December 18, 2023 Issue 295 So this is Christmas?
The Local - The Heart of the Highlands
2 About Us
www.tlnews.com.au
Front cover: Christmas means many things to many people, so here is our Christmas cover, hopefully covering everything. Wishing you a wonderful silly season and a happy and healthy 2024. Back out January 1. Oh, you may or may not recognise some of these characters...
December 18, 2023 Issue 295 So this is Christmas?
The Local is a fortnightly community publication covering the Central Highlands of Victoria. The next edition is out on Monday, January 1, 2024. or online on Sunday, December 31 at www.tlnews.com.au Space bookings: Wednesday, December 27 Copy deadline: Thursday, December 28 Editorial deadline: Thursday, December 28
Image: @Inkd Fotogrfa
General manager: Kyle Barnes on 0416 104 283 or kyle@tlnews.com.au Editor: Donna Kelly on 0418 576 513 or news@tlnews.com.au The Local - The Heart of the Highlands
Editorial: Eve Lamb on 0493 632 843 or editorial@tlnews.com.au Sub-editors: Nick Bunning, Lindsay Smith & Chester the Cat
The Local is a registered trademark of The Local Publishing Group Pty Ltd.
Writers: Eve Lamb, Kevin Childs, Tony Sawrey, Jeff Glorfeld, Narelle Groenhout, Simone Kaplan & Donna Kelly
The Local is a member of the Victorian Country Press Association, with editor Donna Kelly, a former director.
Photographers: Kyle Barnes & Eve Lamb
Want to support local, quality journalism? Donate by scanning the QR code. 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.
Graphic designer: Dianne Caithness Contributors: Glen Heyne (gardening), Darren Lowe (music), Sarah Lang & Richard Cornish (recipes), Clive Hartley (wine) & Bill Wootton (poetry) Accounts | Julie Hanson
Delivery | Tony Sawrey
What a Trooper
They’re a lively and character-packed lot, the dogs of Trentham, and not least among them is Trooper the kelpie. Owned by a resident, Trooper is famous – or infamous some might say – as quite the lad about town and, most recently, also as the front cover pin-up boy on the new calendar produced by Dogs of Trentham. DOT is the enthusiastic group of local dog lovers and owners who have been working with Hepburn Shire Council to establish a permanent off-leash dog park. In December 2022 group members were delighted that the council upgraded the reserve in Trentham’s Market Street, erecting fencing and gates to provide the community with two trial off-leash dog areas. The trial has proven very successful with increasing numbers of locals and visitors using the facility, and last year DOT supported its efforts by releasing a fundraising Dogs of Trentham calendar. Following hot on the success of last year, they’ve now released a new calendar for 2024 featuring a whole new line-up of photographic pooches. Trentham photographer James Walshe is a DOT committee member and dedicated dog owner who has taken the photographic images that feature in the new calendar. Trooper was an obvious choice for the front as he is such a local identity, due to his frequent solo sojourns about town, DOT committee members say. Among them, Trentham’s Cynthia Goudie has attached an air tag to Trooper’s collar so that he can be tracked down using a phone-based app, and safely collected when out and about on one of his community strolls.
“He’s a bit like Red Dog. He’s a real Houdini,” says Cynthia who’s even created a social media narrative featuring Trooper and his frequently humorous tales and adventures. Suffice to say these have gained a significant fan following. “The whole community knows him and he’s become a community dog,” Cynthia says. “He’s a bit of an icon in town and he tends to take himself into town for a wander,” James says. Proceeds from sales of the new calendars will help DOT continue its work toward realising the dream of a larger, permanent space for dogs, and also go to further enhancing the current Market Street dog park. James and Cynthia say proceeds will also be directed to other good dog-related deeds like training up a “reading dog” to help local school students who may need an extra hand to get ahead with their studies. “The dog park is about much more than just a space to toss a ball around for the dogs,” says James. “It’s also very much about a space for humans to interact and has certain mental health benefits as well.” The $20 calendar may be obtained via DOT’s Facebook page or by picking up a copy at the Trentham Post Office or the Community Bank Trentham & Districts.
Above, Trentham’s Cynthia Goudie with Trooper the kelpie who features on the front cover of the new Dogs of Trentham Calendar 2024, with photographer James Walshe. Words & images: Eve Lamb
Christmas Trading Hours:
We wish you a Merry Christmas, our Spirit to yours!
December 24th 10am-3pm December 29th 10am-5pm December 25th Closed December 30th 10am-5pm December 26th Closed December 31st 10am-3pm December 27th Closed January 1st Closed December 28th 10am-5pm January 2nd Closed Normal hours resume January 3rd 10am-5pm.
2 Railway Crescent, Daylesford (03) 5348 1920
Wishing our clients and readers a wonderful Christmas & a healthy and happy New Year. From everyone at The Local
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas Christmas is coming, and so are the outfits, decorations and trees. The Local caught up with a few of those making the most of the silly season.
Volunteers Danny Moynihan, Yvette Dickson, Marg Frederick, Rebecca Neville and Sharon Michaels Image: Kyle Barnes
At the Daylesford Community Op Shop, right, it's been a busy year with loads of donations and support going to great causes and those in need. They include those without a home, the Colleen Shields Youth Sponsorship Award, Creative Indigenous university fees, Daylesford College Awards Night, domestic violence clients and Indigenous clients. Just over $19,000 in grants have gone to the New Year's Eve Gala Parade, Daylesford & District Agricultural Show, Hepburn Community Radio, Swiss Italian Festa, Good Grub Club, Highland Gathering, Daylesford Community Child Care, SHIFT Healthy Lunch Kitchen & Young Growers, Sue’s Twilight Christmas Market, Hepburn Regional Community Cheer, Hepburn Wholefoods Collective and schools with supplies for art and craft and dress-ups. Donations to the op shop have come from the VIP Business Group (#vipbusinessnetwork), Spa Centre, CWA Daylesford, Belle Property Daylesford, Daylesford Neighbourhood House, Daylesford Rotary, Creswick Woollen Mills, Spot on Motors Hoppers Crossing, Stihl Shop Daylesford, Commonwealth Bank, Community Bank Daylesford District, Daylesford Locksmith, Courtot Automotive and Rustic Habitat Bullarto. Manager Michelle Clifford said people can donate through using the new Container Collection Deposit Scheme, just around the corner with donations tax deductible. Donate to BSB 633000, account 145943866 with reference Daylesford Community Op Shop. "We are very thankful to our wonderful volunteers, some pictured here, and the community for its ongoing donations of goods. Wishing everyone a fantastic end to the year and all the best for 2024."
Santa House at Creswick Creswick’s Santa House is in full festive season glory once again.
The private residence at 166 Creswick-Ballarat Road features the decorative work of residents Lawrie, pictured above, and Dot Porter and various family members, all of whom confess to being fans of the celebratory season. Their passion for Christmas time seems to be catching as locals and passersby pause to appreciate the seasonal splendour of their Yuletide handiwork. Even the award-winning Creswick Brass Band is not immune and members say the band are planning to pay a couple of visits to this unofficial local Christmas time attraction to play a couple of evening gigs on December 23 and 24.
Image: Eve Lamb
Elizabeth Bach and Clementine Nemeth at the Daylesford Transfer Station and, inset, Robert Hildebrand at the Creswick Transfer Station
6 News
Just briefly...
Creswick's Bob Orr has been shortlisted for a national fundraising award. The Fundraising Institute of Australia has shortlisted Bob in the category of Fundraising Champion of the Year 2024 for their upcoming Excellence in Fundraising Awards. This year Bob accepted the challenge of raising $150,000 for Central Highlands Rural Health. The awards will be held on February 29.
Daylesford Primary Schools will receive $244,855 to create facilities suitable for students of all abilities, as part of Round nine of the state government’s Inclusive Schools Fund.
NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR PLANNING PERMIT
PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENT REGULATIONS 2015 – Schedule 1 - Form 2 Section 52(1) (Planning & Environment Act 1987)
The land affected by the application is located at:
1 Mckinnon Road HEPBURN VIC 3461 Lot 18 LP 11054 TSH THE
The application is for a permit for:
Construction of two dwellings within the Neighbourhood Residential Zone, Bushfire Management Overlay and Environmental Significance Overlay and removal of covenant from title.
The applicant for the permit is:
The Workshop Drafting Studio
The application reference number is:
PLN23/0213
VIEW THE APPLICATION: • In Person: You may view the application and any documents that support the application free of charge
CCTV surveillance equipment to protect Creswick’s public EV charge station is scheduled for installation this week, Hepburn Shire Council CEO Bradley Thomas has confirmed.
The 50kW Chargefox station was taken offline after it was vandalised in August. Hepburn Wind will carry out repairs to the station early in the new year. Mr Thomas said a fast charge station for Trentham would be installed at the town’s mechanics building by mid next year. A Clunes station will be installed early next year.
VicGrid is commencing work to develop the first Victorian Transmission Plan and shape Victoria’s future Renewable Energy Zones.
As part of the first phase of the process, the Victorian Government body is undertaking a community survey to inform a state-wide Strategic Land Use Assessment, which will provide the foundation of the planning and development of Victoria’s REZs. Link: www.engage.vic.gov.au/victransmissionplan
Customer Services Building – Daylesford Corner Duke and Albert Streets 8.30am to 5pm Monday to Friday
• Online:
Scan the QR Code or visit
https://www.hepburn.vic.gov.au/planning-building/statutoryplanning/planning-process/advertising/
•
Phone:
Planning Enquiries (03) 5348 2306
LODGE AN OBJECTION: Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to Council. Complete the Objection to a Planning Application Form or lodge an objection in writing via: • •
Email: Post:
shire@hepburn.vic.gov.au Planning Department – PO BOX 21, Daylesford VIC 3460
An objection must be made to Council in writing, include reasons for the objection, and state how the objector would be affected. If you object, Council will notify you of its decision. Please be aware copies of objections/submissions received may be made available to any person for the purpose of consideration of the planning process. The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before:
21/12/2023
Progress on the Creswick Trails project has hit a major milestone with around 30km of trails completed. But they are not yet ready to ride.
Hepburn Shire Mayor Cr Brian Hood said the distance completed was not continuous. “There are no completed trail areas that are currently ready to ride. It’s important to be patient and to stay off the trails until they are officially open.” The project remains on track to be open in December next year.
MENTAL HEALTH & WELLBEING SERVICES AT DAYLESFORD COMMUNITY HEALTH
Following the recent road trauma across the shire, free counselling is available. Mental health-accredited social workers Drug and alcohol counsellors Trauma-informed counsellors
5321 6551 For information on how TAC may be able to support you, please visit tac.vic.gov.au or call 1300 654 329.
Help still available
Mental health and wellbeing support remains available for people after not only last month's devastating Daylesford accident but also other road trauma incidents in Hepburn Shire.
Central Highlands Rural Health Community Health & Wellbeing operations manager Shane Richardson said his organisation, funded by the state Department of Health, had been the lead agency for delivering the psychosocial health response, "and our response has not stopped". Mr Richardson said with the driver now facing a number of charges, and the event returning to news headlines, it was important the community knew that mental health and wellbeing support was still available. "Along with that, people might go on leave and be around family and that could be triggering, so we want the community to know we are here, ready and able to provide support for people directly or even for those who are already helping others caring for the carer." Mr Richardson said Central Highlands Health had experienced counsellors accredited in mental health, drug and alcohol, and trauma, on hand either in person or over the phone. "Natasha, Paul and Sarah (pictured) have been among those available for drop-in sessions, self referral or phone consultations. This is ongoing and our message is if people are feeling like they need help, please come and talk to us. We are here and ready." Mr Richardson said along with local people, CHRH had also become a central point of service for people who had witnessed the accident but who lived in either Melbourne or other states. "We are getting many calls from people around Australia, perhaps they were visiting from other states, or travelling around the country, who just feel like they need to talk to someone local to be able to move forward through this. We are here." *If you, or anyone you know, needs help call 03 5321 6551.
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas The lovely little handmade nativity scene in Central Highlands Rural Health’s Clunes campus has been winning fans and helping people to take a moment and reflect on the meaning of Christmas.
The textile piece was created by Clunes resident Betty Ingram, who has since passed away, and is now on display in the clinic waiting room, providing something festive for patients to think about as they wait to see a doctor. “We just think it’s beautiful. It’s gorgeous. It’s different,” said Clunes resident Marlene Pitman who was in the clinic recently. The little handmade textile scene is part of the Clunes health campus’s overall effort at celebrating the season with no shortage of tinsel, glossy baubles and the obligatory tree also on display in the clinic’s waiting room. But as administration staffer Janet Hineman explained it’s also part of friendly Central Highlands Rural Health inter-campus rivalry to see which health campus takes out the annual Christmas Decoration Competition. Clunes has form on this front having won the competition in both 2019 and 2020 and Janet said they’ll find out if they’ve won again this year at about the same time that The Local hits news stands and online reading. Meantime, Janet said the little nativity scene has been receiving plenty of admiration and positive comments from those consigned to spend some minutes in the waiting room. “One lady said it made her day.”
Pictured, Clunes residents Marlene and Maurie Pitman admire the handiwork that’s gone into making the little nativity scene Words & images: Eve Lamb
Hepburn House Open Days What: New extension open for inspection When: 1pm-3pm, Saturdays until January 29 Where: Hepburn House, 1 Hepburn Road, Hepburn Bookings: dianne@hepburnhouse.com.au Covid RAT tests are not needed until the extension opens. For inspections during the week contact Hepburn House to arrange a time. Hepburn House is also keen for more staff, either working or doing a Certificate 3 onsite next year. Anyone interested should bring their resume. During the open days the original building will not be open for viewing. For those interested in taking a look at that building, they need to make an appointment and complete a RAT test. Details: www.hepburnhouse.com.au or 5348 8100.
www.tlnews.com.au
8 News
LGBTIQA+ leaders/hub Churchy things... Expressions of interest for the 2024 Victorian LGBTIQA+ Leadership Program, encouraging diverse rainbow sector leaders to put themselves forward have opened.
As part of an eight-week course, up to 25 leaders from Melbourne and regional Victoria will develop their skills and be supported to build a legacy of lasting leadership within their organisation, as well as learn how to create stronger connections across the LGBTIQA+ sector. The program is open to LGBTIQA+ Victorians who hold a leadership position or an influential role within a Victorian LGBTIQA+ organisation or group. Burnout in the LGBTIQA+ sector is a key issue the program seeks to address, with course units designed to improve individual resilience, with others focusing on making sure leadership is impactful at an organisational level. Applications for the EOI round will close on Friday, January 19 – to apply visit vic.gov.au/victorian-lgbtiqa-leadership-program Meanwhile, the state government is also funding a safe new space in Ballarat for young lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and gender diverse, intersex, queer and asexual (LGBTIQA+) Victorians and their families to get support and connection. QHub Ballarat has officially opened its doors in Ballarat’s health services precinct, with the service now able to take referrals for local LGBTIQA+ youth across the region. Co-designed with communities, the hub will be a central, safe, affirming and inclusive space for LGBTIQA+ youth aged up to 25 from Western Victoria, providing access to crucial mental health support, social connection opportunities and wellbeing activities. QHub is a state government-funded LGBTIQA+ youth mental health and social connection program delivered in partnership with Drummond Street Services' Queerspace, Wellways and Cafs Ballarat.
Writing the
Rainbow
Christ Church Daylesford (Anglican) will hold: a Christmas Eve service will be held at 10am on Sunday, December 24 and a Blue Christmas service at 6pm for people who have lost someone this year. All welcome, all-faith no-faith - a service of prayer, reflection and hope. Then a Midnight service at 11pm. A Christmas Day service will be held at 10am.
The Catholic Parishes of Creswick and Daylesford will hold Christmas Masses on: Christmas Eve, Sunday, December 24, 8.30pm at St Peter's Daylesford and Christmas Day, Monday, December 25, 9am at St Augustine's Creswick.
The Uniting Church Daylesford will hold: a Sunday service on Christmas Eve at 9.30am and a Christmas Day service at 9am.
Remedial Massage · Facials · Oncology Massage Lomi Lomi Hot Stone Massage · Aromatherapy Relaxation Massage Cupping · Take home aftercare products available Health fund rebates available. If you live in the Hepburn Shire discounts may apply.
BOOK NOW: Text Fiona Harris 0417 371 587 or scan My home clinic is on the edge of the Wombat Forest in Glenlyon
OPENING HOURS
Home care you can trust
CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEARS
Community Aged Care and Disability Support
DATE
DAYLESFORD
TRENTHAM
KYNETON
SAT 23 DEC
9am–1pm
CLOSED
9am–1pm
SUN 24 DEC
CLOSED
CLOSED
CLOSED
MON 25 DEC
CLOSED
CLOSED
CLOSED
TUE 26 DEC
CLOSED
CLOSED
CLOSED
WED 27 DEC
8.30am–5:30pm
8.45am–5pm
8.30am–5:30pm
THU 28 DEC
8.30am–5:30pm
8.45am–5pm
8.30am–5:30pm
FRI 29 DEC
8.30am–5:30pm
8.45am–5pm
8.30am–5:30pm
SAT 30 DEC
9am–1pm
CLOSED
9am–1pm
SUN 31 DEC
CLOSED
CLOSED
CLOSED
MON 1 JAN
CLOSED
CLOSED
CLOSED
TUE 2 JAN
8.30am–5:30pm
8.30am–5pm
8.30am–5:30pm
If you have an urgent, non-life-threatening health concern after hours, call the After Hours GP Helpline 1800 022 222 BOOK
In an emergency always call 000
ONLINE WITH
Daylesford
Kyneton
Trentham
10 Hospital Street
89 Piper Street
22 Victoria Street
tel: (03) 5348 2227
tel: (03) 5422 1298
tel: (03) 5424 1602
www.springsmedical.com.au
Nightingale Home Care provides tailored, personable and highly qualified in-home nursing, aged care, and disability support to those in Daylesford and the surrounding region. Would you or a loved one benefit from the daily care of a professional in the comfort of your own home? Our nurses and support staff are here to help. 03 5223 1909 info@nightingalehomecare.com.au www.nightingalehomecare.com.au
News 9
Win for conservationists in the Wombat Forest Not just for Christmas Like puppies and kittens, they’re to keep and cherish for their lifetime. I’m talking about house plants, because with a little care and the right treatment and conditions they can be expected to last for years...especially if presented in an attractive, decorated pot. But it doesn’t stop with indoor plants. I’m yet to hear of anyone turning down a flowering shrub or garden ornament as a gift. As an ardent last-minute panic Christmas shopper perhaps resorting to “something for the garden” I know there’s an endless supply of garden goodies to be had from all of the little nurseries, florists and gift shops scattered throughout our area. Now, if ever a range of gifts was waiting for you it has to be destined for the garden. Whether it be pot plants, garden ornaments or sculptures, the choice is all yours. If the choice is plant life, more than a little care is needed to select something that is both appealing and capable of surviving way past the euphoria of Christmas Day. So buy locally from the people who know and grow for themselves. Obviously any gifted tree or shrub will yearn for the outdoors and should not be kept indoors any longer than Christmas/New Year before being released in the garden. But the indoor varieties are a different matter. They will mostly thrive if placed in front of a well-lit window, preferably a southern one away from direct sunlight. Out of the sunlight is best for the soft-leaf ferns. Coming mostly from the depths of rainforests, they can tolerate longer spells of low light. But for other cool climate species, early morning sunlight is fine. Frost-sensitive plants such as poinsettia need the protection of double glazing or a constantly warm room to survive the worst of winter. Take care not to overwater your plants, they are more likely to rot off or drown than to suffer from a few days without water. Potted plants for indoors, or a sheltered spot on the porch or terrace are always welcomed, especially if they come with an attractive container. Most homes have a well-lit spot indoors where indoor plants will flourish but away from direct sunlight is best. These can range from such ornamental foliaged plants as ivy, sansevieria (snake plant), ficus, philodendrons or among the vast range of ornamental ferns - many of which are native to Australia. The all-time favourite saintpaulia or African violets are in bloom right now in a range of delightful colours from white to deep purple . For outdoors, larger plants, along with suitably large containers always make terrific gifts. For a cool, shaded spot, nothing compares with hydrangeas. In sunny places plants grown simply for their attractive foliage include cordyline flax, conifers and the slender-foliaged, weeping dwarf acacias. Among my favourites would be the new range of fruiting miniature citrus trees and the ubiquitous aspidistra. Since Victorian times, through decades of ridicule and downright rejection, these stalwarts (especially the striped variegated form) have survived neglect in dark, dusty corners to now rightfully claim their place of honour in our homes and gardens.
Above, a worthy succulent trio: “watch chain” - crassula muscosa, “Christmas cactus” - hatiora gaertneri and “string of pearls” - curio rowleyanus, under the supervision of a ceramic chook! Perfect partners and easily grown Got a gardening query? Email glenzgarden@gmail.com
Late last month the Victorian Supreme Court granted an injunction to stop VicForests timber harvesting operations in a coupe known as ‘Silver Queen’ in the Wombat State Forest. This replaces the interim injunction that has been in place since September.
In September, Wombat Forestcare, an environment group based in the Wombat Forest sought an interim injunction to stop salvage harvesting in a coupe where they alleged that VicForests had not carried out adequate surveys for a range of threatened species. Surveys by VicForests’ contractors found nine endangered mountain skinks in and around the salvage harvesting coupe, and VicForests have applied to the Department of the Environment regarding whether special protections will be required. During a previous hearing VicForests had said that they had not surveyed for mountain skinks as there was no evidence that they could be found on the coupe. Wombat Forestcare convenor Gayle Osborne said this showed how important it was to survey rigorously for all species. "There has already been some salvage work on the coupe, and we do not know if some populations of the endangered skink have been destroyed by heavy machinery." Wombat Forestcare expanded its case to allege breaches of species survey requirements in other western forests, including the Mount Cole, Pyrenees, Cobaw and Enfield forests. "The Victorian Government has committed to creating three new national parks: the Wombat-Lerderderg, Mount Buangor (Mt Cole area) and Pyrenees National Parks. "These forests have conservation values making them worthy of national park status, and contain many threatened species, some of which are critically endangered. VicForests should not be allowed to carry out timber harvesting operations without establishing whether threatened species are present." VicForests’ barrister argued that the salvage operation was not timber harvesting as defined in the code of practice for timber harvesting, however Justice Richards said that it was premature to argue that point. The case will return to court for a directions hearing in February and is expected to go to trial next year.
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Council news AQUATICS SEASON
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION! We are creating short videos to explain the new food and garden organics kerbside collection, which will roll out early next year. Township residents will receive a lime-green lidded bin and kitchen caddy in the first few months of 2024. This new collection stream will greatly reduce the amount of kitchen scraps and garden clippings that go to landfill. The scraps will be turned into nutrient-rich compost in in-vessel containers at Creswick Transfer Station, which will be used on local gardens and farms. Find out more at www.hepburn.vic.gov.au/food-garden
Our aquatics season is in full swing. Make sure to visit one of the facilities in our Shire to beat the summer heat. Entry is free to all Council pools and the Creswick Splash Park. To find out the opening hours of all our Council aquatics facilities visit www.hepburn.vic.gov.au/swimming-pools
CRESWICK TRAILS PROJECT UPDATE
Progress on the Creswick Trails project recently hit a major milestone with around 30 kilometres of trails completed. While this represents half of the total network, the distance completed is not continuous and there are no completed trail areas that are currently ready to ride. We understand the excitement that surrounds this project, but it’s important to be patient and to stay off the trails until they are officially open. We will continue to look at options of how we can possibly open a portion of the trail before the entire trails are complete. The Creswick Trails project remains on track to be open in December 2024.
BUY LOCAL THIS FESTIVE SEASON
BUILDING SERVICES You may have heard that many councils are dealing with a shortage of qualified building and planning staff. Unfortunately, Hepburn Shire is no different. As a result, we have made a temporary change to the building services on offer. Building permit applications now need to be made through a private building surveyor rather than through Council. If you have already submitted a Building Permit application to Council, we will continue to process it. At this stage we don’t have a clear date for when we can again offer this service. We will keep the community informed. We apologise for the inconvenience.
END OF YEAR CLOSURE Council offices, depots, hubs and libraries will close at 2pm on Friday 22 December and reopen on Tuesday 2 January. Transfer Stations are closed on Christmas Day. Staff involved in emergency management will be on call. Kerbside collection - There will be no kerbside collections on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. From Christmas Day, collections will be pushed back by one day until Monday 8 January 2024. This means if your collection is usually on a Monday (Christmas Day), it will be collected on a Tuesday (Boxing Day), etc.
Looking for a Christmas gift for someone special? We are fortunate to have so many amazing options in our towns. Here are some ideas: • Locally grown produce or homemade goodies To report an emergency over the closure period phone 0419 587 • A gorgeous gift from our many wonderful shops 955 for animal emergencies (e.g. dog attacks and stock on Council • A gift voucher to a local eatery, store or provider roads) or for all other emergencies phone 0419 583 573. • Treat them to afternoon tea at your favourite café. Councillors and staff wish the There are many ways that we can celebrate our friends and family community a safe and happy festive while supporting local businesses.
season.
COUNCIL PLAN FOCUS AREAS
The Council Plan 2021-2025 describes how Council will strive towards our vision, where to focus efforts, and how to measure progress. Each Focus Area has a series of priority statements, with actions against each item. 5348 2306 shire@hepburn.vic.gov.au www.hepburn.vic.gov.au www.facebook.com/hepburncouncil
EAT | DRINK | ENJOY
Out & About in the Central Highlands
Image: Donna Kelly
14 Our people
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Dean Reserve delivers the Creswick goods
It was a happy occasion in Creswick.
Dean Recreation Reserve president Brian Maher and treasurer Rob Turley both rolled up at the Creswick Neighbourhood Centre a bit over a week ago, to do one of their favourite things – present a cheque. This time it was to Anglicare Victoria’s food relief program which runs out of the Creswick Neighbourhood Centre. The cheque was for a handy $1500 and was the proceeds of money raised through raffles run at this year’s Dean Kite Festival in September, and the Dean and District Sheepdog Trials in October. The Dean Recreation Reserve committee run both popular events on their attractive little recreation reserve and each year donate the proceeds raised to good causes. “We like to see the money we make go to the local community and we’d especially like to thank all our supporters who donated items for the raffles,” said Rob Turley. On the receiving end of the cheque this time round, Anglicare Victoria’s Ballaratbased community development manager, Kim Boyd said demand for the emergency relief program was increasing. “We’re certainly seeing an increase this year in the demand for food support and extra support around Christmas,” Kim said. “The demand on us is steadily increasing.” The $1500 will be used to purchase food items which will be distributed to those in need in the local area. “This is an outreach centre and we work in partnership with the Creswick Neighbourhood Centre and the local parish and other community groups,” Kim said. Creswick Neighbourhood Centre manager Chrissy Austin said they’ve also noticed the increased demand from people seeking help through the emergency food relief program. “We see people in need daily here. We’re so grateful to Anglicare,” she said. “This is a very important program to us. We have a steady stream of people. There’s just so much need in the community.” From left, Anglicare volunteer Eileen Coveney, Cr Don Henderson, Dean Recreation Reserve president Brian Maher, Dean Recreation Reserve treasurer Rob Turley, Stephen Crane of Elders Insurance (Dean and District Sheepdog Trials sponsor) and Anglicare Victoria’s Kim Boyd with food relief items distributed through Creswick Neighbourhood Centre Words & image: Eve Lamb
Red Rebels in action Central Vic Climate Action members and Central Victorian locals participated in a week-long December Rebellion in Melbourne, with their Red Rebels leading marches and members of the group arrested.
Red Rebels are an international activist performance troupe, who silently participate in climate actions. Red Rebels primarily from Castlemaine were leading two of the marches during the week. The first march on December 6 was to MP Peter Khalil’s office, to draw attention to the federal government's refusal to put an end to new coal and gas projects. "Red stands for love for our planet and our rage about our current climate breakdown. Our silence represents our lack of voice as an everyday person compared to the powerful fossil fuel industry and the politicians who support them," said Serena Everill, who supported the Red Rebels during two events. "Red draws attention from people on the street. Their white faces spook the police and shows the mortality we all face on a dead planet. "The December Rebellion was organised by Extinction Rebellion and the week-long event created disruption throughout Melbourne to bring attention to the destruction of our planet. "The final event of the week was the Slow March and Mass Arrest on December 10. Over 300 people participated (along with) a motorised effigy of a burning koala. Two of the 77 arrests on this day were CVCA members. Mass arrests are a potent form of democratic protest." CVCA members will support the next Extinction Rebellion series of events in March. Minister Khalil did not return email queries from The Local by press time.
Left, Red Rebels with Blinky the Smoking Koala Words & image: Contributed
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Gala & Parade December 31 means just one thing to many people in Daylesford and Hepburn - the New Year's Eve Parade and Gala.
And no wonder - committee president Cathy Davies has been doing some research and believes the parade goes back to 1914. Cathy said the evening will be divided into two parts starting with the Gala from 6pm to 8pm - which sees Vincent Street transformed into a huge fun community area. Up the southern end, think Frangos, there is live music with a blues band, food trucks, barbeque and plenty of tables and chairs. Next door is the "soft area" with the astroturf laid covered with bean bags, deck chairs, small tables and big games like noughts & crosses and jigsaws. It's the place for families to come and sit around and chat about the year that was while the kids play games. Big pots of flowers, created by the Friends of Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens, will provide a festive feel. Keep heading north and you will find yourself in the woodchop area - where the woodchoppers will show off their expertise with an exhibition for an hour or so. If that's not enough, head further north, think Coles way, and that's the Kids' Corner with a petting zoo, face painting and fire trucks. Old fashioned games include coconut shy, quoits and pin the tail on the donkey. There's also balloon creatures and craft on offer. By 8pm the floats - walking and motorised, historic vehicles, fire trucks and everything in between, will have found their spot in Duke Street, and the always colourful parade gets underway. The festivities finish with the Daylesford Community Brass Band playing a few tunes, ending with tearjerker Auld Lang Syne, before parade prizes are presented. Cathy said the committee was hoping many people would register floats, with a special Hepburn Wind Sustainability Award for the best walking/sustainability float on offer, by December 30. To register with a hard copy head to the Daylesford Regional Visitor Information Centre or for an online copy email tracey.petrie@gmail.com See you there to farewell 2023!
Out & About 15
New Year @ Glenlyon Except for the war years and Covid, the New Year’s Sports Day at Glenlyon has been run every year since 1857 - some of the “older” members joke that they can’t quite remember back that far!
Entertainment throughout the day, at the Glenlyon Recreation Reserve, includes Midlands Axemen’s Association wood chopping event. In memoriam of Harold Suckling, who sadly passed away earlier this year and who had for over 50 years been both competitor and announcer at Glenlyon New Year's Day, a new event will be run in his name to honour the contribution he has made to the sport and the club. Novelty events will also be held such as Bullboar Eating and Mineral Water Drinking competitions, children’s running races later in the day along with face painting and magic workshop, other children’s activities, women’s nail driving and gumboot throwing competitions. The Daylesford Brass Band will perform and equestrian events will be run throughout the day along with the running of the much-acclaimed Glenlyon Cup. Catering is provided by St Michaels Primary School and there is a licensed bar onsite. People are encouraged to come along with their chairs/rugs/picnics and celebrate the New Year under the wonderful shade offered by the massive old oak and elm trees. This community-minded event is wholly run by volunteers with all monies raised donated back into local charities/sporting clubs. Due to rising costs the gate fee has risen to $15 but those under 16 are offered free admission. Once inside the reserve, all events are free to enter and a gate prize of a voucher worth $500 will be drawn on the day. Glenlyon Sports Club has its own Facebook page for more information or email glenlyonsportsclub@gmail.com See you there to welcome in 2024!
Glenlyon Sports Day on for New Year
T
HE Glenlyon Sports Day will be held again on Monday, January 1, 2024. The historic annual event is held at the Glenlyon Reserve, a picturesque setting well shaded by magnificent old oak trees. A bar and catering facilities with a good selection of food will be available. Entry for adults is $15, under 16s free. There will be wood chopping, bullboar eating & mineral water drinking competitions along with the ladies' gumboot and nail driving challenges. Don't forget horse events and the Glenlyon Cup. Children will be entertained with a wellequipped playground and children’s foot racing events. Glenlyon Sports Club has its own Facebook page for more information or email glenlyonsportsclub@gmail.com See you there!!!
Look out: radical harvest ahead
“We’re also working with FLOCK which is the Friendly Little Ornithology Club, and Castlemaine Zen will be doing a meditative walk to really set the tone of It also produces a pretty decent physical workout. Just ask local artist Tony Sawrey awareness and intention for the day of the event.” In the lead up to the day-long March harvest event, there’s an ongoing series of (also known in his other guise as a writer for The Local). events featuring artists attending the monthly Glenlyon Market that happens on the Tony is among a group of several artists currently planning or creating work third Saturday of the month. as part of the six-month-long arts project that is Radical Fieldz - the brainchild of This is followed in the afternoon, after the market, with a different co-creative arts Glenlyon artist Ryan Kennedy. event at the Glenlyon Dam. The project started in October and involves a series of arts events taking place “We’ve also been given a grant and we’re going to do some work on a big painting every month at Glenlyon through to March 16 when they culminate in a day-long event on Saturday, January 20 from 2-6pm with the Glenlyon Progress Association,” outdoor event. This will take place on a yet-to-be publicly disclosed private estate and will feature RFK says. “We’re going to be working on a mural out the front of the Glenlyon Shire a range of unique works including installation and performance pieces. Tony’s motorbike “painting” will be among them and he was happily working on Hall. It will be like an abstract map of the town highlighting what the town’s about, referencing landmarks around the town. his creation when The Local caught up with him on site recently. “I just felt like there was room for a constant and creative space within the “I do a lot of artwork, painting and installations in outdoor environments but it’s community and that’s something I wanted Radical Fieldz to offer. the first time I’ve used a motorbike,” he said. “I feel like the more we empower the community to be creative the more interest “In this case we’ve laid out a roughly 90- by 80-metre wide design. We’re thinking they have in our own work as artists.” come April we might put in rye grass (in the soil cut up by the bike’s tyre tread) With the location of the March 16 culminating harvest event to be revealed closer which will strike pretty quick. “And we’re hoping that will be growing by the time the final event happens - the to the occasion, RFK can divulge a bit more of what may be expected on the day. “Expect something you probably haven’t seen before,” he says. final harvest. I’ve got to do ongoing work with this, just running the pattern until we “We’re on Facebook and Instagram and I am encouraging local artists and can turn up some of the dirt. community groups that want to get creative to get in touch with us. The program is “I’ve wanted to do something like this for years, but it really takes that unique and we’ve got a lot of creative individuals around there.” collaboration with someone like Ryan which is why the Radical Fieldz program is so interesting and different. “There’s a lot of collaboration involved. It’s transforming something which has a prosaic use and creates something else out of it.” Above, artists Ryan Kennedy (aka RFK), left, and Tony Sawrey take a break Ryan, or RFK as he is also known, will also have site-specific work included as during the creation of an artwork with a difference, part of the Radical Fieldz part of the final culminating event on March 16 as will not only other artists, but also project happening at Glenlyon a few less likely suspects. These include a local ornithology group and a local fitness group who are getting Words and image: Eve Lamb involved in various interesting ways. “I’m working with several community groups to reframe how they work in the Read more about RFK's arts world in Artists of the Central Highlands on p21. community through the lens of art,” RFK says. “We’ve got Daylesford CrossFit joining us and we’re literally doing a tractor pull. We’ll be working in teams. It will be a choreographed piece, basically an exercise to drag the tractor across the field.
Using a motorbike to “paint” with doesn’t just produce a unique work of art in the landscape.
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The Spirit of Christmas is in each of us. Sometimes it’s hard to see, to hear, to feel, but it’s there. And if we were to trust for even a single moment, it would grow within us. We would be the true gift of peace, joy, love to ourselves and all around us. With heartfelt gratitude to all in our lifeour friends, family, collegues, communitywe wish you a merry Christmasour SPIRIT to yours.
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One of our most requested recipes we have ever done so its back by ‘popular demand’. This is a sure-fire method to stop complaints about a dry turkey. We take a whole turkey and brine it for at least a day. We cook it until it is almost done, wrap it in a towel and finish it in an esky where it will cook a little more and become super juicy and super tender. You’ll need a big pot, a container that will fit a turkey AND fit into the fridge, a big Esky, aluminum foil, and some clean towels. Best bit about this recipe is that you can cook it a couple of hours in advance so you have your oven free to cook the roast pork or whatever else floats your boat on Christmas Day.
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Out & About 19
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Smile on their dial at the Dharma School
It would probably be pretty hard to beat the creation of a sundial as a wellrounded learning experience.
The analemmatic sundial which was progressively created by students at Daylesford’s Dharma School over much of the 2023 school year provides a perfect example. The idea came about when students were attending “bush school” and developed from there, leading to a pretty interesting learning experience for staff as well as students, says grade five-six teacher Rachel Taylor. Students become totally engrossed in the creation of the ancient practical means of telling the time of day by virtue of the angle of shadows cast by the changing position of the sun relative to directional compass bearings in the landscape. The resulting sundial is not just a useful tool for telling the time of day, it also became an investigation into the ancient Egyptian origins of sundials, the precursors to analogue watches of today. Research, maths, geography, science and practical building skills all got a fairly rigorous workout in the process, as did a bit of interpersonal politics with students encouraging parents to get on board and help out, which they generously did along with the Daylesford Rotary Club. The students and their various staff and parental helpers also created a beautiful herbal meditation and tea garden around the sundial. “It was amazing to see a student-led project that produced such passion and follow-through,” reflected Dharma school principal Andrea Furness, admiring the sundial in its beautiful little herbal garden, just days out from the end of the school year. Andrea says anyone who is interested in the project is now welcome to go check it out, while enthusiastic students say anyone keen to create their own site-specific sundial would do well to check out the Solar Schoolhouse human sundial website.
Above, from left, Daylesford Dharma School students Ziggy Hudson, Aya Taube and Aurora Freeman with the school’s sundial - Ziggy is acting as the human gnomon required to cast the sundial’s time-telling shadow as part of this well-rounded learning project, while Aya and Aurora prepare to add finishing touches to the project by painting in months of the year Words & image: Eve Lamb
“It was amazing to see a student-led project that produced such passion and follow-through.” Dharma school principal Andrea Furness
Wine notes
with Clive Hartley
McKenzie & King @ the Cosmo
Christmas specials
'Tis the season to be jolly. So here are some recommendations to enjoy the festive season that can be sourced locally. You don’t need an excuse to drink Champagne and sparkling wine but Christmas and New Year is generally the most popular time to pop a cork. I like a couple of Australian sparkling wines, but I often gravitate towards Champagne. My favourites are Louis Roederer NV or Taittinger for a pre-meal drink and Bollinger to have with a meal. Roederer is elegant, a tad lighter is Taittinger, whilst Bollinger is heavier and more autolytic in style. One Australian example I’d recommend is our Hanging Rock Macedon Brut Cuvée XIX NV. This is a complex wine made from 60% pinot noir and 40% chardonnay. Half the wine goes through malolactic fermentation and is then barrel aged, the other half is fermented in tank. They use reserve wine to add more complexity. Another local wine, which I got to taste recently and can recommend, is the Blue Pyrenees Vintage Brut selling for a modest $28. My suggested white wines for Christmas include a bunch of fresh and light wines for a hot day. Granite Hills do a lovely aromatic Pinot Blanc 2023 - this Alsace grape variety is becoming popular in Australia. Best’s Great Western do a great riesling and their 2023 is on special at the moment, two for $50. Brown Brothers Wine Maker’s Series Fiano 2021 comes highly recommended. The wine has strong lime and lemon zest aromas. On the palate it is dry, fleshy with pear skin and lemon flavours on a well-balanced, medium bodied framework, currently on special at $20 a bottle. With red wines I’d keep them light to medium bodied in style. Pinot noir, gamay, and sangiovese are all suggestions. Try Curly Flat Pinot Noir 2021/2020 or the lighter Scotchmans Hill Pinot Noir 2021. Lyons Will Estate are specialists gamay producers so I’d drink their 2022, or you could try a cru village Beaujolais such as Morgon. For sangiovese I’d recommend Vinea Marson from Heathcote. Local producers Red Hare and Musk Lane also do recommended sangiovese (both from the 2021 vintage). If you require something heavier then try Majella’s Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 from Coonawarra which offers blackcurrant and ripe mulberry aromas wrapped around cedar, mint and earthy notes. The palate is rich, full bodied with black cherry fruits and a tannic finish. Or the Blue Pyrenees Richardson Shiraz 2019 for a more full-bodied rich, concentrated red with bags of Black Forest cake-inspired fruits. Clive Hartley is an award-winning wine writer, educator and consultant. Read his Australian Wine Guide (7th ed) available from Paradise Books, Daylesford, Stoneman's Bookroom, Castlemaine or via his website - www.australianwineguide.com.au
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Artists of the Central Highlands
From his childhood in rural America, Ryan Kennedy (aka RFK) moved to New York City and worked in the fashion industry including textile design and runway installation. From there he pursued his own creative studio practice in Brooklyn and in 2009 hosted a tour group of Australian art educators, curators and collectors which led to him accepting an Artist in Residency at Melbourne Girls Grammar and a solo show at fortyfivedownstairs. Since his 2014 immigration to Australia RFK’s work in performance, installation and sculpture have won accolades including the 2018 Lorne Sculpture Biennale Land Art Sculpture-scape Award. Currently RFK is deeply ensconced in the Glenlyon landscape, where he resides and where his creativity continues to enrich the wider community and to inspire communal thought ‘outside the square’. Eve: Is that an American accent I detect? RFK: It is. Yeh. I was born in Virginia on the East Coast. It’s known to be for lovers, Virginia. Where I grew up we had the Appalachians in the backdrop. Eve: So how long have you been here, in Australia? RFK: In Australia permanently, at least 10 years now. Eve: And what brought you here? RFK: Work brought me here and love kept me here. Eve: Did you meet an Aussie? RFK: I did. Yeh.
with Eve Lamb
Eve: And the genre? RFK: I’d say I’m in the avant-garde. I like to really work with relationships whether that’s between ourselves and our history or the landscapes. They’re very site-specific these works. For instance, with the last piece I was asked to do a piece that celebrated the creators of the Great Ocean Road so I went down to the Great Ocean Road, began research... Eve: Was that part of the Lorne Foreshore Sculpture Show? RFK: Yes. Eve: What would you rate as some of your career highlights as an artist? RFK: The Lorne Sculpture Show was definitely a big one for me. I’ve worked with White Night in Melbourne, which was a lot of fun and then I’d say my residencies, whether they’re at schools or libraries. I really enjoy engaging with youth as well as the general public. Eve: What materials are you typically working with? RFK: I almost always use found materials. I try my best not to buy them. I also came from fashion and was a bit disheartened by the amount of waste that was there. There is something really special about the stories that come with those materials. And no matter what subject matter I’m working with I do try to project a sense of a hopeful future. Eve: Do you have a particular exhibition or show coming up that you are working towards at the moment? RFK: Radical Fieldz. It’s an exhibition taking place in Glenlyon for myself and other artists, also involving several community groups. It uses a six-month timeline. It began in October and culminates on March 16 with our end of season harvest event.
Eve: That’s great. RFK: Yeh. I initially came over as I’d been living in Brooklyn at the time and I had a tour group of Australians from the art world come through my art studio and the head of art at Melbourne Girls Grammar offered a month-long residency. Note: You can read more about the Radical Fieldz project that’s unfolding
in Glenlyon in a separate article on page 16.
Eve: So what is your area of work exactly? RFK: I mostly work in performance, sculpture and installation. I call it PSI and Image: Eve Lamb the ratio of those three elements varies with the work itself. I mainly work these days by commissions and I take my time with the works. The last work was about three years in development.
22 Opinion
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Kyle’s Rant
Local Lines
Christmas started way too early this year with the first signs, including mince On hearing Ron Barassi has died pies, making their annual debut hot on the heels of the Halloween landfill There are people who, which wrapped up in early November. I don’t know how those nice people at the supermarket checkouts keep a smile the thought of, on their faces and put those bloody hats and reindeer ears on every year. And keep inflate the heart. listening to that infuriatingly sickly, looped yuletide music that wafts through the A memory of a smile or eyes, aisles. And a special shoutout to always happy Maree at the Daylesford Coles. or a voice, and you just feel better. (If I worked in a shop listening to that music I would apply for some sort of Stronger. post-traumatic stress payout - but that’s just me, a bahhumbugged, emotionally numb I thought this, when I saw that bloke that winces at the sight of tinsel.) Barassi has died. Speaking of Coles, the other day while shopping for a bachelor's handbag in Daylesford I had to brush past a scrawny, potty-mouthed idiot of a woman around the cheese section. It must have been the day she had run out of calm-down medication. The thing was, that the usually large aisle had been turned into two aisles with Christmas chocolates and other seasonal rubbish, which makes for a close-quarters situation between fellow shoppers. Anyone who knows me knows that I am the biggest physical distancer around. Particularly post pandemic, I can’t air kiss and hugs are something I do around 3am after a skinful, unless it’s with the wife on the odd auspicious occasion. So, back to potty-mouth who screeched at me “you had to come down this aisle, didn’t you?” and due to the proximity of the cheese counter being next to the hot chicken counter my retort was “yes, I did”. She then told me to “fornicate off” and then rudely added something about being fat and a woman's anatomy. You get the idea. I remained polite. I thought perhaps she was having a bad day and to cheer her up I went with flattery. And with imitation the sincerest form of flattery my considered response was “fornicate off yourself ”. I might have added “this is my town.” This would have to be the first time I have ever had this sort of encounter in a supermarket with someone I don’t know. Usually people wait until they know me a little before they tell me to “fornicate off.” And the only time I have experienced a little bit of argie-bargie was over the last four pack of lavender-scented toilet rolls around the middle of March 2020. (It was toilet paper war time and there was not a sheet to be found. Until we entered a country store down the coast where a bloke was putting out a stack of the aforementioned lavender toilet rolls. I asked him why he hadn't nabbed them for himself? Allergies apparently. I hate to think what that meant... but I digress.) So this is Christmas. The season for peace for all mankind, and womankind, and goodwill for all unless it doesn’t suit you. And the most magical time of the year keeps on giving with my most recent exposure to a shopping centre. Santa and his Kodak elves had set up camp in order to snap photos of the line-up of little darlings perched on his lap. How is that still legal? Anyway, one of the little cherubs was next and he was all dressed up in what looked like Christmas pyjamas - even his parents were dressed like that. And then he decided to have a meltdown. Even with the intervention of two elves and Mrs Claus the whole show quickly turned to custard. In my day... For me, Christmas is a good time to kick back for a bit, unwind and reflect a little. I hope the holiday season brings you whatever it is it means to you and I’ll catch you in the New Year. Christmas wishes rant over…
Catherine
KING MP
Federal Member for Ballarat 03 5338 8123 Catherine.King.MP@aph.gov.au CatherineKingMP
I don’t even like football, but I felt sweetly sad. He was old after all, as I am old. His face and voice a part of my cultural background, part of footy on the telly every weekend, in my mother's home, - though she barracked for Hawthorn and I, as a matter of social necessity, Geelong. They kept losing, I reasoned. They needed me. But Barassi was beyond teams, tall in a sort of cultural and domestic backwater, for people like me, beyond football, or sport. I would have liked to have known him in my work, in my street, in my town. I would like to have passed him buying milk or a newspaper in my street, but I didn’t. I knew him from radio reports of games I did not listen to. I knew him from TV panels I flicked past, documentaries from which I turned away, the News Sports segment when I left the telly to make tea, or wash the post dinner dishes, before changing channels. He never changed. I wish he had made Prime Minister of Australia. I wish he had been a workmate in the libraries in which I worked, or a local Shire Councillor. He would have been great to have around, whatever he did, his peacefulness and certainty, leaking through the years consistent, smiley, committed. Nothing loud or cool. Just, Ron just, Barassi. - Rhonda Cotsell Retired librarian Rhonda spent her working life in cities but she was born on a farm and feels most at home in small towns like Creswick where she currently lives. She loves writing and reading, her garden, adult offspring and grandson, cooking and eating.
@CatherineKingMP
Standing up for our Community!
www.catherineking.com.au Authorised by Catherine King, Australian Labor Party, 5/9 Sydney Avenue Barton ACT.
Local Lines features poetry by locals about local and any other matters. Please submit poems to Bill Wootton at cottlesbreedge@gmail.com
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Pick me, pick me! Hey! I’m Dexter. I am six and a black and tan chihuahua.
Opinion 23
Just sayin’... By Donna Kelly Kyle and I are having an orphans' Christmas this year. I literally am an orphan now, and one of his parents lives in another state and one in another country.
I am a very friendly little guy and I love spending all day hanging out with people. I love to play with toys and fetch. I would love to find a home where my new forever family is home often as I don’t like being left alone for too long. I am not yet house trained so I do require a bit of patient training in this department, and I do not get along with other dogs. I am sort of okay with cats. You can come and meet me at the Mount Alexander Animal Welfare shelter in Castlemaine by calling 5472 5277. Microchip no. 941000019438791.
Link: www.maaw.org.au (Pick me, pick me is run in memory of Rosie & Curly - we picked them.) And proudly supported by Daylesford's
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Now it may sound sad, especially if you are used to big celebrations, but we have had some of our best Christmases alone. Two were in Queensland, one in Cairns and one on the Gold Coast. The Cairns one was quirky. We bundled up some chicken and bread rolls and champagne (simple tastes) and headed to some waterfalls known as the Crystal Cascades. It was really hot and muggy and we ate and drank a little and then decided to go for a swim. But the water was dark and we kept thinking about crocodiles and in the end we freaked ourselves out and packed up the picnic. We then headed back into town, watched a James Bond movie at the cinema and then had dinner at a Chinese restaurant - which was packed with Chinese tourists oddly enough. Wouldn't you think they would be at an Australian restaurant sampling kanga and emu meat. Eating the coat of arms of Australia. Quick fact. The emu and the kangaroo were chosen for the coat of arms because neither of them can walk backwards. So Australia is always moving forwards. Hmm. The second Queensland orphans' Christmas saw me working for the day. I was a Japanese speaking driver guide - back in the 90s - and the day started with picking up my itinerary from a darkened Gold Coast office about 3am then driving to collect my passengers from Brisbane Airport about 4.30am. Then it was a day of fun, taking them to their hotels, then off to a sheep/ whipcracking place for breakfast, then Movieworld for the day, then out to dinner. Kyle, who was not working that day, kept calling asking when I would be back. I finally turned up about 9pm and found a veritable seafood feast spread out on the floor as an indoor picnic. It was fantastic but had not been without difficulty. Kyle had gone to buy all the goods from a local supermarket but at the checkout his card was declined. The staffer, instead of saying "do you have another card?" said nastily "you don't have any money in your account". So Kyle said something equally unpleasant back and stormed off. Of course, he rallied, worked out his finances and returned, after a shift change, and shopped again. He is nothing if not determined. Not sure what we will do this year, only seven sleeps left to work it out, but I am sure lots of food and drink will be involved. And a few calls to friends and family. Maybe a present or two. It's been another funny, peculiar, not ha-ha, year. Covid is still sort of wandering around, but at least we don't have that same fear which I don't think anyone from other states understand. And that terrible accident has taken its toll on many people and continues to be in the headlines. So I hope you get a chance to have a bit of a silly season. I think we all need a bit of silliness or joy or whatever makes you smile. And drink the champagne (unless you are an abstainer!) and eat the pavlova and spread a bit of good cheer. Our next edition is out January 1, 2024. The New Year. So this is my chance to say thanks for reading, for advertising, for supporting and for enjoying a publication that is all about Connecting the Community. Have a wonderful Christmas, or whatever it is that you do, and catch you in the New Year. I hope it's a good one, without any fear. Just sayin'...
24 Crossword
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W RD
CROSS
Merry Christmas
Here is the crossword solution for Edition 294. How did you go? All words in the crossword appear somewhere in the same edition of The Local. Our cruciverbalist is on leave until January 15. So no crossword in the January 1 edition. Maybe try sudoku...
& Happy 2024!
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15 Mink Street Daylesford
Business Directory - Support Local! Tree Removal Tree Pruning Stump Grinding Cable & Bracing Wind & Storm Damage Weight Reduction Fully Insured
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
Chris Mackenzie - Qualified Arborist
0407 768 477 chris@ascenttreesolutions.com.au
Office: 19 Albert Street, Trentham 3458
DAYLESFORD APPLIANCE SERVICE
www.ascenttreesolutions.com.au
das3460@bigpond.com
electrical appliance repair service washer, dryer, fridge, dishwasher, oven, cook top etc. Call Kiyo on
0419 267 685
das3460@bigpond.com
Garden Maintenance
Malone Tree Services Liam Malone . Limited Access . Fully Insured .Specialists Qualified . Mulching Available
0423 945 436
For the best looking garden in the street...
Call our new franchisee James Lindsay today for a free quote on 131 546
Your local Jim’s team can help
For all your LPG needs WHY ELGAS? Australia's largest LPG provider Easy online ordering Flexible plans to suit your needs Free and reliable delivery from ay Stihl Shop Daylesford Sign up tod Local Safe Reliable
131 161 elgas.com.au
Servicing commercial refrigeration domestic and commercial air conditioning
Sales-Service-Maintenance-Installation -Mobile coolroom hire Garry Rodoni: 0417 734 206 Chris Milham: 0436 402 730
trenthamselfstorage@outlook.com
Business Directory - Buy Local SWIFT CONVEYANCING KIRSTIE SWIFT Licenced Conveyancer 0451 065 913 kirstie@swiftconvey.com.au PO Box 256, Daylesford, Vic 3460
swiftconveyancingvictoria.com.au
Consulting in Administration & Management Book-keeping Administration Payroll Temp service Supplier monthly reconciliation Qualified to manage a small team of office workers Christ Jules Services Julie Hanson 0459 619 701 julphil.hanson@gmail.com
Ph:0434 357 882
www.christjulesservices.com.au
REMOVALISTS
LET US HELP YOU MOVE TO YOUR HOME WITH OUR CARING FRIENDLY TEAM No matter if you are moving to our region for the first time, moving to the big smoke or just moving down the road - we will take care of you and your prized possessions like it’s our own home we are moving.
Josh Nicholas | 0431 764 750 Professional Arborists servicing the Hepburn Shire.
Peace of Mind. Reliable Friendly Service. Locally owned and operated.
Call 03 5348 6611 www.oztrans.com.au
jueshuex@yahoo.com | thetreedavinci.com.au F R E I G H T · T R A N S P O RT · R E M OVA L S DAYLESFO RD A ND CENTRA L HIGH LA ND S
REGULAR RUNS TO MELBOURNE GEELONG BALLARAT AND BENDIGO
DELIVERING THE REGION’S BEST FREIGHT FOR OVER 25 YEARS. BULK DRY FREIGHT PRODUCE CARTAGE BULK REFRIGERATED FREIGHT PARCELS AND PALLETS
FURNITURE REMOVALS FURNITURE DELIVERY ART AND SCULPTURE MELBOURNE DEPOT LARGE & SMALL TRUCKS
Peace of Mind. Reliable Friendly Service. Locally owned and operated.
Call 03 5348 6611 www.oztrans.com.au
Ballan Ballan Plumbing Pl20u007 m065b410 ing ABN: ABN: 20 007 065 410
Licenced Plumbers & Gasfitters F R E I G H T · T R A N S P O RT · R E M OVA L S DAY LES FORD AND CENTRAL HIGH LANDS
REGULAR RUNS TO MELBOURNE GEELONG BALLARAT AND BENDIGO
5368 1036 / 0419106518 www.ballanplumbing.com.au
Artists of the Central Highlands
with Eve Lamb