By DARCY HENNESSY
THE beautifully presented book, ‘The Dandenong Ranges’, written by Nick Anchen, features the history and many photographs of the Hills region.
The book originated in 2006, when Anchen started researching the area, as well as taking some breath-taking photography.
Previously, he has produced numerous books about the region, including ‘The Cuckoo’ and ‘Puffing Billy- Spirit of the Dandenongs’. But Achen said he felt compelled to produce an all-inclusive book.
“The lure of the chocolate-soiled mountain range always drew me back,” he said.
“There was so much I could have included in the book, it could’ve been three times as big.“
The book was published by Sierra Publishing in Melbourne this year.
While Anchen did much of the photography himself, there was assistance from Alex Maisey, many local friends groups, and the National Library of Victoria.
The book is perfect for the coffee table, and features photography of the flowers at the National Rhododendron Gardens and its array of multi-colour fauna.
Also, there are seasonal photos from around the mountains; and wildlife of all kinds, including a section on the haunt of the lyrebird.
History is another element of the book, featuring a brief history of Kalorama to Sassafras, as well as the story of the famous train of Mount Dandenong Puffing Billy.
Anchen’s book also captures and documents the tragedic history of the region, which includes many bushfires and the infamous plane crash at Kyeema.
For more information, contact Sierra Publishing on 0417 250 166, or visit www.sierraaustralia.com.
Anchen will be present at two upcoming launches of the book.
Firstly, at Rainy Day Books at The Basin, on Friday, 1 July, between 5pm and 7pm.
Then, at the Belgrave Book Barn on Saturday, 2 July, between 11am and 1pm.
