Friend of the Lexus brand Steve Smith sets his sights on the 2028 Olympic Games.
The lively local lineup that will have you feeling festive
Woodcut transforms simple dining into an unforgettable experience
Edited and produced by Zakazukha
0433 284 941 www.zakazukha.com
Writers
Melinda Burton, Bruce Nelson
Photography Juan Leyva
Design and layout
Belinda Foord
Subjects
Steve Smith, LBX Morizo RR, Martin Lazanski, RX450h+, Jackelope Hotel, Woodcut Restaurant.
Dealership
Lexus of Parramatta
10 Church Street, Parramatta, NSW 2150 (02) 9204 6520 lexusofparramatta.com.au
Enquiries
For all advertising enquiries contact: Elissa Glenn
Marketing and Customer Relationship Manager (02) 9204 6520 eglenn@lexusofparramatta.com.au
Takumi is published quarterly
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Only Lexus Genuine Parts are designed and tested for your Lexus.
Know the cost upfront, tailored to your model and based on standard operating conditions.
Enjoy a complimentary loan car, pick up and delivery service and exterior wash and vacuum.
To maintain your Warranty and keep your Lexus running at its best your scheduled service intervals are every: Lexus GX & LX: 6 Months / 10,000 km
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Maintains peak performance and efficiency. Helps prevent any unexpected issues. Protects your Lexus Warranty. Ensures long-term reliability and resale value.
Thank you for choosing us – we look forward to caring for you and your Lexus ensuring every journey is smooth and enjoyable for many years to come.
“THE ART OF LIVING, CRAFTED WITH CARE.”
It’s with great pleasure that I introduce the very first edition of TAKUMI, Lexus of Parramatta’s new bespoke lifestyle magazine.
Inspired by the Takumi philosophy - the relentless pursuit of perfection in craftsmanship – TAKUMI celebrates the artistry, meticulous attention to detail, and deep pride that goes into creating works of enduring quality. This publication is designed to celebrate the world of Lexus and the community around us.
Each edition, you will discover stories of our friends of the brand, highlights from memorable events, and the exclusive benefits that accompany Lexus ownership. You’ll also be guided through the cultural Pulse of Sydney, inspired escapes in Vista, and culinary discoveries in Flavour.
At its heart, TAKUMI is about you, our community and what it means to own a Lexus within Australia. We’d love to hear from you if there’s a story you would like to see featured in a future edition.
We hope TAKUMI becomes a source of inspiration, connection, and enjoyment for you. Thank you for being part of our Lexus family and we look forward to sharing many more editions together.
Meon Nehrybecki
Dealer Principal Lexus of Parramatta
6.TAKUMI
The pinnacle of artisanal achievement
8.AMBASSADOR
Friend of the brand Steve Smith is focusing on the two formats of the game that will help him get to the 2028 Olympic Games
14.EVENTS
The Lexus of Parramatta Golf Day
18.NEW MODEL
The Lexus LBX Morizo RR; a passion project
22.UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT
Service Manager Martin Lazanski has built a career defined by excellence
26.HYBRID RX45H+
The perfect blend of electric efficiency and petrol flexibility
32. VISTA
The Mornington Peninsula: a playground of coastal beauty, gourmet delights, and luxurious escapes
38.ENCORE PROGRAM
Car ownership made seamless
42. FLAVOUR
Woodcut’s menu follows the art of cooking, not convention
46. PULSE
City days, summer nights
From ancient Japan to modern admiration, this singular word embodies expertise, artistry and craftsmanship. To be recognised as Takumi is earned, not given.
All over the world, some words carry the weight of centuries. Takumi is one of them.
The concept of Takumi dates back to ancient Japan. Derived from the Japanese characters ‘taku’ meaning ‘to make’ and ‘mi’ meaning ‘to see’ Takumi represents mastery and craftsmanship in one’s chosen field. While traditionally linked to crafts such as woodworking, or pottery, the title now spans fields like automotive design, new technologies, cuisine and more.
It isn’t something pinned on like a badge or a rank awarded after a test. It takes years, often decades, of relentless practice under careful guidance. Expertise, attention to detail, patience, discipline and respect are all essential qualities that shape the legacy.
To be recognised as Takumi, one must devote 60,000 hours refining the skills of their craft. To break that down, it’s the equivalent of working eight hours a day, 250 days a year,
for 30 years. Mentorship, humility and dignity guide the practice, ensuring the preservation of cultural heritage and the creation of remarkable works.
It isn’t something defined by skill alone; it’s forged through absolute dedication to quality and an unwavering commitment to perfection. Ultimately, Takumi is more than a title or recognition, it is the pinnacle of artisanal achievement.
Within each Lexus production facility, there is no greater honour than to be called Takumi; there is also no greater responsibility.
Lexus Takumi master craftsman, possess a unique blend of skill, spirit and a true belief in excellence. Each focuses on a particular element of the car-making process and has at least a quarter of a century of experience in their field. While consistently honing their expertise, they share it too. As team leaders, they conserve Lexus traditions, fostering innovative spirit in new talent, passing on valuable skills and processes and ensuring every aspect of every Lexus is flawless.
Firmly setting his sights to play for Australia in the 2028 Olympic Games, international cricketer Steve Smith is focusing on the two formats of the game that will help him get there.
From the long-form and highly tactical test series to the thrilling Twenty20 (T20), both have their place in Steve Smith’s plan.
His strategy is simple – play the Ashes and other test cricket, the game he fell in love with, while honing his skills on the increasingly strategic shortened format.
“The main reason I stopped playing one day cricket was so I could play more T20 in franchises around the world,” he says.
“I haven’t been in the Australian T20 team for nearly
two years now, so playing for Australia gives me a good chance to refresh my skills.
“I’m looking at this as part of my long-term goal to be part of the Olympic team in 2028.”
Cricket will form part of the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles and will be a T20 format tournament with men’s and women’s teams competing.
It will be the second time that cricket has been played at the games, last featured during the Summer Olympics in 1900.
“T20 is a cool game to play but it’s changed a lot over the years since its inception,” Steve says.
“It used to be a bit more hit and giggle, but now there’s a lot more strategy to it.
“Obviously you’ve got to be really aggressive as a batter, particularly when you’re at the top of the order and facing the powerplay, but it’s fun to play.”
However, test cricket is Steve’s first love and what got him into the game in the first place.
“I look back when I was a kid and that’s all I ever wanted to do, play for Australia in the longest form, and for me it’s always been test cricket at number one,” he says.
“It’s a lot different to the other formats, you’ve got to get in the grind and navigate the different scenarios and what’s thrown at you.”
One of the most eagerly awaited events this summer will be the Ashes series between Australia and England.
Hosted in Australia, this series promises to be a fierce contest for cricket’s most coveted urn.
The five-match Ashes Test series originated from
a satirical obituary in The Sporting Times after Australia’s first victory on English soil, which declared English cricket “dead” and stated that “the body will be cremated and the ashes taken to Australia”.
Leading into the series, Steve is expected to be a cornerstone of Australia’s batting lineup, with his experience and skill set providing stability and firepower.
“I LOOK BACK WHEN I WAS A KID AND THAT’S ALL I EVER WANTED TO DO, PLAY FOR AUSTRALIA”
“IT’S REALLY GROWN OVER THE LAST FIVE OR SIX YEARS TO A POINT WHERE THERE’S LOADS OF TOURNAMENTS AROUND THE WORLD FOR WOMEN TO PLAY”
The Australian cricket season this year is poised to be an exciting and historic event.
“Summer is the time for cricket, and this summer is probably the biggest it’s been for a long time, so it’s great to have so much on at our disposal,” Steve says.
Apart from the Ashes and local and international T20 series, Australia will enjoy the domestic level Sheffield Shield, and the One Day International Cricket.
Women’s cricket will also continue to grow in prominence and excitement this summer.
“It’s really grown over the last five or six years to a point where there’s loads of tournaments around the world for women to play and the Australian team have been so
dominant for over a decade now,” Steve says.
“It was unfortunate to see them bow out of the recent World Cup, but you know they’ve set the bar very high and set the standard for a long time.”
On the future of the game, Steve hopes aspiring youngsters will still continue to seek to play test cricket just as he did.
“With all that’s on offer now, particularly in the shorter formats and tournaments, you can get picked up and play around the world,” he says.
“But for me it’s always been test cricket and hopefully the kids coming up through the ranks can see it that way too.”
Pictured with Steve Smith, the Lexus RX 500H F Sport Performance blends hybrid sophistication with athletic intent.
The most powerful RX to date, this model pairs a 2.4-litre turbocharged combustion engine with two electric motors to produce a combined 273 kW’s of power and 551Nm of torque.
Setting a new standard and delivering exhilarating hybrid power, the DIRECT4 all-wheel drive technology balances the power and torque between front and rear
axles for an effortlessly composed drive.
As always, the ride is quintessentially Lexus; comfortable, luxurious and beautifully designed. With a comprehensive suite of safety features, thoughtful technologies and an exceptional driving experience, the Lexus RX 500H F Sport Performance has been crafted to exceed expectations.
The Lexus of Parramatta 2025 Golf Day was an exceptional success with two players having the opportunity to attend the Lexus Melbourne Cup and over $10,415 raised for our charity partner St Gabriel’s School.
Held at the prestigious Concord Golf Club, the event spanned over two dates, the 7th of August and 29th September, offering participants the chance to refine their game and enjoy a friendly tournament with fellow enthusiasts.
On Day 1, we welcomed 143 guests, with 141 players joining us for Day 2 in September. Each day began with the 18hole tournament, while a golf lesson, led by three local professionals, ran concurrently for those looking to sharpen their skills in putting, chipping and driving. Afterwards, all guests came together in the clubhouse to enjoy a two-course meal and prize presentation.
Congratulations to the winners across both days of the event.
On Day 1, the team winners were Ester Park, Soon Kwon Rhee, Eunjung Lee and Kwang Ho Lee, who claimed victory by three shots with a nett 53.75. Day 2, saw Paul Meyer, Kate Meyer, Robert Brown and Diane Brown take the honours.
The Lexus Melbourne Cup winners were Rodney Frost and Suzanne Toepfer, who enjoyed the exclusive opportunity to play at Royal Melbourne Golf Club and attend LANDMARK by Lexus for the running of the Lexus Melbourne Cup.
Lexus of Parramatta Dealer Principal Meon Nehrybecki says the event is about more than just the game.
“Our annual Lexus of Parramatta Golf Day is about connection, community and giving back,” says Mr Nehrybecki. “From friendly competition on the championship course to personalised lessons for our newcomers, it’s always a day filled with great company and plenty of smiles.
“Thank you to everyone who joined us and supported our charity partner St Gabriel’s School, your generosity helps
“OUR ANNUAL LEXUS OF PARRAMATTA GOLF DAY IS ABOUT CONNECTION, COMMUNITY AND GIVING BACK”
make a real difference.”
Funds raised went to help St Gabriel’s School, which caters to students who have a mild to moderate intellectual disability. Founded 100 years ago, the school educates 210 students from kindergarten through to Year 12 and strives to deliver tailored curriculum in a purpose-built environment that enables the most positive outcomes for students.
Looking ahead, the Lexus of Parramatta 2026 Golf Day is set to return to Concord Golf Club and be held over three days on Monday 21st September, Thursday 24th September and Monday 28th September. Mark your calendar for another fantastic experience on the course, with great hospitality and unforgettable moments.
The Lexus of Parramatta Golf Days are hosted by Gillard Golf, who are widely recognised as the best corporate golf management company in Australia. Gillard Golf has hosted national programs and individual days from small to large businesses organised by PGA professional David Gillard and his team.
Established in 1899, Concord Golf Club is an exclusive Members only club. Ranked number 34 in Australia and seven in NSW, it has hosted a number of championship tournaments including the Australian PGA, NSW Open, ANZ Championship and Australian Women’s Open. The challenging and superbly presented course, classic clubhouse and beautifully manicured gardens make it one of Sydney’s most respected golf clubs.
Built to embody spirited performance, precision and a playful edge, the Lexus LBX Morizo RR is no ordinary car; it’s engineered to excite and designed to make every drive a reason to smile.
Not every car can trace its origin back to the personal passion of an international business leader, but the Lexus LBX Morizo RR can.
Envisioned and guided by Akio Toyoda, Chairman of Toyota Motor Corporation, this compact performance SUV captures his lifelong love of driving and racing.
The name Morizo RR itself is a nod to Toyoda’s racing alter ego, while RR stands for Rookie Racing, his own motorsport team, ‘Morizo’ is the pseudonym he races and tests cars under.
A true car enthusiast, Toyoda wanted a compact Lexus that could excel just as effortlessly on a racetrack as it does during a city commute.
“He is a renowned motorsport fan, and this car was his passion project,” says Lexus of Parramatta New Car Sales Consultant Ben Brannen. “Akio Toyoda is someone who believes driving should be an enjoyable and fun experience, and this vehicle is a perfect reflection of that.”
At the heart of this compact powerhouse is a 1.6-litre in-line three-cylinder intercooled turbocharged engine. With 206 kW of power and 390 Nm of torque, the LBX Morizo RR is paired with a Direct Shift 8-speed automatic transmission.
“Most people don’t expect much from a three-cylinder engine, but that changes when they find out it’s the same engine used in a World Rally Championship car,” says Ben.
The credentials of the Lexus LBX Morizo RR are impressive. With its finely tuned transmission, sharp braking system, and adjustable power distribution, it might be small in size, but it is mighty in terms of performance.
“It’s an agile car and very comfortable as a daily drive,” says Ben. “When you put it in sports mode, you can send 50 percent of the power to the front end and 50 percent of the power to the rear wheels, which makes it a strong performer, especially when you want to take a spirited drive.”
It’s not just numbers and specs that make the LBX Morizo RR special; it’s the way it drives.
“Honestly, it will put a smile on your face when you drive it; it’s a very capable sports car,” says Ben. “The level of grip in the corners in incredible, the suspension is perfect, and the braking system is sensitive, but in a good way. And if you take a look at the videos of Akio Toyoda describing how much work has gone into the car, you can feel it when you drive it.”
Despite its racing roots, the LBX Morizo RR doesn’t sacrifice on comfort. Lexus’s signature refinement is present, with advanced sound and vibration suppression, dedicated sports seats, aluminium pedals, and interior accents all enhance the driving experience.
“Once you see it and once you drive it; it’s going to get your attention,” says Ben. “You can love the car for what it is, but I do think once you learn the origin story, you can appreciate it even more.”
The Lexus LBX always makes an entrance
Dynamic hybrid per formance delivers a superior driving experience and seamless voice command technology is designed to give you total control.1While Lexus Encore opens up a world of owner benefits, such as exclusive hotel privileges.2
Craf ted with a bold personality and captivating presence, the Lexus LBX leaves a lasting impression. When you ’ re in the driver ’ s seat, you don’t show up. You arrive.
CONTACT YOUR LOCAL LEXUS DEALER TODAY
OF
&
With over 20 years of experience, Martin Lazanksi, Service Manager at Lexus of Parramatta, has built a career defined by excellence, loyalty, and genuine connection. From industry awards to global brand experiences, his dedication to service and customers continues to shape the Lexus of Parramatta standard.
Q: What has driven your loyalty and longevity with Lexus?
A: I started my career 32 years ago and I’ve pretty much grown up working for Toyota and Lexus dealerships. I know the brand, I love the way the brand looks after their people, and the quality of the brand.
Q: What have been the most rewarding aspects of your journey with Lexus?
A: For me, it’s the people, I’ve built some close friendships over time. The other rewarding part is the recognition for success; as service manager, I’ve been fortunate to win awards with Lexus Australia and travel internationally with them and these experiences and incentives have been memorable and motivating.
Q: What values do you feel have shaped your career the most?
A: Putting people first. The vehicle is an extension of a person’s life. So, if you keep people happy, they’re obviously going to keep returning.
Q: What is Lexus’ point of difference?
A: I would say the standout is the quality of the vehicles. Over the years, I’ve seen clients truly value this, and increasingly, more people are realising Lexus is a brand where quality is second to none.
Q: Over your 20-plus years at Lexus, what milestones or decisions have left the biggest impression on you?
A: I get excited when they release good performance models, because it doesn’t happen often. Lexus is known for being an everyday premium car, so when a performance model arrives, it’s a big deal for me. I’ve really enjoyed the niche performance vehicles, such as the LC 500, when it came out, and now the new LBX Morizo.
Q: What is your favourite Lexus model and why?
A: If someone asked me, what vehicle would I buy, I’d go for a Lexus NX 350h F Sport or the RX hybrid. I’m a hybrid person; I think that technology is the way of the future and it’s incredibly reliable through Lexus and Toyota, who are pioneers in the luxury market.
Q: Can you talk us through the hybrid models and explain the advantages they offer compared to entirely electric vehicles?
A: Many people don’t fully realise the benefits of hybrids. They combine a petrol engine with an electric system, so there’s no need to charge, the car manages it automatically. Beyond fuel savings, hybrids allow for smaller engines without compromising power, and they reduce wear on brakes, cutting maintenance costs significantly. Plug-in hybrids take this further, offering up
“BEYOND FUEL SAVINGS, HYBRIDS ALLOW FOR SMALLER ENGINES WITHOUT COMPROMISING POWER”
“THE VEHICLE IS AN EXTENSION OF A PERSON’S LIFE. SO, IF YOU KEEP PEOPLE HAPPY, THEY’RE OBVIOUSLY GOING TO KEEP RETURNING.”
to 60-85 kilometres of pure electric driving, perfect for daily city trips, while still providing petrol backup for longer drives or towing. They’re efficient, convenient, and increasingly the way of the future. The plug-in hybrids have been around for a while, but the technology in the Lexus brand is very, very good.
Q: In your view, what keeps people connected and invested in the brand?
A: The quality of the brand is key, but relationships are just as important. Over my 20 years here, clients keep returning to the brand and to connect with us, whether it be myself or with one of our service team members. It’s a fantastic to see some clients even wait to speak with specific team members and it’s these moments that highlight the personal connection.
Q: What contributing factors have shaped your career at Lexus?
A: You spend so much of your life at work, and I couldn’t have achieved what I have without the right team behind me. Building strong relationships with staff and having supportive management makes all the difference and it’s what make a career enjoyable. The occasional difficult day with a client only reinforces why I love being part of the brand, because those moments are rare.
Q: What excites you the most about the future of Lexus?
A: The direction the brand is taking with future technology, such as the electrified space and even the potential of hydrogen vehicles. Just when you think innovation has reached its peak, something new comes along that makes me rethink what’s possible.
Q: When you reflect on your career, are there particular experiences that have underscored that this is the right place for you to be?
A: I’ve been fortunate to receive a few awards, which have taken me to places like Las Vegas, San Francisco and Japan. Beyond being career milestones, these experiences are personal highlights and moments that make me pause and realise I’ve achieved something and been recognised by Lexus. And that recognition is incredibly rewarding.
Q: For someone considering their next vehicle, what advice would you offer?
Q: In what ways does the Encore program enhance the client experience?
A: One of the main reasons people choose Lexus vehicles is for the Encore program. Through our Encore program, we offer privileges that fit busy lifestyles, like collecting a vehicle from a client’s home or workplace and returning it, washed and ready to go, once serviced.
Q: What does exceptional service mean to you?
A: Exceptional service to me is about meeting the needs of each person. A vehicle is an extension of someone’s life, so our goal is to make ownership effortless. It’s about offering those thoughtful touches they’re unlikely to find elsewhere and taking the time to build a genuine relationship so they’re never just another number.
A: The key is to think about how you’ll use the vehicle. It’s easy to fall in love with a car’s design, but it also needs to suit your lifestyle. For example, if you’re driving long distances, a standard petrol model might make more sense than a hybrid. On the other hand, if you take shorter trips and can make the most of the electric range, a plug-in hybrid could be ideal. Ultimately, it’s about matching the car to your everyday needs.
Crafted by the pioneers of hybrid luxur y SUVs, the Lexus Plug-in Hybrid range fits per fectly around your lifestyle. E cient electric power for those ever yday journeys; reassuring hybrid technology for when you want to go fur ther With the freedom to seamlessly switch between the two, there’s no compromise on per formance and no distance is too great.
Guaranteed by more than two decades of hybrid innovation and our signature dedication to excellence, this advanced technology can be experienced in both the Lexus NX and RX ranges. Giving you the choice you desire and the per formance you expect, in an SUV that’s designed for wherever you want to go next.
Launched earlier this year, the Lexus RX 450h+ offers drivers the perfect blend of electric efficiency and petrol flexibility, without compromising any of the details from the signature Lexus experience.
For many drivers, the road from petrol to electric feels like a leap, and a large one at that. The new RX 450h+ however, makes it glide. As plug-in hybrids gain momentum in the Australian market, Lexus is leading the charge with a model that offers the familiarity of a traditional engine along with the refinement of electric driving; all wrapped up in unmistakable Lexus luxury.
“Plug-in hybrids are having a moment,” says Lexus of Parramatta New Car Sales Consultant Ben Brannen. “They offer the best of both worlds. EV efficiency for shorter trips, petrol power for longer drives and absolutely no compromise on comfort or performance.”
For those uninitiated, a standard hybrid charges its batteries in three ways: while the combustion engine is running, while driving without accelerating, and whenever the brakes are applied. Basically, they charge themselves quietly in the background.
Except the RX 450h+ goes a step further, adding a plug-in option, enabling owners to top up the battery via a home power point, a wall charger or even a fast charger at a shopping centre.
“The benefit is that it’s going to give you a range of around 70 kilometres of electric-only driving and that’s without a drop of petrol,” says Ben. “It bridges the gap nicely between a car that still has your conventional internal combustion engine and a full EV.”
For most Australians, that’s enough to cover the average daily commute, with 35 kilometres to work and 35 home. It’s a setup that’s hard to argue with: quiet, efficient and incredibly convenient.
But efficiency doesn’t mean compromise.
“To own and drive, it’s the ultimate luxury,” says Ben. “It’s got the same features of what I would say is our most comfortable SUV.”
The RX 450h+ carries over the comfort and features of the RX 350 Sports Luxury, with a panoramic glass roof, a digital rear-view mirror, and even self-parking capabilities.
Inside, the attention to detail is pure Lexus: semi-aniline leather-accented seat trim, 10-way power-adjustable front seats with memory, heated and ventilated front and outboard rear seats, a woodgrain-look instrument panel and steering wheel ornamentation, as well as power reclining and folding rear seats.
“The comfort level is easily my favourite thing,” says Ben. “It’s quiet, it’s beautiful, it’s smooth. It does an exceptional job of blocking out traffic noise and it’s easy to drive. Plus,
it has a 21-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound system and adaptive variable suspension that constantly adjusts to smooth out bumps and reduce body roll.”
For those wondering about performance and power, the RX 450h+ delivers. Under the sculpted bonnet lies a 2.5-litre series-parallel plug-in hybrid system paired with front and rear electric motors, producing 227 kilowatts and accelerating from 0-100 kilometres per hour in a claimed 6.5 seconds.
The RX 450h+ uses the same hybrid powertrain as the NX 450h+, featuring a robust lithium-ion battery designed to handle most inner-city driving. This allows for an impressively low Australian Design Rule (ADR) fuel consumption of just 1.3 litres per 100 kilometres, based on the NEDC combined test cycle.
Whether you’re only just wading into the world of electric driving or simply have an eye on a luxury SUV, the RX 450h+ makes a compelling case that sophistication and sustainability and style can coexist.
“IT’S QUIET, IT’S BEAUTIFUL, IT’S SMOOTH.”
Anotherunforgettable Melbourne Cup Carnival has come to a close, marking our 23rd year as a proud Partner of the Victoria Racing Club and another season of supporting Australia’s most prestigious racing event.
With beaches for every mood, wineries for every palate and endless ‘Instagram’ sights, the Mornington Peninsula is certainly one destination worth putting on the to-do list.
Dramatic cliffs, rolling vineyards, and scenic coastlines, at first glance, the Mornington Peninsula could be mistaken for a postcard. But this quiet corner of Victoria, a little over an hour’s drive from Melbourne, is much more than a pretty view and there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
“The atmosphere has the laidback feel of a beachside oasis or small country town, while offering world class culinary experiences and any activity or cultural opportunity one could want while on holidays,” says Jackalope Hotel General Manager Clare Hoffman.
Main Street Mornington is lined with galleries, studios and creative spaces. The region’s lively calendar is full of festivals such as the Peninsula VineHop Festival, the Main Street Mornington Festival and the Mornington Winter Music Festival. Even when it comes to the dining options, every craving is catered for including award-winning restaurants, artisan cafes, coastal fish and chips and plenty of food and wine tours.
“VISITORS CAN MOVE SEAMLESSLY BETWEEN BEAUTIFUL BEACHES, BOUTIQUE CELLAR DOORS, HOT SPRINGS, COSMOPOLITAN DINING AND SHOPPING OPTIONS IN A SINGLE DAY.”
“The Mornington Peninsula offers a unique blend of coastal beauty, country calm and contemporary culture,” says Clare. “Visitors can move seamlessly between beautiful beaches, boutique cellar doors, hot springs, cosmopolitan dining and shopping options in a single day.”
For those after more than a day trip, the Jackalope Hotel, located on the 11-hectare LL Vineyard in Merricks North, brings together a charming blend of art, culture and gastronomy, creating an immersive world that invites guests to unwind, enjoy and fully savour the Peninsula lifestyle.
“Jackalope houses everything under one roof for a true escape from the everyday, from dining experiences, spa retreats, unparalleled service to complimentary inclusions for every guest,” says Clare. “There is an understanding that each stay at Jackalope is a special one, and the team works to make sure all needs are not only met but exceeded with an
exceptional level of care and attention to detail.”
Guests consistently rave about the Jackalope’s impeccable service, with its thoughtful complimentary inclusions and attentive touches frequently cites as their favourite part of the stay.
“The complimentary inclusions are just one of the ways in which the small moments have a big impact on our guests,” says Clare. “These include chauffeured transfers within 10 kilometres in Lexus hybrid vehicles, daily activities from wine tastings to yoga overlooking the vineyard, unlimited popcorn and ice-cream deliveries to your room and a fully stocked complimentary mini bar.”
With floor to ceiling windows framing the surrounding vineyards, signature suites, and a culinary program showcasing local ingredients, many sourced from the property itself, the Jackalope includes something for everyone.
“Our hatted restaurants Doot Doot
Doot and Rare Hare, signature bar Flaggerdoot and LL Vineyard cellar door are all within steps of one another,” says Clare. “They each play together and offer our guests the ability to curate a day of culinary delights. My recommendation would be to stop by for pre-dinner drinks and order the Jasmin Gimlet from Flaggerdoot, before you elevate your meal at Doot Doot Doot with the table-side seared wagyu signature add on, it is seared on a salt brick and melts in your mouth.”
Beyond basking in the Jackalope’s offering, Clare recommends the Two Bays Walking Track.
“It’s the perfect way to enjoy the natural wonders that the Mornington Peninsula has,” she says. “It is a truly beautiful hike that allows you to unplug in the Arthurs Seat National Park before ending at the breathtaking cliffs of Cape Schanck.”
While summer is undoubtedly peak season, drawing families and sun seekers to the beaches and national parks, the cooler months have their own quietly captivating appeal.
“There is a buzz to the area during the warmer months and guests at Jackalope are often seen sunning themselves on the pool deck, enjoying a cocktail or participating in outdoor activities around our lake or in the kitchen garden,” says Clare. “However, autumn and winter offer a more calming, intimate experience. We embrace the season with warming fireplaces, an infrared sauna that overlooks the vineyards and gathering spots that foster a natural connection between guests and lean into the intimacy of the cooler climate.”
The Peninsula has quietly earned its reputation as one
of Australia’s premier wine regions, nurtured by a mix of maritime breezes, diverse soils and the expertise of local winemakers.
“We have cool-climate vineyards, including LL Vineyard on which Jackalope resides, producing some of the country’s best pinot noirs and chardonnays, alongside a thriving farm-to-table movement,” says Clare. “Guests are invited to engage with the terroir of the LL Vineyard through wine tastings and celebrations of place that reflect the rhythms of the region.”
With refined dining, celebrated wineries, coastal scenery and rick cultural experiences, the Mornington Peninsula makes it easy to indulge. It’s a destination that encourages visitors to slow down, savour each moment and create memories of an unforgettable getaway.
Guests who are part of the Lexus Encore program are treated to a suite of elevated perks from the moment they arrive at the Jackalope. Encore members can enjoy sparkling wine served in-room on arrival, a DIY spa treatment, early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability), and a room upgrade on arrival when possible. Guests can also take advantage of Jackalope’s Lexus car service within a 15km radius; perfect for travelling between a number of hotspots in seamless style. All benefits are subject to availability and can be redeemed directly through the Lexus app.
From exclusive premium partner offers and invitations to 24-hour roadside assistance service, the Lexus Encore program is car ownership made seamless.
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of owning a new car. The pristine dash, fresh new paint, and that unmistakable new car smell that we all love. When that new car is a Lexus, the excitement doesn’t stop when you leave the dealership. Instead, it gets even better with Encore Owner Benefits, a program designed to make looking after your vehicle effortless while adding touches of luxury and fun to every aspect of your life.
When you purchase an eligible new or Certified Pre-Owned Lexus, you’re not simply driving home in a new set of wheels, you’re joining Encore Owner Benefits, a unique program that unlocks even more luxury. Available for vehicles purchased on or after 1 January 2020, this complimentary membership gives you access to a suite of exclusive owner benefits. Think culinary adventures, travel opportunities, invitations to special events, 24/7 roadside assistance, service loan cars and more.
The program opens the door to a world of experiences, from luxury drive events to gastronomic delights at Australia’s biggest names in fine dining. Encore Members are invited to indulge at their leisure, on their own terms and enjoy exclusive offers from a selection of Lexus’s premium partners across fashion, retail, travel and more.
With Lexus, total peace of mind comes as a standard.
To ensure looking after your car is seamless, vehicle owner benefits include 24/7 DriveCare 6 roadside assistance and service loan cars. Encore members can book a complimentary loan car when scheduling logbook servicing and either pick it up at drop off or have the Lexus Service Centre handle collection and delivery. When the service is complete, the vehicle is returned with a complimentary exterior wash and vacuumed interior.
Becoming an Encore member is simple.
Once your eligible Lexus is purchased and delivered, your Lexus Dealer will complete your Encore Membership enrolment. You will then receive an email with instructions on how to access the Lexus Encore App and complete your registration.
When you become a Lexus owner, the vehicle is only the beginning of the experience.
6 DriveCare as part of Lexus Encore benefits applies for the term of membership to Lexus Encore, with exceptions applying to certain vehicles, through complimentary DriveCare superseding the term of the Encore Membership. Coverage and service inclusions vary dependent on the type of vehicle and vehicle location. For full T&Cs see your Lexus Dealer or lexus.com.au/smallprint/encore-terms.
N D A R D
Conceived around cooking methods and a passion for entertainment, Woodcut transforms simple dining into an unforgettable experience of fire, smoke, and flavour.
Woodcut; it’s not like stepping into a restaurant but another world. It has that ‘wow’ factor and that’s exactly what founders Ross and Sunny Lusted had in mind.
Located in Barangaroo, every inch of the harbourside restaurant is designed to feel otherworldly, from the custom ceramics to the hand-selected tabletops. Because here, a meal isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s entertainment. Sure, what’s on the plate is downright delicious, but there’s also the surrounding spectacle.
“People can visually watch the chefs work,” says owner and award-winning chef Ross Lusted. “We often have to remind people they can’t go into the kitchen to have a look or turn their own steak. But that’s what I love about it and it’s exciting to see that.”
Despite the sheer volume of steak that comes off the grill, Woodcut isn’t a one headline act.
“Obviously we sell a lot of steak,” says Ross. “But my wife is vegetarian, so we have this juxtaposition of people thinking it’s just a steak house, which it isn’t, it goes beyond that.”
“THOSE ARE THE FOOD MEMORIES EVERYONE HAS, AND I LOVE SEEING THEM. CHARCOAL, WOOD, AND SMOKE; WHATEVER IS ON THE PLATE, PEOPLE ALWAYS RECALL THE TASTE OF FOOD COOKED OVER FIRE.”
Here, the concept isn’t simply about a menu crafted by a chef but inspired by travel to far flung corners of the world, earthy cooking methods and carefully selected ingredients.
“Most restaurants are about a chef writing a menu with an entrée, main course and dessert,” says Ross. “For me, restaurants are so much more. People want to be excited; they want to be stimulated.”
With charcoal grills, Japanese robata, woodburning ovens and even steam kettles, Woodcut is a living breathing culinary stage with 50 chefs, over 180 staff, four open kitchens and counter seating that pulls diners into the action.
“Restaurants should be about entertainment,” says Ross. “It should excite you and feel like you’ve walked into another world. At Woodcut, you can sit at the counter and talk to the chefs, smell the smoke, see the activity, it’s engaging and sensory stimulating. And that for me is the point of difference and huge part of our success.”
Ross likes to travel, and his destinations have become a collection of culinary puzzle pieces that click into place at Woodcut.
“I was finding the more I travelled, people were much more interested in the elements of cooking,” he says. “You visit Guadalajara in Mexico and they’re grilling corn over open flames and in Croatia, up in the mountains, they’re cooking veal and lamb on slow beds of charcoal. So instead of me pontificating and writing a menu, Woodcut is all about ingredients and cooking methods.”
Seasonal ingredients, like fresh white asparagus, are not merely plated, they are considered for where they will best work.
“We ask ourselves, where is it best going to perform and that might be on the ash grill, or the steam kettles or perhaps in the wood oven,” he says. “The food is the simple part, but the cooking method elevates it. For instance, you can take some peas and cook them over the Japanese grill,
which runs at about 600 degrees, and they pop and the skins blister beautifully. And it’s amazing with some olive oil and mandarin zest—which is delicious. But it’s takes someone grilling those peas perfectly.”
Woodcut isn’t built around a defining or signature dish; in fact, if something began to claim that title, Ross would take it off the menu.
“I don’t think restaurants should be a series of greatest hits or one hit wonders,” he says. “Ironically, the Barangaroo Crab cakes have developed a cult following. We use hemp seeds in the crust that add this incredible nutty flavour. It’s served with smoked oyster mayonnaise and Australian saltbush, and I think there would be a riot if these disappeared.”
Whether it’s lamb, steak or peas, cooking over fire has a way of triggering memories and stirring nostalgia is part of the magic.
“You know, you eat lamb chops on a backyard barbeque as a kid, and that flavour stays with you,” says Ross. “What excites me is when people visit, have a meal, and say ‘this reminds me of summers as a kid.’ Those are the food memories everyone has, and I love seeing them. Charcoal, wood, and smoke; whatever is on the plate, people always recall the taste of food cooked over fire.”
Images: Anson Smart Woodcut Restaurant. Crown Sydney, Level 1, Barangaroo www. crownsydney.com.au/restaurants/woodcut i @woodcutrestaurant
Concerts under the stars, thought provoking film festivals and culinary adventures that speak to the soul; summer in the city was made for indulgence. With endless events and experiences to discover, there’s no better time to step out and soak it all in. If you’re still mapping out your calendar, consider this your inspiration board: a handpicked edit of the best ways to make the most of summer’s long days and balmy nights.
December
13 December
Set against the magical backdrop of Taronga Zoo with idyllic views across Sydney Harbour, this family friendly event is a wonderful way to celebrate Christmas. Enjoy a spectacular night of entertainment, joyful tunes, a surprise visit from a very special guest from the North Pole and all the while, helping support wildlife.
17th of December – 25th of December
Step into a festive wonderland as the forecourt of St Mary’s Cathedral transforms with market stalls, delicious food and live performances. From 5.30pm to 10.30pm each evening, visitors can immerse themselves in the heart of Sydney with a celebration that brings the spirit of the season to life. Later in the evening, the cathedral becomes a backdrop for a breathtaking light projection retelling of the classic ‘The Little Drummer Boy’.
20th of December ‘25
Celebrate the festive season at the Carriageworks Christmas Market, a one-day-only extravaganza with extended shopping hours from 8am-3pm. Featuring more than 100 stallholders, including your Farmers Market favourites alongside a range of special guest vendors, this bustling market is the perfect place to be just days before Christmas.
1st of January 2026
A Sydney staple and New Year’s Day tradition, Field Day is one of the city’s most popular boutique music festivals. Known for a friendly atmosphere, the event will feature Carl Cox, Jamie Jones, Deborah De Luca, Kölsch, The Presets and more.
7th of January ‘26
Indulge in an exquisite evening of flavour featuring a sixcourse cheese tasting and a charcuterie course, each thoughtfully paired with premium wines in collaboration with Alessandro from InVinus. Guided by expert cheesemongers and a wine specialist, guests will explore the art of perfect pairings, where each bit and sip enhances one another.
Priced at $99 per head, this is a luxurious experience for the palate, with vegetarian and gluten free options available upon request.
30th and 31st of January ‘26
Celebrate two decades of musical magic as the The Whitlams join the Sydney Symphony Orchestra in two performances at the State Theatre. The Whitlams broke new ground as the first Australian indie band to collaborate with the nation’s leading orchestras in 2004, and the show has evolved with new albums written and released over the past 20 years. Audiences can expect a sweeping journey through the band’s career, enhanced by full orchestral arrangement from Australia’s finest composers, promising an evening of indie and symphonic brilliance.
ANTENNA DOCUMENTARY FILM FESTIVAL
5-15 February 2026
An annual documentary film festival established in 2011, Antenna’s mission is to promote, celebrate and champion creative documentary cinema. Each year, the team searches the globe for the latest documentaries and handpicks 50 outstanding nonfiction works. During the 10-day festival, the event features seminars, talks, panel discussions, Q&A sessions and offers a genuine place for connection and exchange.
21st of February
Opera’s wildest and greatest late-night party returns in 2026 for its fourth year. Opera Up Late, hosted once again by international comedy and cabaret star Reuben Kaye, offers a dazzling mix of re-imagined opera hits, musical theatre classics and even a few pop numbers along the way.
Originally conceived for 2023’s Sydney WorldPride, the event offers a wild ride through the world of opera with a decidedly queer lens. Dress up, or down, climb the Opera House steps, grab a drink, and prepare for a night high notes with all the music, glitz and laughs you could ask for.
KPMG SYDNEY SAIL GRAND PRIX
28 February and 1 March 2026
The most exciting race on water is making its record seventh visit to the iconic Sydney Harbour in early 2026. Now a cornerstone of the Australian summer sporting calendar, the event attracts thousands of fans from around the world to watch the two-day spectacle of exhilarating races, intense battles and action-packed entertainment.
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