My Way returns to Channel 9 this Sunday featuring Mother-daughter duo Janice Dawson and Lauren Myors who host heritage tours for people who want to step back in time in St Aubins Village, a heritage-listed property offering guests a slice of life in historical Rockhampton.
What is the history of the property?
The grounds of St Aubins Village dates back to the 1870’s, where it is believed to have been designed and built by John Rodekirchen, with the house adjoining what remains of the clay pit and brick-making complex which he operated.
In the 1970s, after a rich history with creating brick and foundations that assisted in the building of the local town, St Aubins was converted into a nursery and teahouse, where Rockhampton locals gathered to meet and enjoy the grounds, before closing its gates in the early 2000s.
In 2007, St Aubins was purchased by Bill and Noelene Gilham who were set on restoring and repairing the beautiful building that dated back to the 1800’s, with plans to turn it into a suitable wedding or function venue. Sadly, Noelene passed away and never got to see her dream become a reality. 10 years later, we purchased the property and finished the restorations. We then opened the venue, kicking off with Lauren’s wedding as our debut on the property.
In June 2021, we opened the Teahouse and Boutique Gift Shop where we operate for Breakfast, Lunch, Morning/Afternoon tea and coffee.
How long did it take to restore the property?
Purchasing in 2017, we have worked tirelessly to get it to what it is today and still working hard on maintaining the property and new developments for the future.
Why did you create this venue to share?
As St Aubin’s was a huge part of Rockhampton’s early development, we wanted to keep its history going and preserve it. St Aubins was a thriving nursery, teahouse & small cottage shop back in the 1970s until the early 2000’s but it had been closed for over 10 years prior to us purchasing it. We wanted to be able to open it to the public again, to celebrate weddings and bring the whole village back to life, which we believe we have achieved.
What has been your favourite event on the property?
Of course, weddings are always a beautiful celebration and special milestone in a couple’s life so weddings are always our favourite event, but we also hold a Melbourne Cup luncheon each year, as well as Garden Teas and Fundraisers for different organisations which we love to be a part of.
What is your favourite part about operating St Aubin’s as a family?
We love being able to spend our days together. We are always brainstorming new ideas and work extremely well together as a family and as business partners. The grandchildren also love helping out and learning about gardening and looking after the chooks and grounds.
‘MY WAY’ RETURNS TO HONOUR MORE EXTRAORDINARY QUEENSLANDERS
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5, AT 5.30PM ON CHANNEL 9 & 9NOW
Tune in for another groundbreaking season of My Way, the 9Network’s unique tribute to the passion, ingenuity and inspiration of extraordinary Queenslanders, when it returns this Sunday at 5.30pm on Channel 9 and 9Now.
My Way continues to tell the stories of Queenslanders far and wide who are doing great things by making up their own rules in business and life, living out their dreams, and doing everything their way.
Narrator Tim Blackwell says: “From picturesque fishing villages up north, daring free divers with a passion for mental health, to clever teenagers making colourful earrings from recycled materials and a riveting range of tourism operators, My Way is hitting our screens again to showcase the people behind the amazing ideas and adventures you can find all over the Sunshine State.
“I’m thrilled to be a part of My Way. It is a testament to the vision and drive of Queenslanders, proudly produced by Queenslanders.”
Geoff Cooper, Production and Programming Manager, Nine Queensland said: “With My Way we’re making a name for Queensland production, delivering world-class cinematography and showcasing regions like the Capricorn Coast and Moreton Bay to give the state the exposure it deserves.”
Episode one on Sunday showcases four business operators doing things differently in South-East Queensland and Rockhampton. We meet vivacious James and Kirstie Rennell from Craft’d Grounds, a boutique coffee shop that was once a dilapidated, century-old site in Brisbane’s north and is now a thriving community of restaurants, bars and breweries that even has a martial arts gym.
Next, viewers meet Paratech Paragliding’s Jason Turner who turned a sour redundancy into a career in the sky, satisfying his need for adrenaline and teaching tourists to take off and spread their wings while taking in stunning views of the Gold Coast Hinterland.
After being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2015, the ability to enjoy the ocean he grew up by changed drastically for Moffat Beach artist Colin Chandler. But despite his medical condition and the need for a motorised scooter, he maintains a strong connection with the ocean and creates brilliant artworks with intricate details of the waves.
Finally, My Way heads north to St Aubins Village, a heritage-listed property offering guests a slice of life in historical Rockhampton. Mother-daughter duo Janice Dawson and Lauren Myors host heritage tours for people who want to step back in time and offer a breathtaking venue for weddings or other social celebrations.
MY WAY RETURNS: SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5, AT 5.30PM ON CHANNEL 9 AND 9NOW
FOLLOW @9myway on Instagram
Catch up on 9Now
SheSociety is a site for the women of Australia to share our stories, our experiences, shared learnings and opportunities to connect.
Leave a Reply