Island memories shared by ABC listeners

Phillip Island was the focus on ABC Radio’s “Unofficial History” segment last week.

The regular segment on 774 hosted by Rafael Epstein, encourages listeners to ring in with their memories of a particular place in Victoria.

Last week, it was Phillip Island’s turn.

Listeners shared stories of visits to the penguins, family holidays, late night swims and favourite restaurants.

Kate from Preston remembered her first job making doughnuts at the Cowes Bakery in 1984, living in a tent with girlfriends, and spending “all summer longing to be kissed and never was”.

David recalled a rowdy Christmas party at a summer guest house.

“A few people didn’t quite make it back inside to bed. One of them told me he was woken next morning to a woman screaming. He opened his eyes to find a little penguin standing on his chest giving him a good telling off.”

Many listeners rang or texted in about Poppies Restaurant in Rhyll with one saying he had “very fond memories” of Poppies. There were plenty who agreed.

“Let’s just say, Jane was the most amazing ‘mine host’”, said one woman.

Another listener reminisced about her time working at “The Cottage” restaurant in Cowes.

“They made the most delicious roasts and desserts. There was a line out the front.”

School camps and the old Boys Home also featured in the unofficial history, as well as naked dips in freezing cold surf.

But the final word has to go to Mike at Wattle Glen.

“I told my kid sister Phillip Island was only there for summer holidays. After summer they un-hooked the bridge and towed it to Tassie to work on it.”

You can listen and read more at www.abc.net.au/radio/melbourne/programs/drive/unofficial-history-of-phillip-island/12962650