WANGARATTA hospitality professionals Paul and Monique Szeligiewicz had a dream to create a casual fine dining experience together in the heart of Milawa.

They chose a site at the crossroads, completed a contemporary renovation and developed a modern Australian menu which brought together diverse cultural influences, before opening Ava in December, 2023.

Chef Paul’s enthusiasm for food began at an early age, having grown up in a family of five in Wangaratta with his three brothers and his sister.

He says helping his mother in the kitchen sparked a love for cooking, and the joy of seeing others enjoy the meals he prepared became a major source of inspiration.

When he’s not in the kitchen at Ava, Paul enjoys preparing family-style meals - simple yet flavourful dishes meant to be shared with loved ones including his little girls.

We meet Paul and Monique in the latest edition of North East Living.

In what is our 20th edition, we talk to members of the North East Regional Pre School Association, and learn about their work over the last two decades to create a supportive environment for local students and teachers, and we meet sisters Sophie and Grace Darling who are following in the footsteps of their father John and grandfather Guy Darling; taking the reins at Darling Estate Wines.

We also talk to Beechworth’s Jodie Goldsworthy, who was appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the Australia Day Honours list this year for significant service to primary industry, and hear about an amazing volunteer effort which is driving the Mansfield Heritage Museum project.

Those with an interest in arts and the outdoors will enjoy seeing how renowned artist Ralph Bristow adapted his talents to landscape design, creating a garden for all seasons in Barwite which is an inspiration to others, and tour the Wooragee home of the Mckeeman family who have proved it is possible to build a low-impact and sustainable home on a budget, without compromising on quality.

The home is featured on the cover of this edition.

We also meet Paula Harrington who loves the rural lifestyle in Whorouly so much, she now shares it with visitors by offering holiday accommodation, and find out the challenges faced by local girls who love to play AFLW and want to continue to play as they grow older.

The 20th edition of North East Living is available now for $7.95 from local outlets including Edgars Books & News in Murphy Street, and from the Wangaratta Chronicle office in Rowan Street.