EXPLORING INSPIRATION WITH DESIGNER BRAHMAN PERERA AND THE MAZDA CX-60
When it comes to inspiration, everyone has their unique sources. For designer Brahman “Brem” Perera, it’s the dynamic trifecta of fashion, art and travel that fuels his creativity. Recently, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Brem to delve into his world of inspiration and explore his special connection with the Daylesford region, all while cruising through the picturesque landscapes in the First-Ever, All-Hybrid Mazda CX-60.
The Daylesford and Hepburn Springs region holds a special place in Brem’s heart. It’s more than just a weekend escape; it’s where he has lived, married and is now renovating an old mud-brick cottage. This region serves as a refuge, a sanctuary for quiet contemplation, offering a stark contrast to his busy life in Melbourne. As he puts it, “ideas seem to crystallize better when I’m there.”
Daylesford is only 90 minutes away from the bustling CBD, but the moment you slip off the freeway, you can feel your shoulders relaxing and the air getting cleaner. It’s the perfect prelude to a weekend getaway, setting the stage for a calming experience before immersing yourself in the heart of town.
As Brem embarked on his journey into Daylesford, the refined Mazda CX-60 D50e painted a picture of serenity. “With its deep oceanic metallic blue exterior and a vast sky roof, the Mazda CX-60 felt elemental and open as I ventured beneath the Wombat Forests into the region,” said Brem.
“Navigating the region’s roads can be a challenge, with their imperfections, sharp turns, and steep inclines. However, the Mazda CX-60 handled the journey with grace, offering a cloud-like drive that was both calming and easy while remaining responsive and safe. It’s the ideal partner for a weekend of exploration.”
Kicking off the weekend, Brem arrived at Lake House, a breathtaking luxury estate with six acres of country gardens extending down to Lake Daylesford. The property offers immediate access to the lakeshore and the Wombat State Forest beyond, making it an adventure in itself.
The gardens are a wonderland of significant trees, sculptures, and artwork from the region’s top artists. You’ll find extensive outdoor terraces overlooking the lakeshore and a host of country gardens, including koala-loved stringy barks and a variety of fruit trees
There’s a common thread between his design sensibilities and the sleek, functional elements of the Mazda CX-60. Both embrace a thoughtful and sincere approach to their craft, eschewing steadfast trends in favour of their own curiosities.
During his journey, Brem couldn’t resist the allure of local culinary delights. He fondly remembers Cliffy’s, a place that brings back memories of real country comfort. The glass cabinet filled with sweet treats is hard to resist. A lemon curd slice with toasted coconut snow was a winner for him. And when it comes to pizza, Beppe’s is the place. The flip, dunk and crunch of the pizza crust into the famous Beppe’s ranch sauce is the finishing touch to your personal pizza flavour favourites.
Before you end your Daylesford adventure, a visit to Mount Franklin is a must in Brem’s books. Just a short drive from Daylesford town, it’s the perfect spot for a long walk followed by a relaxing picnic. The region is a treasure trove of inspiration and relaxation, offering a range of experiences to savour, explore and draw inspiration from. And the Mazda CX-60, with its grace and simplicity, is the perfect companion to navigate this beautiful landscape.
Brem experienced the CX-60 D50e in GT specification with the added Vision Package, offering a host of extra features such as a 360-degree view monitor with see-through view, Adaptive LED headlamps, Cruising & Traffic Support (CTS) and Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA).
Featuring an all-new 3.3-litre inline six-cylinder diesel, the powerful motor is assisted by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system for impressive efficiency, whatever the journey.
