal the new spaces.
The Village Larder in Woodend, Mt Macedon Kitchen, Piper Street Food Company along with Gisborne Peak, Hanging Rock and Granite Hills wineries were all represented.
Guests were asked on camera what they thought of the makeover and agreed the transformation was amazing and the look was hailed the new “Braeside Mt Macedon style”.
“This really is a team effort and I hope we’ve done the region proud,'' Mr Towner said.
Braeside Mt Macedon will hold an open house between 11am and 4pm on August 17. Visitors can view the rooms in The Homestead used in the show and talk with the stylists. The gardens and guest cottages will also be open to visitors.
A gold coin donation will go to the Mt Macedon CFA.