This weekend I went "Country".

My good friends Janelle and Callum have opened an amazing cafe, in the town of Avenel in the shire of Strathbogie, Victoria.

I've watched from afar, over the last two years, as they've slowly transformed the former town bank into a truly amazing oasis in the heart of this sleepy village.

Their hard work has certainly paid off and it is now a charming wood fired pizza restaurant with an absolutely stunning garden complete with a kitchen garden, a huge open outdoor seating area and a lake!

I spent an afternoon with them and enjoyed every minute. (Not hard when the pizzas are to die for, the platters are superb and the service, unfaltering.)

I'm going back soon, for a longer stay!

Below are a few shots that I took during the afternoon.

For me, winter is a time for entertaining indoors, with friends and family enjoying my home.

Hosting a winter dinner party is one of my favourite ways to do this. Traditional winter food is good for the soul and will ward of the cold. In my home a winter menu is casual and loosely structured; it might start with a hearty soup and an oven-roasted bruschetta. Pasta, a roast or slow cooked lamb might follow with red wine and cheese (a favourite winter accompaniment) and of course, a sensational home made pudding or some biscotti for a lighter ending.

When it comes to styling a room for a winter occasion I try to evoke a sense of history and tradition. I set my table with old family crockery and original glassware. I use vintage cutlery and historic serving platters. I might add stacks of antique books and other traditional accessories for authenticity. I like to create an atmosphere filled with elegance and time-honoured style.

A collection of luxurious throw rugs and cushions, an open log fire, and sparkling candlelight (another favourite) will always complete the scene.