The Local April 12, 2021, Issue 225

April 12, 2021 Issue 225 Lest We Forget

The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

2 About Us

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Front cover: Alf Morrison was two months short of his 21st birthday when a bullet cut him down. Now, 104 years later, his nephew, 89-yearold Don Morrison, plans to wear replicas of Alf ’s medals at the Anzac Day service in Daylesford. Read the story by Kevin Childs on page 7.

The Local is a fortnightly community publication covering the Central Highlands of Victoria. The next edition is out on Monday, April 26, 2021. Or online on Sunday, April 25 at www.tlnews.com.au

April 12, 2021 Issue 225 Lest We Forget

Space bookings: Wednesday, April 21 Copy deadline: Thursday, April 22 Editorial deadline: Thursday, April 22 Managing editor | Donna Kelly General manager | Kyle Barnes Sub-editors | Nick Bunning and Lindsay Smith Sales | Henry Maxwell 0493 067 714

Image: InkdFotogrfa.

Writers | Kevin Childs, Tony Sawrey, Jeff Glorfeld, Carol Saffer, Narelle Groenhout and Donna Kelly

The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

Photographers | Kyle Barnes and David White

The Local is a registered trademark of The Local Publishing Group Pty Ltd. The Local is a member of the Victorian Country Press Association, with editor Donna Kelly, a director.

Graphic designer & HLH coordinator | Dianne Caithness Contributors: Glen Heyne (gardening), Indre Kisonas (design), Glenn Robinson (cartoons), Darren Lowe (gigs) and Matthew Richardson (money) Accounts | Julie Hanson Editorial: 0418 576 513 | Advertising: 0416 104 283

The content expressed within this publication does not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of The Local Publishing Group Pty Ltd. The Local Publishing Group's editorial guidelines and complaints-handling process can be found at www.tlnews.com.au We welcome all feedback.

Local Lines

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History recognised

Imagine being surrounded all the time like fish always wet like tinnitus that buzz that buzzes all the time when you think about it tinnitus goes away only when you don’t think about it fish like trout go away from wet when they jump but they have to think about it (if indeed they do think) and wet better not be too far away fish are probably not conscious of being wet all the time mid-leap they take just enough wet with them tinnitus sufferers are not always conscious of peripheral buzz but when it is not there it still is it is just that the brain has leapt somewhere else - Bill Wootton

HE Daylesford Museum Building/Reserve began as a School of Mines in the 1890s and has the earliest and most intact School of Mines laboratories and metallurgical laboratory interior in Victoria.

Bill Wootton lives in Hepburn Springs which is not to blame. He brought the buzz with him from Cottles Bridge and Ivanhoe.

Local Lines comes mainly from a group of local poets but other submissions are always welcome. To have a poem considered for publication contact Bill Wootton at cottlesbreedge@gmail.com

The brick chimney that surmounts the laboratory building is the largest, most refined and intact smelting and assaying chimney associated with a 19th century School of Mines in Victoria. These are just a couple of the many significant attributes of this historic building and site which were highlighted in a recently completed Conservation Management Plan for the Daylesford Museum Reserve site. The Daylesford Museum Reserve Committee of Management which manages and administers the site on behalf of the State Government, commissioned Dr David Rowe of Authentic Heritage Services to complete the 300-plus page document. Committee of Management chair Ken Warren said the document would be an essential tool for all stakeholders in providing professional guidance and direction on future conservation and management of the important heritage site. "It will also play an important role in securing much-needed funding to carry out urgent repairs. Our committee recently nominated the site for inclusion on the Victorian Heritage Register and the plan will greatly assist in the assessment process. If successful, the inclusion on the State Register will open up serious funding opportunities."

Above, from left, Daylesford & District Historical Society's Alex Home, Cr Brian Hood, Daylesford Community Brass Band's Shani Clark, Community Bank Daylesford District's Kate Redwood and Margaret Hodge, Ken Warren, Dr David Rowe, DELWP's Daniel McMahon and Authentic Heritage Services' Wendy Jacobs and Pam Jennings

Words: Carol Saffer | Image: Kyle Barnes

It's a grave job but Alan never lost the plot

“If there is a need for more than one coffin within the grave, you can add on a few LAN Graham, gravedigger at Daylesford Cemetery, is tall and weather tanned, with the demeanour of a solitary man who has worked with more hours,” he said. Three funerals in three different cemeteries on the same day was the heaviest his hands for a long time.

The 66-year-old will retire in May, having dug 3000 graves since taking on the job in April 1979. For the first 30 years, he single-handedly excavated the gravesites with the tools of his trade. “I had a shovel, spade, mattock and a pick,” Mr Graham said. He recalls how the position became his. Mr Graham had registered for work at the abattoirs, one of the largest employers in the district at the time On his way home, he spotted Rowan McMillan, sitting in the back of his ute in the cemetery eating a sandwich. “The conversation went, do you know of any work going, and he looked at me and said you can have my job if you want it,” Mr Graham said. He worked with Mr McMillan for three months learning the ropes before officially taking over the role. Mr Graham is comfortable in his role as a gravedigger with a visible degree of pride in his skills. He emits a sense of solitude and also an aura of precision, evident in the surety that every grave he digs is meticulous. “I’m the one who has to get up and go to work and have the job done,” he said. “I prefer to only have to worry about myself, so I can’t blame anyone else; I like being out in the open air, and I get to work on my own.” He has a routine for digging a grave, whether standard size or three-foot wide to accommodate an American coffin. It takes Mr Graham approximately seven to eight hours to complete a standard size gravesite.

workload he achieved. “There was an early morning burial at Trentham, then I had to be here [Daylesford] around lunchtime and back out at Glenlyon for about three o’clock,” Mr Graham recalls. While the backhoe has taken over a lot of the hard physical work, Mr Graham still needs to square the corners of the grave to ease lowering and fitting the coffin. Mr Graham can proudly lay claim to his skill of fastidiousness as a gravedigger, a role which his wife Ann describes as noble. *Sound like the perfect job? With Alan retiring the Daylesford Cemetery is after someone to take on his position. See the advert on page 23.

“There was an early morning burial at Trentham, then I had to be here (Daylesford) around lunchtime and back out at Glenlyon for about three o’clock,” - Alan Graham

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PUBLIC NOTICE - ANZAC DAY 2021 Anzac Day is important to our community and this year it will look a bit different. All participants and spectators in our local events are required to pre-register their attendance prior for contact tracing purposes. Registrations are through the trybooking links below. Tickets are also available at Council’s Customer Service Centres or by calling 03 5348 2306.

Daylesford: https://www.trybooking.com/BQAVT Dawn Service at 5.50am at the Daylesford Cenotaph Parade will commence at 10.30 along Vincent Street, to the Cenotaph. Upon arrival a service will take place. Temporary Road Closure – Vincent St between Midland Hwy and Raglan St (dawn) & Vincent St between Central Springs Road and Raglan St (10.00am- 11.30am). Midland Hwy between Bridport Street and Jamieson Street, Daylesford (10.00am-11.30am) Creswick/Smeaton: https://www.trybooking.com/BPZQM Dawn Service at 5.50am at the Cenotaph followed by a sausage sizzle at the rotunda. Parade will commence at 10.30am from the corner of Midland Hwy and Victoria St and will proceed along Albert Street to the Cenotaph. Upon arrival a service will take place. The RSL Hall will be open. Temporary Road Closure – Albert St between Victoria St and South St, Creswick (10am-11.30am)

Clunes: https://www.trybooking.com/BPZRF Dawn Service at the Clunes Cenotaph - Cnr Fraser & Service Streets commencing at 6am Cemetery Commemoration Service - Cemetery Road Clunes commencing at 8.30am March and Wreath laying - Fraser Street to the Cenotaph. Commencing 10.45am and concluding no later than 11.30am. Temporary Road Closure – Fraser & Service Street, Clunes (10.30am11.30am) Trentham: https://www.trybooking.com/BQEWS Dawn Service at the Trentham Cenotaph commencing at 6am Service and wreath-laying at 11am Any inconvenience will be kept to a minimum and your co-operation would be greatly appreciated.

Podcast mad? Want to hear the latest on the real estate market? Listen to the region's experts on Country Life. www.tlnews.com.au/country-life-podcast

Catch all the content from The Local and even some stuff that didn’t make it to print.

Pets@Work

Belle the pug, and Lola the border collie spend their days at Tylden's Springhill Nursery & Garden working hard as therapy dogs. Georgie Kent said the pooches, 12 and seven years respectively, kept everyone company as they worked and were also loved by visitors, getting lots of pats and being especially calming for children. "Everyone seems to really enjoy having them around." Georgie's family took over the nursery last September and has been busy adding to the space with a new coffee bar, cafe and a winter fireplace - along with a great range of natives and perennials. Plans for the future include live music and picnic hampers to enjoy the "beautiful space created by former owners Glen and Sandy".

691 Ashbourne Rd. Ashbourne VIC 3442 7km from Woodend. 15km from Trentham. Open to the public EVERY WEEKEND from

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We have hundreds of nursery-grown Tuberous Begonias for sale in pots, hanging pots for baskets, and on display. Each Begonia has its own DNA, so you have naming rights for each plant you buy. The ideal UNIQUE GIFT. Special Occasions, Birthdays, Mother’s Day. A simple maintenance sheet with growing instructions supplied with each purchase and a YouTube video available online. Also available by mail order at www.whitehousenursery.com.au between July and November. Please do not park on Ashbourne Rd, it is a 100kmh zone. PLENTY OF OFF-STREET CARPARKING AVAILABLE AT THE END OF THE DRIVEWAY. No toilet facilities are available due to strict COVID-19 rules being adhered to. Questions? Ring Peter on 0400 313 703.

The Little Gallery is an artist run space showcasing regional fine arts.

Opens Sunday 18th April Thursday to Monday & Public Holidays 10.30am to 4.30pm. 32B High St, Trentham

Artists Rose Wilson Helen Cottle Ri Van Veen Kim Haughie Artist in Residence Llael McDonald Larissa Gray Consignment Artists Liz Archer Dianne Longley Sam Bloomfield Anneke Hoekstra Ruby Wilson-Peirce

Contact 0439 984 314

Community News MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR Autumn is a beautiful time of year in the Shire – the weather has been great and the leaves changing colour are a reminder of time passing. There have been several key things happening in Council over the past fortnight, including the adoption of the c80hepb Planning Scheme Amendment on the 29th March at a Special Council Meeting. The Amendment now goes to the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, and the Minister for Planning for approval. There was a great deal of work put in by many community members, stakeholders and officers to get to this stage , which is an important first step in strategic planning work to guide development and land use planning and appropriate environmental protection including looking after our mineral springs and townships character. Councillors are continuing the process of appointing a permanent Chief Executive Officer. Councillors are aware of their responsibility to the community in making this critical decision and are pleased to report that we have had a lot of interest and a strong field of applicants. We have developed a short list and will start interviewing candidates in the next couple of weeks. We have finished gathering information from the community around the 4-year Council Plan and 10-year Council Vision and are now moving to the next stage. We have had nearly 200 applications for the Community Panel and 40 people have been randomly selected based on age groups, ward, gender and key demographics such as those who are parents, have English as a second language, identify as LGBTQIA+, live with a disability, or are non-resident property owners. This means that we will hear from a group of people who directly reflect the makeup of our community, and who have a diversity of views. This should help us to produce a Community Vision and Council Plan that reflects community sentiment. Many residents have suggested that Council work regionally to address some of the big issues facing us. You might be interested to know that Council officers and Councillors do this. We are part of two such groups -Loddon Campaspe Councils and Central Grampians Councils. The priorities for this year for Loddon Campaspe Councils to work on together include climate and renewable energy, regional planning and environmental sustainability, affordable and appropriate housing, transport connectivity, digital connectivity and waste and recycling. All issues that you, the community have identified as part of the Hepburn Together process. Enjoy the autumn season and the remainder of the Easter break and school holidays. Cr Lesley Hewitt MAYOR

CONTACTS 





General enquiries 5348 2306

Mail Email Website

PO Box 21, Daylesford 3460 shire@hepburn.vic.gov.au hepburn.vic.gov.au

Aged & disability services enquiries - 5345 8399

HEPBURN TOGETHER COMMUNITY PANEL

Thank you to the 193 people who put forward their name to participate in the panel. Members were selected at random and are a true reflection of our Shire across age groups, ward, gender and other demographics. We can’t wait to hear their ideas and diversity of views. Our new Hepburn Together Community Panel will meet for the first time this week. The panel is made up of 40 community members and is part of our commitment to deliberative engagement. Members will help to guide the ten-year Community Vision and four-year Council Plan. Find out more at https://participate.hepburn.vic.gov.au/hepburntogether.

COMMUNITY GRANTS The latest round of Community Grants is now open. If you’re a community group or organisation looking for funding for a new or oneoff event or program then look no further. Categories include Active and engaged communities, Quality community infrastructure (including small equipment), Sustainable environments, and Children’s program (specifically for 8 – 12 years). To apply, or find out more, visit www.hepburn.vic.gov.au/communitygrants-program/or call 03 5348 2306 and ask to speak with a Community Development Officer. Applications close on Monday 3 May 2021.

ANZAC DAY 2021 Anzac Day Commemorations will be held in Daylesford, Creswick/ Smeaton, Clunes and Trentham this year. All participants and spectators are required to pre-register their attendance prior for contact tracing purposes. Further event details and ticketing information is available at www. hepburn.vic.gov.au/join-anzac-day-commemorations

PROPOSED BUDGET KEY DATES Council will consider the 2021/2022 Proposed Budget at its meeting on Tuesday 20 April. The budget will then go on public display at https://participate. hepburn.vic.gov.au, with copies available at our customer service counters. Submissions will close in May and Council will consider the budget for adoption at a Council meeting in June. Follow Council on Facebook for the latest updates. For after hours emergencies please call:  Animal Control - 0419 587 955  Other Council Emergency - 0419 583 573 hepburncouncil

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Our legends 7

A century on, a dinkum digger’s medals glisten

LF Morrison of Yandoit was two months short of his 21st birthday when a bullet cut him down. Now, 104 years later, his nephew, 89-year-old Don Morrison, plans to wear replicas of Alf ’s medals at the Anzac Day service in Daylesford.

The two medals shine brilliantly on Don’s chest as he talks in his Yandoit home, with its glorious views of the countryside, including Mt Franklin. To say this is Morrison country is an understatement. The rough old road to the house bears the family name. The Morrisons got 80 hectares for dairy farming in the first land ballot of 1856. In his hand Don holds a strand of barbed wire. Mounted on it is a permanent replica of the Flanders Poppy, made by Robert, one of his two sons, which will go on the family grave in Franklinford Cemetery in memory of Alf. The barbed wire represents Alf ’s farming background and the brutality of war. The world in which Alf grew up is caught in the book Letters Home, edited by another uncle, the late Geoff Morrison. The letters, bound in red ribbon, had been in the hands of three family members. They show a world in which Alf and his brother Edgar, three years younger, roam the countryside, read and made up stories and games. Elder brother Frank was away working. In winter the pair would sometimes copy stories and even invented their own motto, in Latin, “They were never idle”. At 15, Alf was off picking grapes. Then he moved to general farm work, buying a rifle to shoot rabbits. A crack shot, he later pinged a hole in his grandparents’ metal weathervane, made by Yandoit blacksmith and store owner, George Fleischer. The weathervane was called Butzbach, from a town in the grandparents’ homeland, Germany. It was a savage blow when a WWI German bullet killed their grandson. Alf wrote home from Glenlyon where he was milking, then from Ballarat, Kyabram and Macorna, a hamlet 22kms from Kerang. Macorna, he records, played Kerang. “…the game was terribly fierce. Chas came home with two black eyes and he has to preach today. One of the Kerang men lost his temper and let him have both of them gratis…four Kerang girls were trying to polish off a Kerang barracker, also a girl and Taylor was trying to defend her while one of the Kerang girls gave him five or six uppercuts…” By January 1915 Alf is reading in The Argus newspaper about the Light Horse and had “a great craving” to join up, which he did the next year. In camp at Castlemaine he was happy when bugles arrived to replace cowbells. Alf is away when he and two other soldiers are farewelled at Franklinford with a social and reception, the evening ending with “For they are jolly good fellows”, Rule Britannia and the National Anthem. By December 1916 he is in London watching some bewhiskered warriors just out of the trenches “a shrapnel helmet strapped on their pack and one or two with a German helmet as well”. On Salisbury Plains he meets a bloke from Macorna. He has no complaints about the food: “Porridge, sausages and bacon for brek., soup and roasts for dinner, stew occasionally for tea, margarine and jam, or Golden Syrup and sometimes pudding.” Three days before Christmas he is in France where everyone is “anxious to do the dinkum thing”. The habit was to write your native town on your hatband for others from the district to see. Alf wrote Macorna. Bravery medals are handed out at a parade. One of his mates is killed. “How little we thought of such a thing when the three of us left Port Melb.” By March guns “are doing their best to break what windows are left” while he sleeps in a dugout “about the size of a kerosene case”. May sees him in Belgium watching “a complete stomacher” when a German plane is shot down after a dogfight. “No need to buy Deadwood Dicks for thrillers here anyway.”

Above, Don Morrison with son Robert, below, the poppy His final letter is dated May 17, 1917. “Everything looks beautifully fresh and green,” he writes, “and all sorts of garden flowers are sprouting up like grass…in spite of everything we always knock out a happy existence between ourselves and can always manage to laugh and joke over our hardships and disappointments.” A letter sent by Alf ’s mother from Clunes a fortnight later was returned. He died on Messines Ridge on the Western Front, held by the Germans for almost three years. In the early hours of the day before his death explosions erupted from 19 huge tunnels dug over two years under German positions. The noise was heard as far away as England. An estimated 10,000 Germans died. Anzac troops and the British attacked, with the loss of 7000 Australians and 5000 New Zealanders among the 26,000 casualties. The victory after the week-long battle, possibly Alf ’s first, is seen as one badly needed and a vivid if bloody example of the result of meticulous planning. Back in Yandoit, Don Morrison tells of the devastation the death brought to Alf ’s mother and the family. Missing in the letters is any account of Alf ’s four days absent without leave. Don believes he slipped away to Scotland to look once at his family’s old hometown in Aberdeenshire. A happy aspect of this story is the speed at which the replica medals were obtained, something that Don attributes to Trish Tinetti, unofficial secretary to her husband, Daylesford RSL president Ian. The original medals were somehow lost with the passing of the years and the fact that replicas could be obtained only became known during a chance conversation Don’s wife Joan had with a relative recently.

Words: Kevin Childs | Image: InkdFotogrfa

8 News

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A successful tennis season draws to a close

AYLESFORD Lawn Tennis Club's season started in October with Welcome Week, a week of free tennis activities.

Many new beginners joined the junior Hot Shot program and the Junior Club championships were played in great spirit with many new faces joining the honour roll.

Junior results

U/10 Girls Singles Winner Caitlin Leonard, Runner Up Sari Dodder U/10 Girls Doubles Winners Juliet Stockfeld & Sari Dodder, Runners Up Caitlin Leonard & Lily Aylward U/12 Girls Singles Winner Lola Santurini, Runner Up Olivia Righetti U/12 Girls Doubles Winners Eve Righetti & Lola Santurini, Runners Up Olivia Righetti & Grace Hetherington U/12 Boys Singles Winner Oscar Stone, Runner Up Riley Pender U/12 Doubles Winners Oscar Stone & Eve Righetti, Runners Up Max Aylward & Riley Pender U/14 Boys Singles Winner Oscar McLucas, Runner Up Adam Leonard U/14 Boys Doubles Winners Max Aylward & Riley Pender, Runners Up Ari & Manu Scheltema U/14 Girls Singles Winner Jessica Santurini, Runner Up Giselle Stewart U/14 Girls Doubles Winners Giselle Stewart & Jessica Santurini, Runners Up Olivia Righetti & Gracie Hetherington

'How-to' workshops

AYLESFORD Repair Cafe is starting a series of ‘how-to’ workshops so you can learn how to fix things.

A basic hand-sewing workshop will be held on Sunday, April 18 from 1.30pm-3.30pm at the Victoria Park Pavilion, Daylesford. People are invited to bring along an item of clothing in need of repair and learn how to fix it themselves. Tutor Jane Knight, pictured right offering her expertise, has been sewing since the age of five and has extensive experience in designing, creating, mending, building, sewing, upholstering, knitting and crocheting. Meanwhile, the Repair Cafe will be open on Sunday, April 18 from 1pm to 4pm, for people to see what else the team of fixers are capable of repairing. Enjoy a cuppa, cake and conversation. The cafe will also be starting its first ‘mending broken hearts’ table for those in need of some ‘tlc’. Details: Nikki Marshall on 0432 232 073 or Danny Kinnear on 0488 604 231. Link: www.facebook.com/ daylesfordrepaircafe/

Image: Mara Ripani

U/16 Girls Singles Winner 2021 Jessica Santurini, Runner up Olivia Leonard U/16 Boys Singles Winner Jayden Liversidge, Runner Up Oscar McLucas U/16 Boys Doubles Winners Adam Leonard & Riley White, Runners Up Jayden Liversidge & Finn Geurts In Senior Club championships past club champion Samuel Johnson returned to Daylesford and defeated Colin Welsh in a close one 7-6 2-6 7-6.

Colin Welsh and Damien Pree defeated Greg Malcher and Jeremy Harper 8-2 in the men’s doubles. Finally, the established partnership of Gabe Kirby and John Turnbull overcame Greg Malcher and Kathryn Miller in the mixed doubles 8-7. Women’s singles and doubles did not go ahead due to lack of interest.

Contributed: Trish Kevin (The Local loves local sport. Send it to news@ tlnews.com.au or upload to www.tlnews.com.au)

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Inspiring 9

Creating BOOM in Clunes to avoid a bust

HERE is something truly special about living in a smaller community. The sense of connectedness, caring and support, in good times and in bad, continues to live on in smaller communities across Australia, and it’s seen every day across the Macedon Ranges and Hepburn shires.

But when those hard times hit, and never as hard as we witnessed during the COVID pandemic, paving a way forward is now the challenge faced by all rural communities. When Clunes Neighbourhood House manager Lana de Kort, pictured, realised the COVID crisis would impact severely on her local community and the vital services provided by the centre, she not only ensured basic services and support would still be provided during the lockdown phases, but she and her committee also took the opportunity to accelerate their plans for the future of the town. And plan she did, with her team of volunteers and board members working tirelessly to implement BOOM – a community action program that aims to boost the town’s economic status and provide a secure environment for its residents. Lana said that working with local and visiting thinkers, Clunes Neighbourhood House identified that the creation of a space where community and business could work alongside each other to help nurture solid business behaviours and a healthy community - an ideal way of supporting a boom culture. "BOOM Clunes is a social enterprise with two objectives: one is to make money so we can all explore how new thinking and diversity can be financially viable in a small economy and the other is to help incubate others’ thinking so they can do the same in their business,” she said. “Even in good times, small towns can be vulnerable to the usual boom and bust cycles that tend to hit economies. Clunes is a community that typically punches above its weight. You can look back generations and see the careful progress that has been made to make Clunes as resilient as possible – from infrastructure decisions, to the preservation of our history and becoming a Booktown,” she said. "Nearly two years ago we came to the conclusion that to break out of a bust, or even head one off at the pass, small towns have to think – and act – differently. “At that time, COVID-19 wasn’t even something we could imagine, let alone plan for. But in some ways the pandemic has caused such a seismic disruption that it has accelerated our town’s need to take action.” Lana, a professional writer and former corporate manager, moved to Clunes with her husband and two boys a few years ago. Her role at the Clunes Neighbourhood House combines years of corporate experience with hands-on practical program implementation which has seen the Clunes Neighbourhood House thrive. “Clunes Neighbourhood House has long been interested in the role that community can play in tipping the scales towards a boom. Particularly a boom where the balance of focus encompasses all three markers of a strong and resilient system – community, economy and environment,” she said. “Working with local people, businesses and other community groups, our goal is to contribute to the liveability of Clunes by supporting everyone to be an active part of the neighbourhood.” In an average week, the centre has a team of 40. Lana believes the economic value of volunteer contributions each year is more than $600,000. BOOM Clunes is located in the old State Bank in Fraser Street and includes the shop, the business and employability centre, accommodation and an art studio and nursery in the garden. "Using lockdown wisely and clocking up more than a few Zoom hours we explored how our vision could be realised and last. BOOM Clunes was launched last month with the group opening a shop delivering on the Clunes brand. “We offer books – new and old, touches of gold with jewellery, collectibles and giftware. Even walking maps made by the community so visitors can get to know the town while the funds raised go straight back into the community.” The next phase of BOOM will see the business employability centre open upstairs and will offer serviced offices and membership to a co-working space. “We hope to encourage sole traders, businesses and those working from home to come and get a little bit of that ‘water cooler’ stimulation you miss when you don’t work in a big business or onsite. In the last census Hepburn Shire was identified as an entrepreneurship hotspot. We anticipate that many of these creatives, sole traders and business people will appreciate having a space within their shire where they can mix with others, get their work done and access basic facilities." But while a hive of activity is happening at the Clunes Neighbourhood House and BOOM Clunes, local residents will continue to enjoy the amazing services, free food initiative, delivered nightly meals once a week and a host of other programs and services that underpin the small but community-spirited and supportive township of Clunes. Words: Narelle Groenhout | Image: Supplied

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COVID-19 VACCINATIONS are taking place at our Daylesford site. Supplies are coming in regularly and we are holding weekend and evening clinics to work through the waiting lists. There is approximately a two week wait for your vaccination appointment once you register on our waiting list. WAITING LISTS ARE NOW OPEN FOR THE 2021 FLU VACCINE At this stage we do not have dates for when the vaccine will be available however as soon as supply is received, we will notify patients of their appointment time and date. To reserve your place on our waiting list for both COVID-19 and Flu vaccinations, book online or call our reception team. If you are already on our waiting list, we will send you an SMS or phone you to confirm your appointment time and date, so no need to contact us again.

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12 Crossword

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W RD

CROSS

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Here's the solution for Crossword 224. How did you go?

Celebrating 40 years of the Daylesford Sunday Market

AYLESFORD Sunday Market, at Daylesford Railway Station, celebrates its 40th anniversary on Sunday, April 18 - with plenty of fun for everyone.

It's also a celebration for the historic Daylesford Spa Country Railway - the reason the market started back on Sunday, April 19, 1981. Railway spokesperson Stuart Smithwick said it was a celebration of an important milestone in history. "The market concept was for it to be a fundraiser for the fledgling railway preservation group and while there were concerns it would not work, 40 years later it is bigger and better than it has ever been. "In the early days it was more car boot style, but always weekly, and it has continued to grow over the years not only increasing revenue for the railway, because we would not exist as we are without the market, but it's also a huge benefit to the community and a great tourism asset for Daylesford. "People come to the region, stay in their B&B, have breakfast on a Sunday and come to the market, it's just what you do here. And during COVID the market was a critical part of feeding people in Daylesford. It was amazing." Market manager Raoul Benedict said the celebrations would include a free petting zoo, free face painting, entertainment including from the Daylesford Secondary School band and a birthday cake. "Going forward the future is very bright. The market is always evolving. When I first started there was a lot more bric-a-brac and less local content but now we have a lot more produce and craft - although there will always be that car boot element." For those keen to add a train trip to their market visit, the historic trains run all day on Sundays to Bullarto, staffed only by volunteers. "Last Wednesday we also had trains running during the school holidays and had over 100 passengers so everyone is obviously enjoying it," Stuart said. "I would also like to acknowledge the hard work of the volunteers from those early days, establishing the market and all the managers we have had over the years, especially Bill McClenaghan, who was there week in and out, no matter the weather, just like Raoul. It's not easy having a 6.30am start, every Sunday of the year. "And we have some new volunteers now, which is great, along with the old guard who have been plugging away for such a long time." Stuart said a feasibility study was now under way for an extension of the rail to Trentham with "the right people saying the right things - so watch this space".

Words: Donna Kelly | Images: Kyle Barnes

"It has continued to grow over the years not only increasing revenue for the railway, because we would not exist as we are without the market, but it's also a huge benefit to the community and a great tourism asset for Daylesford." - Stuart Smithwick

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Above, from left, volunteers Ross Bullock, Ian Rowe, Gary Pallister, Stuart Smithwick, John Jeffkins and Raoul Benedict

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Bells Water Gardens @ Newlyn

Bells Water Gardens has been in the water garden business for over 25 years, building and maintaining ponds and growing a diverse range of aquatic plants for the nursery trade and public. We are passionate about building natural eco-system ponds, adding beauty and encouraging wildlife, allowing interaction with nature. Water gardens built by us are quiet, contemplative places to rest and energise the senses. Contact us for all your water garden requirements or come and see our nursery at 1 Campion Rd, Newlyn.

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Design

with Indre Kisonas

ALLED the Cathedral of the Wimmera, the Stick Shed is certainly impressive and well worth a drive to Murtoa, whose indigenous name means land of the lizard.

The good, the bad & the hungry! There is a botanic battleground happening in our own backyards. Behind the peaceful facade of our gardens lurk many constant and deadly battles for survival. Often, but fortunately not always, the casualties are the plants themselves. The battles are constant and the participants many and varied, and not always the “bad guys”. In fact, it’s often hard to tell the difference and how to help the cause for good, other than to let nature take its course, in case you eliminate the wrong team.

A bug's life

Among the plethora of leaping, flying and crawling little beasties that populate our homes or gardens, it’s more than likely that beneficial and predatorial ones would outweigh the nasties. Even bush, and blow flies unwittingly assist at pollination time, along with the bees, in their search for nectar. Apart from those obnoxious European invaders, most other wasp varieties larvae feed on the young of other insects as do many spiders, centipedes, earwigs and preying mantis. The little black- and yellow-striped hoverfly, true its to name, hover in little swarms feeding on nectar and pollen. Their larvae eat aphids and scale insects, and cannibalise grubs and caterpillars. (A charming technique favoured by some species is to inject their eggs into live grubs to feed their maggots). Even cute little ladybugs’ young are voracious aphid eaters. Almost all of these, in adult form, feed on the nectar and pollen of flowering herbs, vegetables and, of course, flowering annuals, perennials, shrubs and trees. So they obviously are attracted to and thrive in healthy, well-tended gardens, earning their keep by not only propagating our fruit and vegetable crops but by policing the critter population. Slaters. Apparently we shouldn’t be too tough on those little grey, shield-like critters. While scurrying around in the dank and mouldy underworld of our life they are also prone to feasting on mould and fungal outcrops.

Good flies?

Yes, I’ve actually discovered some. The robber fly is a huge, world-wide family of asilidae - predator flies with huge appetites for whatever insect that happens to blunder or flutter by. I shot this particular specimen sunning itself in our garden room, after it was munching on an obviously unwary blowfly. Big and ugly, they have been known to reach up to 8cm in length. This one would have been at least 4cm. Also known as assassin flies, they can immobilise and eat wasps, dragonflies, grasshoppers and even spiders. Like birds of prey they perch themselves where they can see and catch their prey in mid-air, gripping them with their strong legs, then injecting them with a toxic saliva which paralyses and liquidises the body tissue.

Gastropods - all foot and stomach

This current spell of warmth and steady rains has brought with it hordes of the oldest of garden pests, snails. Belonging to the mollusc family, they have one large foot attached to their stomach, hence the name. They slide along on this “foot” in the cool of night, usually when there’s moisture about and gorge themselves on any available succulent young growth. During long dry spells, they find a nice sheltered private spot and merely withdraw into their shell to hibernate until the next rains bring them back out again. There must be plenty of ways of getting rid of snails, apart from the old hobnail rubber boot method. I’m sure you share my distaste for anything harmful to us or our pets. So, let’s hear your favourite household remedies. Mine is the good old “beer trap” glass jar with several centimetres of beer in the bottom buried up to its neck in the garden bed. They easily find their way in but can’t get out again even if they wanted to! What a way to go. For the next issue I’d like to hear your favourite methods.

Email glenzgarden@gmail.com

The shed was dug out and built by hand in 1941, during the WWII wheat glut. It took four months to complete and it spans the length of five Olympic swimming pools, that's about 270m long, 60m wide and 19m high along its ridge. Exports were restricted at this time, crop yields had improved and 1941 had a bumper crop season. Burlap and hessian bags were in short supply so bulk grain solutions were needed. Many vertical concrete silos were constructed by railway sidings in the Wimmera and Mallee, but these were soon full. More bulk storage was needed, and Murtoa was chosen as the site due to its central location. This was wartime and steel was also in short supply. So was labour. A call out for anybody available was made and men came when and if they were able. This was coming up to summertime, September to January and temperatures inside the construction site were often close to 40 degrees. Unmilled logs were used as the natural construction alternative to steel supports. Men scaled the logs to secure them. Wheelbarrow loads of concrete for the flooring make an almost flagstaff mosaic underfoot. Tall lofty timbers braced by minimal steel rod makes the structure appear like a soaring woodland cathedral. Row upon row of trees so tall it makes you wonder at the forests we never saw. The shed’s unique shape sits as the shape a pile of wheat would make. A corrugated iron skin protects the steam-powered elevator and conveyor belt, a 1.6 hectare concrete floor and 3,381,600 bushels of wheat. The grain was deposited by hopper below the railway line and lifted by the elevators to the conveyor belt that ran the length of the shed, along the apex and could deposit wheat at any point along the belt. The shed was emptied by a full-length side conveyor belt back to the railway line. This unique architectural building was a response in a time of need and Australians are always good at being inventive with what they have at hand. The architect is unknown, but the building is now included on the National Heritage List. It is the largest surviving timber-framed structure and the only one of its type left in Victoria. It is synonymous with the region’s wheat history and fundamental to Victoria’s cultural identity. I happened upon this shed by chance as I was travelling home from a work weekend and I am very happy I did. I would recommend driving out of your way for a unique gander and possibly a pie and beer in Murtoa. Regional Victoria will thank you for your support too.

Indre Kisonas - owner and principal designer - iok design indre@iokdesign.com.au / www.iokdesign.com.au

16 Advertorial

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Great new home for Courtot Automotive

OURTOT Automotive has settled into its new home at 3 Mink Street, Daylesford and it's pretty much "business as usual", according to mechanic Shane Pedretti.

The business, started by Shane's cousin Mick Courtot, is well known and has been around for 10 years, operating from a service station on the Midland Highway on the way to Ballarat. The station was sold last year and Courtot Automotive made the move to new purpose-built premises. "We moved here in September last year and it's just been going great. COVID didn't affect us at all and we have had so much support from local people with the move," Shane said. "Everyone we had moved with us and we also have new customers finding us in Mink Street. "The great thing is that this building was purpose-built and so we can do far more than we could, and mechanically it is 100 per cent better. "We have bought new hoists and scan tools - one of our biggest innovations which means we can talk to all the brand new cars coming in. And along with the mechanics we do pretty much everything else like tyres, batteries..." There is also a new tow truck on hand with an after hours service available. Put that in your phone now - 0438 375 731! Courtot Automotive is also keen to keep locals and family employed with not one but two apprentices, Carly Elderfield, a Daylesford local, and Shane's son, Billy. Daughter Zoe Pedretti keeps the front office running smoothly. And with borders really opening up, it may be worth booking in for a service before taking off on the great Australian drive, says Shane. "We have had quite a few people calling lately, especially over Easter, asking us to take a look at their car to make sure it's running at its best. A lot of cars have been pretty idle over COVID and things like oil do lose their viscosity if they are not used regularly. It's absolutely worth a once-over. Other than that, we are just business as usual here."

Courtot Automotive, 3 Mink St, Daylesford, 5348 3167 Open Monday to Friday 8.30am–5.30pm After hours tow service: 0438 375 731

COURTOT AUTOMOTIVE MECHANICS Friendly and reliable service. Come down and chat to our friendly staff. VEHICLE SERVICES MECHANICAL REPAIRS COMPUTER SCANNING TYRE REPLACEMENTS PUNCTURE REPAIRS AUTOELEC 10am WEDNESDAYS

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Out & About

18 Out & About

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CWA Creative Arts

HE CWA Central Highlands Group Creative Arts Exhibition is back with a bang for 2021. It will be held at the Masonic Centre at 7 Yaldwyn Street, Kyneton on Saturday, April 17 and Sunday, April 18, from 10am to 4pm. The announcement of winners and presentation of trophies will take place at 1.30pm on Sunday. It wouldn't be a CWA event without home-style catering and this year the Macedon and Kyneton branches will be cooking up a storm providing lunch along with morning and afternoon teas. The Kyneton Twilighters evening branch will be selling baked treats, preserves and hand-made items across the weekend. And there will be a raffle. Entry is $5 with children under-16 free.

Pizzeria

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Little Gallery reopens

RENTHAM'S artist-run Little Gallery is expanding and coming home to its original 32B High Street premises after defying COVID lockdown odds which have badly affected much of the arts industry.

Rose Wilson, one of the artists who helped found the gallery nine years ago, said the gallery was grateful for the outstanding support of the town and the region, particularly during Melbourne's long 2020 lockdown. "COVID's stressful year saw people embracing art in a different way, seeing art as a necessity and treating themselves after constant lockdowns and isolation," she said. "Many galleries featuring fine art were closed for up to five months, some commercial galleries have suffered greatly." Rose said like many businesses, Little Gallery was forced to adapt and make do, as even their workshops had ceased, so having a more online presence seemed to elevate some of the stress of no income and the support of the locals was a godsend. "COVID's threat was part of a potential double whammy for Little Gallery's artists, as they were forced to move out of their established, quirky High Street premises in a former motor garage 18 months ago when that building closed for renovations. The reno turned into a longer than expected complete rebuild when the old building's foundations were found to be unstable. "We were originally disappointed the old mechanics' Dashwood garage facade couldn't be saved, but are delighted the new structure blends into our quaint, historical little town's streetscape - which is what the owners wanted. "We have the best of both worlds as inside it is beautifully designed with natural light streaming through its large windows from the north, just perfect for a gallery”. The gallery reopens on Sunday, April 18 from 10.30am to 4.30pm. Permanent Little Gallery artists Rose, Helen Cottle, Ri Van Veen and Kim Haughie have been joined by two new artists, Trentham painter Llael McDonald and Kyneton sculptor Larissa Gray. Local consignment artists Ruby Wilson-Pierce, Sam Bloomfield, Dianne Longley, Liz Archer and Anneke Hoekstra will also have their work featured.

5348 4123 | 24 Albert St Daylesford | pizzerialaluna.com.au

Let’s support our community and shop local! “Locals supporting Locals”

Restaurants, Bakers, Butchers, Cafe’s, Local vineyards, Distillers, Brewers and of course each other.

Remember we offer free delivery, T&Cs apply. Delivery times are Monday to Saturday between 10am and 4pm. We accept credit cards over the phone or we have an on-board eftpos machine. You will need to be at home for the delivery with proof of age if asked by the driver. Give the Foxxy team a call on 5348 3577. Keep safe, everyone.

Advertise here. 0416 104 283

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Dine review 19

New dinner menu on offer at Chaplin's

ULIET and I had the pleasure of sampling Chaplin's new dinner menu last Monday week. I brought my wife along, not only for the chance to catch up on everything that gets missed in the conveyor belt of day-today life, but also for the expert palate she acquired as a professional chef.

It's so good to get back to our great state's favourite pastime of heading out to sample quality food and beverages. We shucked our lockdown trackies in favour of our (now slightly dusty) evening wear and made the short but beautiful forest-laden drive from Daylesford to Trentham. The first building you see coming into the main drag is the stately little building that houses one of my favourite cafes - now with a bar menu on Monday nights, Chaplin's. The name's a dead giveaway. The theme throughout is that of Charlie Chaplin's quirk and humour, carried in spades by its proprietor Mel Thomas. (That's Mel, below right, in Chaplin mode.) I've spent decades working in the hospitality industry and Mel's a great owner/ operator. Her customer focus and eye for detail; from the art throughout to the presentation of the delicious fare, ambient lighting and the cleanliness of the amenities, is just so enjoyable and comforting after living in relative isolation. Enough preamble, on to the main event, the food. Juliet and I weren't ravenous so we shared an entree of grilled saganaki with crisp leaves and pickled walnut, while situated in a comfy banquette. As a long-term lover of saganaki, the addition of pickled walnut was a revelation to Juliet and me. Acidity has always been the key to cutting through the fats in the cheese, so why not use pickle as the balancer? Then there's the earthiness of the walnut for an added dimension. Mel may not have invented this dish, but it was a first for me and I'll be back for more. On to mains. Mel's partner crafts some excellent vegan meat alternatives and Juliet was keen to try the vegan beef patty with avocado, tomato, red onion, bio cheese and spicy orange mayo, on a vegan brioche. Not being vegan ourselves, we approached with unfounded caution. Until now, no-one's nailed the texture of meat for me but this was bang on. Honestly, biting into it for the first time was a little surreal. If you're a vegan, this is the Monday night dining spot for you without a doubt. For myself, I'm always up for a good seafood chowder. This is so rarely on the menu in our neck of the woods, I had to try it. The seafood was fresh and not overpowering, with plenty of variety. The soup was the hero (as it should be), with its sweetness derived more from whole orange than lemon. This was another delightful first for me, and I was left impressed and satisfied. With entrees from $14 and mains from around $21 to $25 for the most part, it's very reasonable. Drinks. We were both in the mood for an ale, and Little Creatures brewery is a reliable go-to. We shared a plum torte for dessert. Perfection. A caramelised gluten-free base and plump local plums won our hearts at $9.50. I had one of Mel's excellent espressos while Juliet loved her tea. Bookings are preferred, and I suggest you make one ASAP, whether you like meat or you're all over vegan/vego good times.

Words & images: Henry Maxwell

SUNDAY Breakfast & Lunch 9am - 3pm MONDAY -THURSDAY 7.30am - 3pm Dinner - 5pm - late

(03) 5424 1277 | 2/22 High Street, Trentham

Bookings Welcome!

20 Out & About

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Feast for Freedom

FEAST for Freedom will see the community come together to support refugees.

The event is being hosted by Rural Australians for Refugees Daylesford and will be held at the Victoria Park Pavilion, Daylesford on Friday, April 23 from 6.30pm to 9.30pm. The feast will consist of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine prepared by RARD members and supporters. The cost is $35 per head with the numbers capped and bookings essential. Spokesperson Judy Harris said the proceeds would go to organisations such as the Asylum Seekers Resource Centre, who assist refugees, particularly those recently released from detention. "Already the ASRC has provided $68,000 in support to the 68 men and women recently released into the community, via a $1000 Eftpos card per person. A recent successful Daylesford garage sale organised by RARD contributed to this, raising more than $2000. But more funds are needed to support the remaining 120-plus people when they are released into the community."

Bookings and queries: judyharris@gmail.com

A PUB FOR THE LOCALS Come in, grab a drink and be local. Join us for STEAK NIGHT every Thursday $25 and our locals’ favourite SUNDAY NIGHT ROAST $25.

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Saturday

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8 Camp St - Daylesford | 03 5348 2130 | www.daylesfordbowlingclub.com.au Stay updated on the latest events by visiting our website or Facebook page - to avoid disappointment bookings are appreciated

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Markets

Daylesford Sunday Market – every Sunday Wesley Hill Market - every Saturday Trentham Neighbourhood Centre Makers Market - first Saturday Woodend Farmers Market - first Saturday Creswick Market - first Saturday Castlemaine Artists Market – first Sunday Trentham Community Group Market - second Saturday Kyneton Farmers Market - second Saturday Ballan Farmers Market - second Saturday Kyneton Rotary Community Market – second Saturday Maldon Market – second Sunday Clunes Farmers Market - second Sunday Trentham Farmers Market and Makers Market - third Saturday Glenlyon Farmers Market – third Saturday Leonards Hill Market - third Saturday Creswick Market - third Saturday Malmsbury Farmers Market - third Sunday Talbot Farmers Market – third Sunday Woodend Lions Market - third Sunday Daylesford Rotary Farmers Market - fourth Saturday Trentham Station Sunday Market - fourth Sunday Buninyong Village Market - fourth Sunday

Out & About 21

Gig Guide Palais-Hepburn, Hepburn Springs

Supper Club with Paige Duggan & Wayne Parker - Thursday, April 15 The Chantoozies - Saturday, April 17 Sallie Harvey - Thursday, April 22 Andy Vening Hypnosis Comedy Show - Friday, April 23 Bluetone Assembly - Saturday, April 24 Thirsty Friday presents Gaymes Night - Friday, April 30 A Queer Soiree, Last Friday of every Month. Guildford Hotel, Guildford Guildford Folk Club - Thursday, April 15, 6.30pm Mick Coates & The Shallow Gravediggers - Friday, April 16, 7pm The Hornets - Saturday, April 17, 7pm 3 Chord Club - Sunday, April 18, 1pm Django Lingo - Thursday, April 22, 6pm The Cartwheels - Friday, April 23, 7pm The Great Unknown - Saturday, April 24, 7pm Original Words - Sunday, April 25, 1pm Quiz Night - Thursday, April 29, 6pm Ade Ishs eMotion Band - Friday, April 30, 7pm All gigs correct at time of publication. Check with venue for full details. Got a gig happening? Email news@tlnews.com.au or post it, no charge, on our website at www.tlnews.com.au

Hanging Rock Market

PLDA AUSTRALIA PRESENTS

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Saturday, April 24 9am-2pm Parking $5 Makers handmade market - arts, crafts and food

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Finest handmade rugs collection in Daylesford. 1/52 A Vincent Street Daylesford (Next to Coles) Phone: 5301 8002 Opening times: Friday - Monday 11.30am - 4.30pm Wednesday. 11.30am - 4.30pm

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CHOOK RUN

Saturday, April 24 Hyline Brown (ISA Brown) chooks, beautiful, 23 weeks old. Sexed and vaccinated. Delivering to Ballan, Bacchus Marsh & Melton. Please phone or text Kelvin on 0400 559 559 for a time and meeting place. Like us - Ballarat Chooks Facebook information page.

Lest We Forget

Anzac Day services Creswick Creswick pre-registrationsat https://www.trybooking.com/BPZQM 5.45am - Dawn Service - Cenotaph, Albert Street 6.15am - Gunfire Breakfast at Rotunda, Albert Street 9.30am - Wreath laying, Soldier’s Section, Creswick Cemetery. 9.45am - Wreath laying, RSL Hall Memorial Stones 10.15am - Assemble for March, Creswick Splash Park, Albert Street 10.30am - March Step Off, Creswick Splash Park, Albert Street 10.45am - Anzac Day Service, Cenotaph

Daylesford Daylesford pre-registrations at https://www.trybooking.com/BQAVT 5.50am - Dawn Service, Cenotaph 10.30am - Parade from Vincent Street to the Cenotaph for the service.

Clunes Clunes pre-registrations at https://www.trybooking.com/BPZRF

6am - Dawn Service, Cenotaph 8.30am - Cemetery Commemoration Service 10.45am - March and wreath laying - Fraser Street to the Cenotaph.

Trentham Trentham pre-registrations at https://www.trybooking.com/BQEWS 6am - Dawn Service, Cenotaph 11am - Service and wreath laying

Phone pre-registratons: Hepburn Shire Council on 5348 2306.

The Daylesford Cemetery Grave Digger / Maintenance / Caretaker We are seeking a Grave digger/Maintenance/Caretaker for a part-time position for the Daylesford Cemetery. Maintenance/caretaker hours can be flexible days, approx 16 hours per week. Grave digger/Funeral set up hours would be on demand with a small amount of flexibility - Approx 4-6 hours per week. Would suit a person who likes to work outside and independently. Training provided.

Key Responsibilities Maintenance / Care Taker On-going maintenance of the grounds and gardens - including burial lawns and memorial gardens, headstones and plots. Basic knowledge to use machinery associated with maintenance of grounds including ride on mowers, tractors or other equipment as required. Tractors/ bobcat knowledge would be an advantage but not essential. Weed and pest control.

Grave Digger Preparing grave sites and ashes sites for the internment of deceased persons. Preparing grave sight prior to a burial including climbing into the plot, some digging, and ensuring the grave is shaped and measured correctly. Prepare lowering machines and the grave site for funeral service. Pack down after funeral service - filling in of graves and maintenance of the area. Some medium to heavy weight lifting of equipment, climbing of ladder and digging (so you will need to be reasonably fit). Preparing the sight for stonemasons - levelling and garden maintenance. Whilst performing the above duties, you may be required to work around coffins, ashes, grieving families and distressed clients which may be challenging for potential applicants

If you are interested please contact Alicia Kay - Secretary, Daylesford Cemetery 0478 803 170 or email daylesfordcemetery@gmail.com

24 Opinion

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Just briefly

Just sayin’... By Donna Kelly

NYONE would have to say last year the tribe spoke and kicked out CENTRAL Highlands Rural Health is running a three-week virtual reality the majority of Hepburn Shire councillors. Only Creswick Ward's Cr program for young people who live in the Creswick area, aged 12 to 14 years. Funded by the Community Bank Creswick & District, the program aims to Don Henderson remained of the seven incumbents. It was a time for a new era and in fact, the It's Time slogan, would have been quite appropriate. enhance physical activity levels by entering a virtual world full of fun and interactive The new councillors made it very clear it was time for community engagement, consultation and transparency. And that could only be a good thing. I remember Kyle coming home one day while working at the council in the old days saying he and a manager had been to Hepburn to "consult" over some tourism signage. But all they had done was drive to where the sign was to be erected, met with the community and returned to the town hall. Consultation done. I kid you not. So I was interested when Hepburn Shire Council called for people to join the Hepburn Together Community Panel. Disclaimer, I even put my hand up. "Why, Donna?" I hear you ask. I just thought after being here 15 years, being across lots of issues, being pretty well networked, running three publications with the aim of talking up the region, and actually really wanting to see the shire move forward, I would be a pretty good fit. I didn't make it - and that is OK. But I was interested to see who was on the panel. They are, after all, informing decisions on our behalf. The media release came last week. In it, Mayor Cr Lesley Hewitt said the council was impressed by the enthusiasm and interest from people to join the panel and help to guide the direction of the 10-year Community Vision and four-year Council Plan. "We really appreciate the effort that people have made, and we thank all 193 people who applied to join the panel. The Hepburn Together Community Panel is, to the best of our ability, a true reflection of the shire’s population. We selected panel members randomly based on age groups, ward, gender and key demographics such as those who are parents, have English as a second language, identify as LGBTQIA+, live with a disability, and more." Panel members will take part in three facilitated sessions this month. So, who is stepping up to help plan for the shire's future? Well, according to the demographics, there are six 0-19 years old, five 20-39 years old, 13 40-59 years old, 15 60-79 years and 1 80+ years old. There are 22 females and 18 males. There are nine from Birch, six from Cameron, five from Coliban, 13 from Creswick and five from Holcombe. There is also one ratepayer outside the shire and one who works or "participates" in the shire. OK, interesting, especially those six in the 0-19 years old range. Hmmm. Really? Oh well, I know youth need a say but I am hoping they are closer to the 19 mark than the zero. But, who are they all? I called back and asked for names but no, that's a privacy issue. People who have put their hand up to be on a community forum to inform council cannot be named. Of course not. Engagement tick, consultation tick, transparency not so much. Just sayin'...

video games and activities. Registrations are essential. Limited spaces available. Details: www.surveymonkey.com/r/GYMVBQM

COMMUNITY groups and organisations are encouraged to apply to Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s grants programs including the Community Funding Scheme and the Events & Festivals Grant Program for 2021-22. Applications close 5pm, Monday, May 3. Under COVID-19 recovery support the council is providing $80,000 in additional grants streams to support local community groups during the pandemic. Up to $5000 is available to eligible not-for-profit groups or organisations. Meanwhile, the Community Funding Scheme provides funds to not-for-profit community groups for initiatives in the areas of community strengthening, arts and culture, sport, recreation, festivals and events, and the environment. The Events and Festivals Grant Program assists groups and organisations seeking funding and/or in-kind support for events and festivals within the shire.

THE Friends of Park Lake Creswick are planning an environmental and cultural event on Sunday, April 18 to mark 160 years since the Colonial Government of Victoria granted the land to the people of Creswick for development as a botanical reserve.

Planned activities for the event, from 11am to 3pm, include a Dja Dja Wurrung Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony at 11.30am, historical photo display, community tree planting, a barbeque and sharing of a birthday cake. Any queries to Thea Laidlaw at thealaidlaw@yahoo.com or 0476 274 694.

HEPBURN Shire Council is extending the proposed Clunes and Creswick free community Wi-Fi project to Daylesford and Trentham.

The 2016 Census found that the number of dwellings without internet is higher in Hepburn Shire than the state and national average. More than 40 per cent of homes in the shire are not connected to the internet. The Hepburn Shire Free Community Wi-Fi project will provide Creswick, Clunes, Daylesford and Trentham main street areas with free 24/7 access to Wi-Fi. This resource aims to allow community members, who would otherwise not be able to access online services, to do so. The Wi-Fi is available from June 30.

services LAND CAPABILITY ASSESSMENT SEPTIC servicesSYSTEM INSPECTION & MAINTENANCE PERIODIC INSPECTION AND REPORTING OF WASTEWATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS TROUBLESHOOTING AND MAINTENANCE SUPERVISION OF SLUDGE PUMP-OUT LATEST SLUDGE-JUDGE TECHNOLOGY AUTHORISED TAYLEX SERVICE AGENT

WISH MOVING HOUSE WAS THIS EASY? No matter if you are moving into the area for the first time, moving to the big smoke or just moving across town - we will take care of you and your prized possessions like its our own home we are moving. Locally owned and operated, Oz Trans are the leading local removalist and general transport specialists in the entire Daylesford and Central Highlands region for over 25 years. • Home, piano and commercial removals • House packing services • Sensitive freight • All kinds of art cared for

www.sanae-svcs.com.au

PO Box 1040, Daylesford, VIC 3460 koos.hulst@sanae-svcs.com.au (03) 5348 6620 or 0437 747 619

FREIGHT · TRANSPORT · RE MOVA LS DAY L ESFO R D AND CENT R AL HIGH LAN DS

• Furniture deliveries (new & second-hand) • General freight and produce cartage • Bulk freight, dry and chilled • Packing supplies available CALL JASON 0407 697 877 WWW.OZ-TRANS.COM.AU

REGULAR RUNS TO MELBOURNE, GEELONG, BALLARAT, BENDIGO AND EVERYWHERE IN-BETWEEN.

www.tlnews.com.au

Opinion 25

Kyle’s Rant

HAT a whirlwind time it’s been with paracetamol falling down the medical stairs of trust to be branded a placebo, and now the federal government declaring that AstraZeneca be not administered for under 50 year olds, due to blood clot concerns.

I must admit to feeling a little twinge of paranoia when I heard this news, wondering as a 53-year-old man if I was being led down the garden path like a lamb to the slaughter or in my case a ram to the, well, you know. Maybe I have done my best work in society and it is time to get experimental Frankenstein-style with those of us in the community who can no longer run as fast as we used to. But after digesting the information I am still keen to get this shit show over and get a jab alongside normal life returning. I must admit the other night it was refreshing here at TL HQ to be once again under the Melbourne airport flight path. It has been a long time since I have heard the distant jumbos roar overhead as they line up for the Melbourne airport lights from 20,000 feet above my head. It does, in the words of Marie Kondo, “spark joy”. By the way whatever happened to her, that tiny little neat-freak rubbish remover who would commit acts of junk deportation from the hoarder society, leaving them mentally shaken and teary-eyed as she cut through their treasure-trove of clutter like a Samurai sword? It was all OK for her to turn up at good, clean American families' homes, which admittedly were a little chock-a-block with years of collateral, and reduce these poor simple folk to nervous wrecks as she committed to robbing them of their life’s custody, all based around the question of “does this spark joy?". (And why is it when the rich hoard, they are called eccentric, while if the poorer do it, it's hoarding. Surely one man's treasure and all that?) But back to my inoculation point. Surely if it isn’t totally safe and we are only bringing good clean folk into our country, who have had a jab and then isolate for 14 days, we can wait until we get something in our arms with a 100 per cent strike rate and no kill rate? Or has the government gone too far down the investment rabbit hole with the Melbourne company turning out this half-baked antidote? And is this whole fiasco playing into the hands of the anti-vaxxers? Shit show rant over..

PALMER STEVENS & RENNICK Barristers & Solicitors Property and Conveyancing Criminal Law Family Law Wills and Estates Commercial Law Employment Law Appearing in all Courts PLEASE CONTACT US

(03) 5422 6500 SINCE 1852

8 Jennings Street, Kyneton Email - psr@psr.net.au | Website - psr.net.au

TRENTHAM PETROL & ..................................... STUFF Petrol, oil, swap & go gas, Motorpass, farm produce, farm produce store, ice, milk, soft drinks, take away pies, coffee, confectionery, local honey, etc Rusty junk, secondhand books, old wares

.................................................. 1 Market Street ~ ph: 5424 1611

Monday–Sunday 8aM~6pM

7 acres of well organised, easy to navigate, recycled goodness in the heart of castlemaine.

Salvage Yard

Structural timbers, hundreds of doors and windows, landscaping timbers, ex-commercial double glazed glass, steel, masonry and found objects... right down to hard to find hardware and homewares! Now also supplying a range of small production, sustainably sourced new timbers for flooring, decking, overlay and cladding. Also, manufacturers of custom designed engineered trusses from recycled timbers. 6 Lewis Drive Castlemaine • 0435 500 112 • www.thesalvageyard.com.au

Support your local tradies!

Consulting in Administration & Management Book-keeping Administration Payroll Temp service Supplier monthly reconciliation Qualified to manage a small team of office workers

Hepburn Earthworks

Drives, drains, moving dirt, excavation, $400 half day $750 full day man and machine. Caterpillar Bobcat, excavator and Dual Roller. Phone: 0438 662 203

Christ Jules Services Julie Hanson 0459 619 701 julphil.hanson@gmail.com www.christjulesservices.com.au

Ph:0434 357 882

Daylesford Newsagency & Tattslotto Newspapers, magazines, Tattslotto, dry-cleaning, stationery, photocopying and lots more... 55 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2061

PLASTERER DAYLESFORD FIBROUS PLASTER WORKS (MACKLEY’S) • NEW HOMES • RENOVATIONS • CEILING ROSES • ORNAMENTAL CORNICE Daylesford

Peter Mackley 5348 3085 or 0418 571 331 Gary Mackley 5348 1108

Are you a tradie? Advertise here. 5348 7883 Clement F Mooney

Email: c.mooney@bigpond.net.au Available to assist with all general accounting services and preparation/electronic lodgment of Tax Returns and BAS for Individuals, Sole Traders, Partnerships, Trusts and Companies.

A.B.N. 37 961 487 978

Certified Practising Accountant Registered Tax Agent B.Com, C.P.A., M.B.A.

Tel: 03 5424 1441 Mobile: 0412 584 555

trenthamselfstorage@outlook.com

Office: 19 Albert Street, Trentham 3458

DAYLESFORD APPLIANCE SERVICE

das3460@bigpond.com

Servicing commercial refrigeration domestic and commercial air conditioning

electrical appliance repair service washer, dryer, fridge, dishwasher, oven, cook top etc. Call Kiyo on

0419 267 685

das3460@bigpond.com

Sales-Service-Maintenance-Installation -Mobile coolroom hire Garry Rodoni: 0417 734 206 Chris Milham: 0436 402 730

Servicing the local community for over 45 years

Phone: 5348 1291

Malone Tree Services Liam Malone . Limited Access . Fully Insured .Specialists Qualified . Mulching Available

0423 945 436

E L E C T R I C I A N

John Roberts Electrical Services REG 15644

Domestic Commercial Industrial Mobile 0439 682 619

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