The Local February 27, 2023 Isuue 274

Front cover: ChillOut 23 is almost here and the excitement is building. Check out the opposite page about the latest acts to join, the next two pages for the program and then read about all the amazing things you can get up to over the long weekend. Find your wings and enjoy!

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The Local is a fortnightly community publication covering the Central Highlands of Victoria.

The next edition is out on Monday, March 13, 2023. or online on Sunday, March 12 at www.tlnews.com.au

Space bookings: Wednesday, March 8

Copy deadline: Thursday, March 9

Editorial deadline: Thursday, March 9

Editor: Donna Kelly on 0418 576 513 or news@tlnews.com.au

Editorial assistant: Eve Lamb on 0493 632 843 or editorial@tlnews.com.au

General manager: Kyle Barnes on 0416 104 283 or kyle@tlnews.com.au

Account manager: Linda Mooney on 0493 673 149 or sales@tlnews.com.au

Sub-editors: Nick Bunning, Lindsay Smith & Chester the Cat

Writers: Eve Lamb, Kevin Childs, Tony Sawrey, Jeff Glorfeld, Narelle Groenhout, & Donna Kelly

Photographers: Kyle Barnes & David White

Graphic designer: Dianne Caithness

Contributors: Glen Heyne (gardening), Darren Lowe (music) and Jen Clarke (recipes).

Accounts | Julie Hanson Delivery | Tony Sawrey

Image: Michelle Donnelly

The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

Get ready - it's almost time to ChillOut

SOME fresh faces and feel-good favourites join the line-up as ChillOut Festival approaches.

Choir of Hard Knocks and Lion will perform at the annual LGBTQIA+ pride festival event.

Australia's most famous choir was introduced to the public in 2006 in the awardwinning ABC TV series Choir of Hard Knocks. Now in its 16th year, they continue on their journey, with some of the original members from the award-winning documentary, to ChillOut Festival’s annual carnival day.

The choir is an incredible tool for members to overcome social isolation and homelessness through the joy and connection of singing.

Also joining the line-up is queer, black electropop/alt artist, singer, songwriter, producer and dancer Lion who recently wowed audiences at Big Sound festival and the Midsumma Festival Victoria’s Pride street party.

They join a star-studded rainbow line-up including MCs Nate Byrne and Art Simone, Kate Miller-Heidke, Karen From Finance, The Lost Girls, Cerulean (Miss First Nation 2021), Jude Perl, Elektra Lite, Tuck Shop Ladies, Greg Gould, Freddie Merkin, Dean Arcuri, DJ Eddie, Diamond and York and DJ Du Jour.

Festival ambassadors Rudy Jean Rigg, commissioner for LGBTQIA+ Communities Dr Todd Fernando, Sally Goldner and Jude Munroe will also make appearances.

Festival director Emma Ireland said that ChillOut Festival was for the whole LGBTQIA+ community, young and old, city and country. “We’re so excited that Lion will bring his high energy, joyful performance to the stage in Daylesford.”

The ongoing and regular contact the Choir of Hard Knocks provides to the members has had a profound effect on their lives, leading many of the original 52 back to either part-time or full-time study or work.

Many had become socially excluded due to their socio-economic circumstances, and the choir has enabled them to acquire new skills and rebuild personal confidence and self-esteem, which Ms. Ireland said “is the goal of ChillOut Festival for the broader LGBTQIA+ community, and the essence of this year’s theme ‘Find Your Wings’”.

“ChillOut Festival was founded on the principle of being a safe space for people to be themselves, connect, to create and celebrate community. The Choir of Hard Knocks is a gorgeous example of that in action. ChillOut is a space for people to overcome social isolation to connect with community. We are thrilled to have them perform at ChillOut Festival.”

The full festival program features over 50 events running over five days around Daylesford and Hepburn Springs. Events will range from large late night outdoor dance parties, circus, drag and comedy shows, and a Sunday morning street parade, to the more intimate, like art gallery exhibitions, social drinks, speed dating, all-gender sport events, and rainbow storytime. (Check out pages 4 and 5 in this edition of The Local.)

ChillOut Festival will run from March 9-13 (Victoria’s Labour Day long weekend) in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, with events also organised in nearby towns Clunes and Creswick.

Lion will perform at Ballroom Blitz on Saturday, March 11, 8pm–midnight.

Choir of Hard Knocks will perform at Carnivale, Victoria Park on Sunday, March 12, 11am-5pm.

Link: www.chilloutfestival.com.au

The Local Publishing Group is proud to once again be ChillOut's Media Partner. See you in the parade!

Above, Choir of Hard Knocks, centre, Lion, below, MCs Nate Byrne and Art Simone in last year's ChillOut Grand Parade

Images: contributed and, below, Michelle Donnelly

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

Council met for the first time this calendar year on 21 February. It is very pleasing to report that a Disability Action Plan for 2023-26 was adopted and the new terms of reference for the Gender Equity Advisory Committee were endorsed.

Council prepared the Disability Action Plan in partnership with our Disability Advisory Committee. Through the development of the action plan, we have identified opportunities to improve access to Council services and facilities to eliminate barriers that may prevent or inhibit access and inclusion by people living with disability.

The February Council meeting also endorsed a special rates charge to fund the Solar Savers program for another 15 residences. The program was first delivered in Hepburn Shire in 2018, and 2022/2023 is the fifth round offered to eligible residents. Solar Savers is amongst the first programs in Australia enabling households to install solar photovoltaic systems (solar PV) and pay them off through a special charge scheme over 8 years.

An affordable housing forum was held on 8 February, attended by a diverse audience of interested parties. The forum’s outcomes will help shape Council’s strategy, but discussions again highlighted the need for Council to better inform the community on its powers, ability to influence through advocacy and the resources available at its disposal to address what is a critical issue.

Council recently celebrated the completion of its successful Artisan Agriculture Project. Key project stakeholders and special guest speaker Annie Smithers shared their stories about the fruits of their labours and their growing vision for small-scale artisan agriculture in the Central Highlands region. Key achievements of the project were:

• delivering 15 events to 432 participants

• awarding $34,000 in grants to 18 artisan agriculturalists

• providing individual professional mentoring support to 29 artisan producers and growers

• establishing an online food hub for the region (Central Highlands Growers Collective)

• connecting regulators with producers to share understanding of the sector’s unique challenges.

• collating a database of 370+ artisan producers and related stakeholders in the region

• conducting and disseminating 6 ‘Meet the Maker’ interviews with local artisan producers

• developing a repository of marketing materials, including imagery, to use in future promotions/initiatives for the sector.

At the time of writing, AEMO has just made a major announcement on the VNI West project. There is mixed news for Hepburn Shire in that announcement and much more work to be done. Council’s media release can be found at www.hepburn.vic.gov.au

Cr Brian Hood MAYOR

AREAS

NEW DISABILITY ACTION PLAN

Council has a new Disability Action Plan that will guide its actions in removing barriers and making adjustments to help provide an equitable experience for people living with disability.

The plan was developed in partnership with its Disability Advisory Committee, with committee members helping to identify the most meaningful and beneficial priority actions. The action plan includes a range of priorities, from raising community awareness and encouraging opportunities for employment and inclusion, through to advocating to other levels of government for improved health, housing and transport services.

We would like to thank committee members for their input and also thank those who took the time to review the draft plan and provide feedback. You can view the plan on our websitewww.hepburn.vic.gov.au

YOUR TOWN YOUR FUTURE

Council will develop a range of plans and strategies in 2023 and 2024 that will guide the future of townships across the Shire. These include township Structure Plans, Urban Design Frameworks, Neighbourhood Character Assessments, Integrated Transport Strategy, Agriculture Land Study and Rural Settlement Strategy. This is part of the strategic planning work that Council is doing to protect and enhance the natural and built environment to improve livability in our Shire. Throughout this process we will be seeking input from the community to inform these documents. Watch this space.

CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

Join friends, family and community at a special evening to celebrate local women and their contribution to Hepburn Shire this International Women’s Day (IWD). IWD is celebrated on 8 March each year. Since 2005, Hepburn Shire Council has held an annual event to celebrate this day and to induct new members onto the Heather Mutimer Honour Roll.

The honour roll was established to pay tribute to women in the Shire whose contributions, courage and examples have led to significant social change for women.

When: Wednesday 8 March from 6pm to 8pm

Where: Daylesford Town Hall, 76 Vincent Street. For catering purposes please RSVP at www.trybooking.com/CFVON or at a Council Customer Service Office.

STORM BOOK

After the June 2021 storm Council compiled a book of stories. We are planning to do a second print run for the people who missed out. Please email us on kmexted@hepburn.vic.gov.au if you would like to order a $25 copy. There is a copy of the book at each of the Hepburn Shire Libraries for loan if you wish to read it. We’ve also put a copy in each of the cafes in Trentham and the Cosmopolitan Hotel. We plan to reprint mid-March, so please get your orders in as soon as possible.

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.

Table tennis for life

Just briefly...

An additional consultation report into the Victoria to New South Wales Interconnector West project was released last Thursday by the Australian Energy Market Operator and Transgrid.

The terminal station proposed for Mount Prospect is no longer the preferred option. However, commenting on the report, Hepburn Shire Mayor Cr Brian Hood said the largely unchanged power line route and significantly larger towers recommended in the report were of major concern.

“The report recommends an increase in the overhead power lines from 220kV (kilovolt) to 500kV through our shire. This would require significantly larger towers, which will have an even greater impact on our important landscapes, farming and the community.”

The report, a summary document and information on how to provide feedback are available at www.aemo.com.au/initiatives/major-programs/vni-west. Feedback is due by April 5.

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is calling on residents and visitors to support their favourite local businesses by nominating them for the inaugural Telstra Macedon Ranges Community Choice Awards.

Nominations for the awards close on March 24. Voting opens on April 1 and closes June 2. Link: mrsc.vic.gov.au/community-choice

IT IS comfortable to assume that local sporting clubs are a permanent part of the fabric of any town. As if they have been there since the beginning and will never disappear.

However the social disruptions caused by Covid over the past few years has seen many community organisations fall by the wayside. Daylesford has been no exception with several sporting clubs closing their doors.

However the Daylesford Table Tennis Association has proved to be an exception. It continues to have regular social and competition gatherings as it has always done since the 1950s.

“Cricket, basketball and squash have all folded,” says club president Monty Osewald. “It has been tough the last few years but we have survived.”

The club is located in Victoria Park in a shed built by members in 1985. It has six tables and holds regular sessions servicing the table tennis needs of over 30 people of all ages and genders. Though that number is down slightly from the 40 or more who used to duke it out in the '50s it is still an impressive number of players.

“We take all comers and our members range in age from teenagers to over 60s," says Monty.

“People can be a little isolated out in the countryside at times but our club is a great place to meet and socialise, even over the winter months.”

Table tennis first emerged in the middle of the 19th century in Victorian England and due to its compact indoor layout, it is now enjoyed worldwide and even became an Olympic sport in 1988. And because beginners can engage with the game almost straight away it has become a common recreational pastime among players of all ages.

At the Daylesford club the oldest player is Ron Hewson who says; “Table tennis is a game you can play all your life.”

Another senior player is Jane Bradfield who came to the sport seven years ago. “It is dead easy,” she says, “and I got into it through U3A. I was a horse rider previously. I have coaching every week and there is a lot to learn.

“The most important technique is brushing up on the ball, you don’t just whack it; it is all art. I mostly play doubles, simply and purely because I'm not a chicken anymore and you have more time between the shots.”

As Jane mentioned, the association has initiated a professional coaching program for players of all levels to improve their game skills, which commenced early February and is running for five weeks. It was made possible by a Hepburn Shire Community Sporting Grant and costs only $1 per session. And there are more opportunities to come.

“We are currently setting up a program in the second school term (early May) for 12- to 18-year-olds,” says Monty, “where we will have the participants bussed down here to play and get coaching.”

If you are keen to have a go at table tennis, social play takes place every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 10am to 12 noon with a competition evening held every Wednesday from 7.30 pm to 9.30pm. Annual membership is $100 otherwise the walk-in cost is $3 per session. For more information or membership queries contact Monty on 0448 667 738, Link: www.facebook.com/DaylesfordTableTennis/

International Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8 and since 2005, Hepburn Shire Council has held an annual event to celebrate this day and to induct new members onto the Heather Mutimer Honour Roll.

The event will be held at the Daylesford Town Hall on Wednesday, March 8 from 6pm to 8pm. Professor Paula Gerber, from the Faculty of Law at Monash University, and leading expert on international human rights law, is guest speaker. RSVPs for catering at www.trybooking.com/CFVON or at a council customer service office.

Farewell & Thank you

Dr Jon Barrell

Springs Medical would like to acknowledge our amazing Dr Jon Barrell, who after more than 30 years in general practice and over ten years as a director of Springs, has announced his retirement.

Jon has been a great advocate of exceptional patient focussed care for our communities and we will miss his support and commitment to our team.

On behalf of our entire Springs Medical Family, we would like to congratulate Jon as he celebrates his well deserved retirement with his beautiful family.

Thank you Dr Barrell.

A

message

from Jon

Springs Medical’s Dr Jon Barrell has decided to rest his stethoscope after 36 years in General Practice in Daylesford and Trentham and surrounds.

Jon had completed his training in GP, Emergency Medicine, Anaesthetics & Intensive care, and Obstetrics & Gynaecology in Dandenong and London.

Jon, Maureen and 3 month old baby Michael then arrived in Daylesford on Australia Day 1986. Daughter Stephanie was born 5 years after Michael.

Jon and Maureen are eternally grateful for the welcome and support they have received from so so many - their families and each other, the wonderful patients, the generous friends, the fabulous hospital and aged care staff in Daylesford and Trentham and amazing Springs Medical teams past and present. They are especially proud of the generational change in rural medical and allied health services that they have been a part of, and are proud to pass the baton to the next generation.

They will continue to live here while Jon plots a midlife career change to a part time GP & Emergency Medicine locum near and far.

Players Jane Bradfield and Tony Succio

Words & image: Tony Sawrey

(Love it, but not enough good paths...)

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Jon: A wonderful life in a country practice

JON Barrell says he didn’t know what retirement looked like, so a few years back he took some time off, headed to the outback with wife

Maureen and “sat under a tree” for a bit of thinking time.

The first move was to sell his share of Springs Medical Centre - that happened in 2021. And then in February this year he hung up his stethoscope after 36 years in general practice – in Daylesford, Trentham and surrounds.

Many long-term patients, some belonging to generations he has cared for, have wished him well saying they knew the day would come along eventually. They are pleased for him, but sorry for themselves to lose a much loved doctor. Others, Jon says with a wry smile, “are probably happy to see grumpy Jon go”.

Jon says he wasa sickly infant and child, which ultimately led to his medical career, but not in the way you would think.

“I was going to be a maths teacher but with my parents in grave fear for my health, I was home-schooled by Mum and did three years in two. That meant I was young in year 12, just 16. I thought I would go wandering but Dad said: ‘No, university’.

“I thought I might do marine science and get a job in Townsville, as far away from home as possible, but I got my results and thought ‘I could be a doctor’. I wasn’t really keen to do medicine, but I thought if I didn’t like it I could change to science.”

He did like it, and already thinking about becoming a country GP, Jon graduated in 1980 and headed to Dandenong to do a two-year internship. “I thought a suburban hospital would be better grounding than a tertiary centre in the city. I did obstetrics, anaesthetics, intensive care and emergency and then went to England to do obstetrics because there was a lot more hands-on experience.”

Jon returned to Dandenong for another year in anaesthetics – all the skill sets he believed he needed to be a GP in the country.

With their first child Michael on the way, to be followed five years later by Stephanie, Jon and Maureen chose Daylesford for their next chapter and moved on Australia Day 1986 and started work with Dr Fred Eggleston and Dr Brian Coles - at the business that would eventually morph into Springs Medical - the next Monday.

Jon says the work of a GP changed enormously over his career. “People live longer so they have more chronic disease, and the level of intervention has significantly increased. The treatment once for heart attack was lie in bed and wait until you got better, now there are stents and angioplasty…the number of vaccines has vastly increased.

“When I went to medical school there was no HIV or Hepatitis C, and of course, Covid had never been noted. I presumed if you read the textbook you would learn all the things you needed to know. Being a GP today is vastly more complex and detailed but I still love the work.”

Jon said he chose to move to the country to be involved in the community. He is a stalwart at the Hepburn Springs Golf Club where he is “indebted to the friendship and support network for both myself and Maureen” and also did a four-year stint as a councillor with the Hepburn Shire Council. He re-nominated, failed to get the votes, “was sorry for about a day” and then got on with life. Maureen has banned him from standing again.

Being a part of the community means there are also a few “tricky questions” out of hours but on the whole people are respectful of boundaries, he says. “During Covid and all those phone consultations, no-one ever rang me inappropriately. And doctors aren’t special. Electricians, carpenters, all manner of people in the service industries do the same thing. People have emergency needs and I say it is not a bother, it is part of living in the country.”

Patients Googling symptoms before they see him doesn’t both Jon either. “People have always done that. When I was a child, families would save up for a set of World Book encyclopaedias to look up things, or Ma Evans’ herbal textbook. My job is to nut things out and give advice. What’s going on here, what are the serious red flags, what is the most appropriate path – and then arrive at a diagnosis.”

Like everyone, but perhaps more than the general public, Jon has been navigating Covid for the past three years and says it has “been horrible”. “For the nation, for the people, for the health professionals, for every other industry, it has been horrible. There are just so many different components, the fear of getting Covid, vaccine issues, the mandate issues, hand hygiene and PPE. The logistics of going into a healthcare facility – everything takes longer.

“Working in full PPE is awful. It has changed general practice remarkably but full credit to the government of the day and to general practices and the health industry, I think we were all surprised at how nimble the government and general practices were to find different ways to do things like iso pods and telephone consultations.

“But sitting in your spare bedroom at home with your feet in the cupboard, facing the wall with your laptop and mobile phone and wobbly internet and wifi connections, and wondering how you are going to print and scan and post – the novelty wore off after about two days.

“Thankfully I think we are on the far side of things but the notion that health professionals will wear a mask for the rest of our days is challenging to me. Let’s hope that doesn’t happen.”

So, after those days under the trees, what does retirement look like after 36 years? It turns out Jon has not quite given up the stethoscope.

Jon says he will get some travelling in, mostly around Australia this year, but also take on some locum work as both a GP and in emergency medicine. He already has his first post lined up at Alexandra and will be back at Springs for Good Friday.

“I still feel like I have another 10 years of work in me and finally I will get to choose when and where. I think after 36 years I have earned that right.”

And also after 36 years of a “sometimes difficult and very demanding life”, Jon thanks Maureen, Michael and Stephanie for their support.

“I could not have done what I have done without their support. The life of a country GP can be very demanding on the family. Maureen was a mothercraft nurse before we married, she has always loved children, and it was her choice to be a stay-at-home mum at our place at Coomoora. And we know we were very fortunate to be able to do that. Horses were always her interest and she has passed that on to Stephanie. And Michael always played golf with me. It’s been a wonderful life.”

Words: Donna Kelly | Images: Kyle Barnes and contributed

Race tragedy shocks speedway community

A founding member of Daylesford Speedway has spoken of the shock in the wake of this month’s tragic death of a driver following a high speed crash.

Poowong resident Stephen Douglas, 48, was competing at the Daylesford Speedway track around 7.30pm on Saturday, February 11 when his Ford Falcon crashed, horrifying spectators.

“It was a very, very unfortunate accident,” Daylesford Speedway founding member, past president and promoter Harry Carman says.

“It’s the first time there’s ever been a tragic accident at the speedway in all of the years since it began in 1956 so that’s about 67 years. It’s subject to very rigorous scrutineering and safety protocols. It’s very strictly controlled.”

Harry was at the track on the Saturday night when the accident happened, but was working on the gate and did not personally witness the high-speed crash. However, he saw the aftermath with Mr Douglas’ vehicle left upturned, while onlookers described the incident as “surreal”.

Mr Douglas, a Poowong resident and CFA volunteer known to friends and family as “Dougo”, began racing almost three decades ago in 1994. A photo had been taken after he won a heat just hours before the fatal crash.

“We’re just very sorry for the family,” Harry said. “My personal condolences go to the family. And I would also like to convey my gratitude to all the emergency services who attended – including ambulance, Vic Police, SES...they were really on the ball. All the emergency services were very fast on the scene.”

Having previously served as the Daylesford Speedway president and promoter for 26 years, Harry is a Daylesford local whose personal history with the speedway dates back to his own childhood. He is among local residents and Speedway community members left shocked and saddened by the incident.

“The speedway started in 1956 and it all started to raise funds for the RSL,” Harry said. “It’s been going for so many years and it brings a lot of money into the town. I helped my father and grandfather plant pine trees there as a little kid. The trees aren’t there now though.

“It’s got a good track record. We may have had a broken arm or leg over the years, but this is the first time we’ve ever had a tragic accident in all those years.”

Mr Douglas, who worked in the agriculture industry, was an experienced driver, having raced competitively for around 10 years and volunteered at Nyora Raceway. He was also a member at Drouin Speedway and a Country Fire Authority volunteer for his local community of Poowong, 116km south-east of Melbourne. A second man was taken to Ballarat Base Hospital in a stable condition with upper body injuries.

Daylesford Speedway held a gathering on February 16 for those struggling to cope with the incident, calling for any volunteers, helpers, officials, drivers, spectators and their families to attend. Counsellors were on hand to help.

If this story has raised any issues you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or head to Beyond Blue at www.beyondblue.org.au

Words: Eve Lamb | Images: Contributed & Kyle Barnes

Left, the late Stephen Douglas after winning his heat in the Chivers Memorial race, right, Daylesford Speedway founding member, past president and promoter Harry Carman

Blackwood hosts Australian Gold Panning Championships

BASALT grandmother Verna Baker is flexing her forearms to compete in the Australian Gold Panning Championships at Blackwood this Saturday, March 4.

Verna is a dab hand with the gold pan. She’s been honing her gold panning prowess since the age of five.

Over the years she’s found “probably 100 specks” of gold – enough to have turned into a lovely little gold pendant.

“I’ll be competing in the women’s skilled, the veterans’ and the teams’ categories on Saturday,” says Verna, 68, who has plenty of other “golden” aspects to her life as well, including farming daffodils.

Another golden facet to Verna’s life is the fact that this year marks the professional childcare educator’s 50th anniversary of working at local kindergartens.

“I love my work,” says Verna who has worked at pre-schools across the shire and beyond, including Daylesford, Hepburn, Franklinford, Glenlyon, Creswick, Clunes and Wallace.

And there’s no doubt the kinder kids at Daylesford Preschool, where Verna currently works three days a week - and at all the other little local kinders where she’s worked over the years - return the love.

For one thing, Verna not only teaches the littlies how to gold pan, sharing her enjoyment of the sport that gets her out into some beautiful places, she also brings in small animals from her Basalt farm to teach them about caring for critters and to impart her own love of nature.

Verna has won many firsts and seconds in the women’s skilled gold panning competition and team event prizes over the years she’s been competing in the gold panning competitions.

The mother of three and grandmother of four – who also runs a native tree nursery and volunteers with Franklinford CFA - is keenly anticipating this Saturday’s competition.

“It’s a really, really fun day,” she says.

Run by the Victorian Gold Panning Association, the annual Australian Gold Panning Championships are expected to draw around 100 competitors from near and far.

Victorian Gold Panning Association president Marcus Binks is also keenly anticipating the event which he says offers good competition for all skill levels from established champs to those who have never wielded a gold pan before in their lives.

“It’s a great family event and really we’re trying to preserve the history of gold panning,” says Marcus, a geologist by profession who has a couple of national gold panning championship titles to his name.

“I’ve been gold panning since I was a kid and I started at the first Australian championships that were held at Sovereign Hill in 1993,” he says.

This year's event will see gold panners racing against the clock to find a number of tiny golden pieces that have been carefully pre-counted and hidden in sand buckets.

“We even provide pans for those who have never panned before,” Marcus says.

At the top end of the competitive spectrum the competition is keen and close and the addition of an electronic timing system in recent times comes in handy.

“We have a heap of prizes on offer including two metal detectors,” Marcus says. The championships are taking place at the Blackwood Cricket Ground on Recreation Reserve Road and getting along to watch the competition as a spectator is free.

“It’s a great way to come and learn about panning,” Marcus says.

“We’ll have catering by the Ballan First Scouts and a coffee van. We’re affiliated with the World Gold Panning Championships and we get competitors from New Zealand coming over. They really like our competition. We also get them from interstate - Queensland and Western Australia.”

Words: Eve Lamb. Images: Kyle Barnes

New disability plan

Hepburn Shire Council has a new Disability Action Plan that will guide its actions in removing barriers and making adjustments to help provide an equitable experience for people living with disability.

The plan was developed in partnership with its Disability Advisory Committee, with committee members helping to identify the most meaningful and beneficial priority actions.

The action plan includes a range of priorities, from raising community awareness and encouraging opportunities for employment and inclusion, through to advocating to other levels of government for improved health, housing and transport services.

Deputy Mayor Lesley Hewitt is chair of the council’s Disability Advisory Committee. Cr Hewitt said disability can be different for everyone.

“Disability can mean any kind of impairment, whether existing at birth or acquired through illness, accident, or the ageing process. It ranges from cognitive impairment and physical, sensory, intellectual, and psycho-social disability.

“Individuals may encounter physical barriers, digital barriers and barriers of attitudes and communication that impact on their ability to equitably participate in society. Our focus in this plan is on removing barriers and implementing changes that provide an equitable experience for people with disability,” she said.

The plan covers a range of priorities including inclusive communities, health, housing and wellbeing, fairness and safety, and opportunity and pride.

“A big shift with this plan is the focus on ‘invisible disabilities’ including neurological, cognitive and sensory disabilities,” Cr Hewitt said.

The plan has been created in the context of a raft of changes in recent years, including the review of the National Disability Insurance Scheme, development of Australia’s Disability Strategy 2021–2031 and Inclusive Victoria: State disability plan 2022-2026, along with the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability.

The action plan is available at www.hepburn.vic.gov.au

Over the years she’s found “probably 100 specks” of gold – enough to have turned into a lovely little gold pendant.

OP EN M ORNI NG

STAGE 1: BLAMPIED-KOOROOCHEANg ROAD to EAST STREET

Central Highlands Water is securing Daylesford’s long-term water supply. Our $15 million project investment will support the region’s future growth and climate resilience.

When completed, the Daylesford Water Supply Pipeline will be able to deliver more than 300 million additional litres per annum of supplementary raw water for the community, complementing the Wombat and Bullarto Reservoirs.

Construction of the Daylesford Water Supply Pipeline is occurring within existing road reserves and power easements where possible, connecting the Goldfields Superpipe in Blampied to the Daylesford Water Treatment Plant.

While every effort will be made to reduce construction impacts, the works will require the use of heavy plant, equipment and excavation machinery. This will result in some noise and dust during the works.

Changes to road conditions may include temporary partial road closures. Traffic controllers will be onsite where needed to help road users.

We thank you for your support during the construction of this major project.

For more information and project updates:

chw.net.au/daylesfordwater

B ALLARA T AND QUE E N’ S ANGLICAN GRAMM A R SCHOO L

Artists of the Central Highlands

Creswick’s Lyn Cooke has established herself as one of Victoria’s leading wildlife artists. Her work is admired for its detail and beauty as she challenges herself to capture not just the physical appearance of her subjects but also their intrinsic nature – or “jizz” as the birdos call it. Here this talented local artist shares some insights into her love of portraying our exquisite native wildlife.

Eve: How do you prefer to describe your artistic style?

Lyn: Realism, in that I attempt to represent the natural world in a detailed and accurate manner. I don’t always succeed, but at least my subjects generally have the appropriate number of eyes or legs.

Eve: How did you come to art?

Lyn: In common with many artists, I have had an enthusiasm for drawing ever since I was old enough to hold a pencil. I am largely self-taught.

Eve: Which artists have influenced your own work?

Lyn: Too many to list, but I will mention Ray Harris Ching and William Cooper. There is a long tradition of wildlife art in Australia beginning with the illustrations of Lewin and the Goulds, and continuing until the present day.

Eve: What is your media of choice?

After sketching my main subject matter, backgrounds are usually done with an airbrush and pigmented inks. Watercolour paint is then applied, often combined with gouache (an opaque water-based medium). Detail is gradually built up using very fine brushwork and a lot of patience.

Eve: What is your subject matter of choice? Why so?

Lyn: I am known for my wildlife paintings. This is a consequence of my interest in natural history. Nature offers a vast range of subject matter and inspiration. Australian fauna, particularly our beautiful and varied birdlife, is my preferred subject matter.

Eve: Have you ever worked in any other area besides art?

Lyn: I was a primary teacher for a couple of decades, but I think I survived largely unscathed.

Eve: To date, what have been your career highlights as an artist?

Lyn: Finding that I could make a living from my art was a major achievement. I’ve always been passionate about not starving to death.

Eve: Do you have any exhibitions or special events coming up?

Lyn: My studio is open most days by appointment and work can also be seen at Overwrought, Blampied. Other exhibitions and contact details can be found on my website www.lyncooke.com

Eve: What do you think are the main challenges for practicing artists today? And the main rewards?

Lyn: Art allows me to share the beauty of our natural environment and, hopefully, help people to appreciate its beauty and the need to preserve it. On a personal level, it is a creative, absorbing and relaxing activity - when things are going well. I don’t know how an artist retires: old artists never die; they just draw flies.

with Eve Lamb

"Finding that I could make a living from my art was a major achievement. I’ve always been passionate about not starving to death."

Finding a father

by ABC broadcast journalist Nicole Chvastek

BEAMING with pride my brother proudly showed me the most lurid tie I’d ever seen – all colour and movement. It had been a treasured Father’s Day gift and while I saw lurid – he saw beautiful because the giver was a beloved son.

It is a magical relationship, that bond between parent and child. As a kid growing up in New Zealand I’d never known who my biological father was. That meant I never quite knew who I was either, although fate sprinkled us in chances we passed by each other unknown.

My adopted family and I holidayed in Keri Keri, a stone’s throw from his village. Everyone in the district knew him. My holiday snaps show me as a grinning teenager casually draping my arms around family friends who lived near the town. They knew him well. But no-one knew he was the father of a white girl who visited from Auckland.

When I moved to Melbourne as a teenager he moved to Sydney to perform in a band called The Polynesians. I later saw publicity shots of him – four boys, all white smiles and brown skins draped in Hawaiian leis. I guess it didn’t matter that the publicity shots got the Polynesian origins wrong. Apparently you’ve seen one native you’ve seen em all.

The patronising ‘happy natives sing us a song’ stereotype really grated. Why was his worth diminished because he had brown skin? So he battled bigotry while I grew up in my white bread world. But he got through. He was handsome and charismatic and boy could he sing. No-one knew his pitch-perfect English was the result of white teachers who beat him as a six-year-old in the 1930s as punishment for daring to speak in his native Maori tongue. Dishing it out to the local little barbarians was de rigueur in those days.

I was a city-dwelling broadcast journalist, chasing newsmakers and deadlines in a daily frenetic blur, when I was given the information I needed to make contact.

I could not have imagined the story that emerged. He’d been born on a sandy white beach into the Nga Puhi tribe. His mother – my grandmother – was a fisherwoman whose husband drowned in a violent storm at sea while trying to reach a boat which had sent out a distress signal. Suddenly a single mother but determined her bright young boy would get his education, she caught fish every day from her ocean backyard, loaded it into saddle bags and then walked beside her pony for miles into the nearest town to sell it.

It was a tough way to make a living, but, when it was time the money was there and my father was dispatched to a nice white private boarding school in Auckland.

Life in New Zealand’s biggest city was alien for a Maori boy from the Bay of Islands. His wild environment taught him all he’d needed to know and his bay’s sapphire seas and ancient Kauri forests were his instructors. So, as he’d done in his small village primary school, he showed up at his first city high school class in bare feet. The teacher was outraged and ordered him to stand.

“Look at the savage!” she announced to his guffawing classmates.

He quickly learned about the humiliation and antipathy you can generate just by looking different. He’d already learned how to attract a belting by speaking another language. He learned how to fight. And he got his education.

Our first conversation was on the phone. It was painfully stilted. How do you talk to the man who is your father? Do you make nervous jokes? Do you adopt the reserve you would keep for a stranger? Or do you relax into the loving but manufactured banter of family conversation with someone you’ve never met?

The compromise was polite warmth.

He said it was lovely to hear my voice.

I could hear the exhaustion in his. My father had joined the Labour Party. By the time I’d found him he was a member of the New Zealand government.

In fact the Parliament was sitting and having a new daughter sprung on him while juggling the issues of state was the last thing he needed.

He apologised for the rushed call with a fatigued graciousness.

But we agreed that we should meet. And so I packed my best tourist t-shirts and flew over to Matauri Bay, the breathtakingly beautiful seaside village where he lived.

Getting there is a five hour trek north from Auckland. But the effort is rewarded. As you make your way to the top of the last hill at the end of a winding road, the landscape drops away dramatically to reveal the sparkling expanse of the Bay of Islands, its sea framed by a soaring blue sky and lush endless hills. Little picture postcard islands lie dotted off the coast where volcanic fury hurled them millions of years ago.

I drove down into the valley towards the sea at a crawl (my father warned me that tourists have been known to crash off the edge of the hill after being stunned like rabbits in headlights by the view). I stopped only briefly at a tiny white wooden church.

In its grounds were crumbling headstones with names and messages etched in the rock in that mystical Maori language. I tried to imagine the lives of the people who had lived in this beautiful but remote place. Who were they? In the silence I thought I felt wives, husbands, brothers, sisters. I also thought I’d never get this done if I didn’t snap out of it.

I continued on to find my father’s house. It wasn’t far away from where I’d stopped at the church, around a small headland and tucked into a cove overlooking the sea. On one side a line of giant grey rocks reached up from the waves and then tumbled down again into the next bay. In front me was the stretch of white beach where his mother had given birth in her rudimentary hut made of New Zealand fern. At the end of his driveway was a modern cottage he’d built for her when he decided she was too old to live in her tribal hut. Word was his mother never did like the shmick running water and the new-fangled electric light.

I pulled my standard issue hire car into a park and drew breath. He’d given me life but owed me zero. Who was I kidding? A couple of random genes entitled me to nothing. Here stands a white girl with a journalism degree from Australia.

A muscular Maori man appeared on the verandah and strode down the stairs towards me. His dark eyes were glowing and his face creased into a wide smile.

“Hello” he said and pulled me into a hug.

I stood uncomfortably in my silly tourist clothes with my silly suitcase on wheels behind me. But I recognised the line of this man’s jaw. Something about the timbre of his voice was profoundly familiar. So I hugged him back. And while it is true I remained a ring-in in that village, I was, in that moment, no longer a stranger.

Finding my own father has changed the way I see other people’s fathers. I’m endlessly in awe of how many people have ‘normal’ relationships with their dads. They see each other all the time. They get picked up from school. Their dads make speeches at their weddings. They play backyard cricket. They front up at Christmas in a red suit and a white beard.

I watch in delight as my adopted brothers here in Australia – now fathers themselves – receive their gifts of love from their own children. The rapturous celebrations over an ‘A’ plus for an essay written in that cute kiddie lettering. The gentle goodnights. I see that these are the greatest of stories.

And me? I’m happy with just a quiet nod in the direction of a little village in the north of New Zealand to the Maori bloke with the big smile who lives by the sea.

Keeping the Families of

Proud Supporters of the

Happy ChillOut!

Hepburn House residents are already getting into the celebration of all things ChillOut and LGBTI. As usual, they will be a welcome addition to the Grand Parade on Sunday and they are also celebrating the building of the new LGBTI and friends wing - which is really taking shape.

Manager Dianne Jones said the first step had been getting the Rainbow Tick, followed by the building of a wing which "ensures everybody in that wing, whether they are LGBTI or friends, are accepting of people’s choices". For information head to www.hepburnhouse.com.au, phone 5348 8100 or email reception@hepburnhouse.com.au

PORCUPINE RIDGE 67 Russells Road

SIMPLY STUNNING!

From the moment you open its bright red front door, this oneof-a-kind country retreat will take your breath away. Set on 15 acres of stunning native forest in beautiful Porcupine Ridge, this 50 square foot gem is the perfect place to call home or the ultimate weekender. A genuine labour of love, this home was designed to blend seamlessly with the spectacular

belleproperty.com

surroundings, with floor-to-ceiling windows in the living areas inviting the outside in. With all the luxury, modern conveniences you would expect from a property of this calibre, the space also honours the past by incorporating unique, recycled materials which were sourced from railways, bridges and even an old factory from the family business.

SMEATON 1 Alice Street

Quintessential country living in this stunning home set amidst rambling gardens and beautiful entertaining spaces. As the original homestead to the heritage listed Andersons Mill, the entrance to the Mill House is dramatic and fascinating with the home tucked privately behind lush gardens. Detached from the main house, opportunities abound with a romantic chapel, two studio bedrooms and an original bluestone building thought to be the original kitchen and bakehouse.

TRENTHAM 111 Blue Mount Road

LIFESTYLE LIVING

Set on 4.3 acres of low density residential zoned land mere minutes to the Trentham town centre, this property will provide loads of room for the kids to thrive, offer an opportunity to keep horses or other livestock or perhaps further develop the land holding (subject to STCA).

Brand new, just move in and enjoy the amazing space, or keep as a lowmaintenance investment. As a furnished letting, it's ready to go, with all contents in pristine condition available by separate negotiation. Don't leave it too late, inspections are encouraged early on to avoid disappointment.

belleproperty.com/222P406398

DAYLESFORD 57 Duke Street

DESIGNER HOME, DREAM LOCATION

The checklist for your dream Daylesford property will surely feature an attractive, comfortable home, private surrounds where you can relax and entertain and of course a stellar, central address. 57 Duke Street returns an enthusiastic tick to each of these. With Cornish Hill Reserve behind you and lake Daylesford just a few hundred metres away, you are truly surrounded by Daylesford's best assets.

belleproperty.com/Daylesford

HEPBURN SPRINGS 6 Sixth Street

A HIDDEN HAVEN WITH DESIGNER DAZZLE

A most wanted poster prepared by those seeking a permanent treechange, holiday home or permanent rental/Airbnb would certainly describe this delightful retreat. Tucked away behind perennially popular Rubens Restaurant, it has all the identifying features. Ready move into without having to do another thing, the lock-up-and-leave package is sure to provide rewarding lifestyle and financial dividends

belleproperty.com/Daylesford

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DAYLESFORD 1B/21 Table Hill Road

LAND AND APPROVED PLANS READY TO BUILD

This 506 sqm approx. block of centrally located land offers the opportunity to engage quality builders Bryan and Petersen to build this premium architectural 4 bedroom 3 bathroom residence featuring open plan living/dining with log fire, modern kitchen and spacious el fresco outdoor entertaining, or alternatively plan to build your own design.

belleproperty.com/Daylesford

SAILORS FALLS 2324 Ballan-Daylesford Road

PERFECT FAMILY RESIDENCE

Set within the magic 10 minute circle of Daylesford and opposite the stunning Sault restaurant, this little surprise 4 bedroom 2 bathroom package sits on nearly 2 acres of land with a dam, great borrowed views to the north and a shed to be proud of. The home that keeps giving has a very generous semi outdoor entertaining area with dining and living spaces.

belleproperty.com/Daylesford

HOUSE & STUDIO ON OVER ½ ACRE IN DAYLESFORD.

Time to make your treechange dreams and projects a reality within the 2 bed 1 bathroom house and 1 bed 2 room studio with bathroom. Maximise future financial-lifestyle gains by exploring your desires to subdivide and/or build your dream home, STCA. Note, a planning permit was previously issued by Hepburn Shire to subdivide the block, however this permit has since expired.

belleproperty.com/Daylesford

FOR SALE VIEW By Appointment GUIDE $945,000

ROCKLYN 9 Pinchgut Road

ESCAPE TO THE COUNTRY IN A LOG CABIN WITH STUDIO

Welcome to 'Shady Acres' – a rare opportunity to own over 13 acres of pristine land complete with its own beautiful dam, water tanks, mains power, and septic system. A peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life surrounded by the dappled light and shade of trees and the tranquil sounds of birdsong, it's the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature from the comfort of your own home.

belleproperty.com/Daylesford

FOR SALE VIEW By Appointment GUIDE $670,000

2 a 1 b 6 v

Christine Lewis 0431 853 727

13 w

Christine Lewis 0431 853 727

DAYLESFORD 17 Hepburn Road

3 a 2 b 4 v 2051 r

TRENTHAM 22 Albert Street

SISSINGHURST AT TRENTHAM

It is so rare to present a property that has such an historical pedigree in our much-loved Trentham. Built in the 1920s, by Carl Schulz, who was the original owner of the Trentham Hotel (which is now known as The Plough), the past and present have been artfully united in this reimagined quintessential country property, now consisting of two separate, iconic dwellings, where heritage features.

belleproperty.com/trentham

a

v

r

Blackwood Agent of the Year.

House.Land.Home.

TRENTHAM 234 Blackwood Road

LIMITLESS LIFESTYLE

Set on a generous 6615m2 over two titles and nestled behind a picturesque hedge, sits the perfect country cottage. The opportunities this property presents are endless – country weekend retreat, short term accommodation investment or permanent tree change residence.

03 5424 1866

Fiona Kelly 0488 547 004

Ceri Spain 0437 730 220

belleproperty.com/trentham

3a 1b 4v 6615r

FOR SALE

VIEW By Appointment or as advertised GUIDE $990,000

BLACKWOOD 3 Richards Road

RESTFUL RIVER VIEWS

Nestled high above Blackwood's famed Lerderderg River sits this character filled family home. Occupying a generous 1341m2 on a no through road, this thoughtfully renovated home offers privacy and solitude along with some pleasant surprises!

03 5424 1866

Fiona Kelly 0488 547 004

Ceri Spain 0437 730 220

belleproperty.com/trentham

FOR SALE

VIEW By Appointment or as advertised GUIDE $920,000

TRENTHAM 15 Victoria Street

LAKESIDE LIVING

This beautifully renovated home mere steps away from Quarry St Reserve lake, is the perfect downsizer, first home or investment opportunity. Featuring three bedrooms and central bathroom, this gem is walk in ready to put your feet up and relax.

03 5424 1866

Fiona Kelly 0488 547 004

belleproperty.com/trentham

3a 1b 2v 813r

FOR SALE

VIEW By Appointment or as advertised GUIDE $849,000

TRENTHAM 6A Forest Street

HAVEN HOUSE: PURE COUNTRY ELEGANCE

4a 2b 4v 1061r

This recently relocated and restored, elegant and immaculately presented home, will surpass all your expectations. In every space and room, a true country-style haven has been created.

03 5424 1866

Ceri Spain 0437 730 220

Fiona Kelly 0488 547 004

belleproperty.com/trentham

FOR SALE

VIEW By Appointment or as advertised GUIDE $1,275,000

4a 2b 2v 1341r

BALLARAT CENTRAL 101A South Street

3 a 1 b 272 r

This cheerful single-level home is ready and waiting to make many more happy memories for those who are luck enough to call it home. Property is vacant and 'move right in' ready for a family member, tenant or oneself. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, a downsizer or an investor, don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to acquire a piece of character-rich history combined with modern comforts.

SUCCUMB TO THE PERIOD CHARM AND LOVE THE LIFESTYLE belleproperty.com/daylesford

Prized Daylesford Lakeside Location

Uninterrupted view of the Reserve

Brand new 3 bedroom modern home

THE POND HOUSE An icon dressed for success

TRENTHAM / 226 Blackwood Drive

This luxury property is a stunning residence and currently being operated as an extremely profitable Airbnb.

Open plan kitchen, dining and lounge, four bedrooms, three bathrooms and a huge separate studio and barn. Dining and living area with Phillippe Chiminea wood fire and three walls of floor to ceiling glass, gas ducted, electric wall panels and split systems. Alfresco dining area, fire pit, private jetty and landing deck for the lake, hot tub, huge studio/billiard room with wood heater, three bay barn plus wood shed and carport, two car garage/ games room.

Trentham is a very special township as its location between the Macedon Ranges and the Spa Country makes it the perfect base to explore the many attractions of these areas.

Compact lux living in Daylesford

DAYLESFORD / 30A Leggatt Street

A rare and unique property with uninterrupted views of the Lake Daylesford Reserve, a few minutes walk to the township and positioned on the secluded and quiet Leggatt Street with a private access road to only four properties.

Modern new build set on a natural bush block with direct access to the Lake Daylesford Reserve. Three spacious beds, one with ensuite, walk in robes, spacious open plan kitchen with integrated appliances, luxurious oversize stone island benches plus dining and living.

Wood Fireplace, external Iron ash timber and metal, oak flooring, wool twill carpet, ducted split system heating, ABI fittings and fixtures.

Perfect for a permanent home, weekender or Airbnb investment opportunity.

www.mtmr.com.au

Contact: Lisa Fowler 0418 557 222

285 Millers Road Invermay

LIFESTYLE, LUXURY & TRANQUILITY

We are proud to present this luxurious home to the market in the tranquil surroundings of Invermay. Prestigious addresses in Ballarat don’t get any better than this, and from the moment you arrive, you will be captivated by this stunning home.

Prominently situated on 5 acres approx., the uninterrupted views across the valley and further to the skyline of Ballarat are truly breathtaking. Stand on the extensive deck and watch the lights of Ballarat along the horizon.

5 a 3 b 5 c 2.02 h

For Sale

Contact Michael DeVincentis 0417 142 152 Andy Tunbridge 0422 605 677

you

of our agents, you get the whole team.

years of

DAYLESFORD 42 MILLAR STREET

CLEMENTINE – HIDDEN TREASURE IN PRIME CENTRAL LOCATION

With a premier location close to both Lake Daylesford and main shopping precinct, this superbly renovated Federation home features a bright and spacious extension that merges with the character-filled original home (front section is currently guest accommodation). Overall 6 BRs, 3 bathrooms, large kitchen plus kitchenette & versatile living spaces. Huge allotment of approx 1303 sq.m may suit further development (STCA).

6 3 4 FOR SALE

$1,795,000

2328

ID and contact details are required at all open for inspections

HEPBURN 1 FOURTEENTH STREET

DIVERSION - SECLUDED LUXURY ACCOMMODATION CLOSE TO HEPBURN SPRINGS & DAYLESFORD

This spectacular architecturally designed residence is part of the highly successful Kudos Villas collection, offering 1BR open-plan luxury living with absolute privacy and views over the adjoining Spring Creek gully. A large allotment (approx 1490 sq.m) at the end of a quiet street, the property is close to the stores and entertainment venues of Hepburn Springs.

When

engage one

ID and contact details are required at all open for inspections

SANDON

293 PROVIDENCE GULLY ROAD

RISE & SHINE FARMSUSTAINABLE LIFESTYLE RETREAT OR BUSINESS

OPPORTUNITY ON 20 ACRES

Nestled in bushland studded with 6 dams with 2 islands, home to yabbies, cod, turtles and frogs who share this environment with a mixture of mature eucalyptus, wattles, grasslands and native flora which is teaming with birds and wildlife.

Two dwellings and a studio are all off-grid, powered by a recently upgraded 11 KW solar system, ensuring you will never have another power bill. Satellite NBN and Foxtel are already installed.

5 a 2 b 19.17 e

PRIVATE SALE PRICE

$1,300,000

CONTACT

Katie Minchinton 0447207322

Michael DeVincentis 0417142152 OFFICE

43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

COOMOORA

15 KANGAROO DRIVE UNIQUE AND EXCITING STRAWBALE HOME ON 10 ACRES, 10 MINS FROM DAYLESFORD

• Spacious living opens to pictureque terrace with grapevine canopy

• 4 bedrooms - 2 very large, 2 bathrooms - one with corner bath

• Polished concrete floors, recycled materials and details

• 10 acres of native bushland adjoining Wombat Forest

• 8-person outdoor spa, children's play area

• Tennis court. Workshop

• Large deep dam stocked with trout and silver perch. Perfect for canoeing and swimming

• Mains power, rainwater tanks approx. 55,000 litres capacity.

4 a 2 b 3 c

FOR SALE

PRICE

$1,520,000-$1,550,000

CONTACT

Rae Corris 0408 358 772 OFFICE

43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

bigginscott.com.au

DAYLESFORD 31 DUKE STREET

ARTISTS’ RESIDENCE AND STUDIO IN CENTRAL DAYLESFORD

• Premier location just one block from Daylesford’s main street

• An elegant home with separate studiobeautifully renovated with creative flair to deliver stylish indoor-outdoor living while retaining many original character features

• Set amidst established gardens on an elevated corner allotment, with lovely views from a wide entertaining deck

3 a 2 b 2 c

FOR SALE PRICE

$1,150,000-$1,200,000

CONTACT

Rae Corris 0408 358 772 OFFICE

43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

DAYLESFORD 39 HEPBURN

ROAD

CHARISMATIC HOUSE, SELF CONTAINED COTTAGE PLUS HOME OFFICE/ART STUDIO ON APPROX HALF AN ACRE

• Main home is a beautifully renovated 1920’s era residence with high ceilings, polished timber floors throughout and period features

• Self-contained split-level cottage with 1 BR, large bathroom & spacious open plan living

• One-room studio ideal as bedroom, office, art/music studio or gym.

FOR SALE PRICE

$1,150,000

CONTACT

Rae Corris 0408 358 772 OFFICE

43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

MUSK VALE 2770 BALLAN DAYLESFORD ROAD

HOUSE & BUNGALOW FOR RENOVATION ON ONE ACRE WITH STATE FOREST ON 2 SIDES

Set on 1 acre on the fringe of Daylesford, this 3 BR timber home with separate large bungalow presents an opportunity for those prepared to take on a significant renovation or redevelopment project to create a country home with space and convenient access to Daylesford. There are plenty of sheds, small dam and established gardensincluding a magnificent oak tree – with direct access to hundreds of acres of State Forest.

3 a 1 b 3 c

FOR SALE PRICE

$695,000

CONTACT

Rae Corris 0408 358 772

OFFICE

43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

ID and contact details are required at all open for inspections

SHEPHERDS FLAT 510 HEPBURN NEWSTEAD ROAD

RURAL RETREAT IN SHEPHERDS FLAT

BETWEEN DAYLESFORD AND CASTLEMAINE

This is a rare opportunity to acquire a picturesque and versatile rural property. Set on approx. 38 acres [15.38 ha] of fenced pasture with mature gums, this two-bedroom cottage is in an idyllic setting. Sit on the veranda and enjoy scenic views or watch the wonderful sunsets.

2

$980,000 CONTACT

Michael DeVincentis 0417 142

3 a 2 b 2 c

HEPBURN

7 MCKINNON ROAD

ESCAPE THE HECTIC PACE OF CITY LIVING

Located on a corner block just a short walk to Hepburn Primary School and kindergarten, Golf Course, cafes, walking tracks and the Hepburn Bathhouse, this well presented 4 BR home is sure to meet the expectations of many buyers. With contemporary country décor throughout, the flexible floorplan offers relaxed low maintenance country living. It will appeal to owner occupiers and rental investors seeking a low maintenance property in this very quiet and well located area.

4 a 1 b 3 c 809 e FOR

MUSK VALE 2701 BALLAN DAYLESFORD ROAD

FAMILY HOME CLOSE TO TOWN

Situated on a large block of 3573 m² [slightly under an acre] is this two-storey family Home. Sitting in a mature, colourful garden and expansive lawned area at the rear, this peaceful family home is looking for new owners. Boasting 4 large bedrooms, an ensuite, a family bathroom and a separate powder room with a shower, this home is a perfect family retreat.

4 a 3 b 3 c

FOR SALE PRICE

$ 949,000

CONTACT

Lisa Samulski 0417 949 066 Michael DeVincentis 0417 142 152 OFFICE

43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

DAYLESFORD

2/34 SMITH STREET

LOW MAINTENANCE RESIDENCE IN QUIET

SECURE AREA

• Double storey 2 BR residence that presents a great opportunity to continue as a rental investment, with future potential as your own home or short stay accommodation

• Downstairs: open plan lounge-dining-kitchen

• Upstairs: 2 large BRs that both open to a wide balcony. One BR has a private shower and vanity, plus a central bathroom with spa bath and wide shower.

2 a 2 b 1 c

FOR SALE PRICE

$625,000

CONTACT

Rae Corris 0408 358 772

OFFICE

43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

DAYLESFORD 20 WEST STREET

COBBLERS REST – AN IMMACULATE HOME ON 1.7 ACRES IN DAYLESFORD

Adjoining and overlooking Cobblers Gully bushland park at the rear, this perfectly presented homestead-style residence with a huge amount of shedding and garaging is located on a rare large allotment in a tightly held part of Daylesford that has a lovely rural feel yet close enough to walk into town.

3 a 2 b 4 c

FOR SALE PRICE

$1,150,000

CONTACT

Rae Corris 0408 358 772 OFFICE

43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

ID and contact details are required at all open for inspections bigginscott.com.au

CRESWICK 32 AUGUSTA DRIVE

BOUTIQUE HOME - CUSTOM DESIGNED AND CRAFTSMAN BUILT

• Personally designed to provide absolute open plan living throughout with considered choice of deluxe equipment and fittings

• Welcoming & bright living-dining-kitchen with adjoining entertainment room that can be enclosed by stacked sliding doors

• Main bedroom suite with two walls of stacker doors that allow the indulgently large bathroom to open completely to the bedroom.

e

FOR SALE PRICE

$590,000

CONTACT

Rae Corris 0408 358 772 OFFICE

43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

HEPBURN 18 WESTERN AVENUE

ARTISAN RETREAT, YOUR DREAM COUNTRY COTTAGE IS WAITING

Nothing says welcome like a white picket fence and from the moment you arrive at this superbly presented property you will be absolutely enchanted.

Artisan Retreat is a charismatic country cottage set amidst a low maintenance garden in a sought after and quiet residential area within easy walking distance to Hepburn Springs village.

2 a 1 b 1 c 611 e FOR SALE PRICE

$795,000

CONTACT

Rae Corris 0408 358 772 OFFICE

43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

COOMOORA 15 SULLIVANS ROAD

3.89 ACRE LEVEL VACANT ALLOTMENT JUST

5 MINUTES TO DAYLESFORD

A rare opportunity to buy a large cleared and level block in Coomoora, just 3km from Daylesford. The property is well away from the main road traffic on a quiet side street and provides the opportunity to build your own country home, weekender or develop further (subject to council approval).

• Low Density Residential Zone

• Mains power available in the street.

3.89 i

FOR SALE

PRICE

$630,000

CONTACT

Rae Corris 0408 358 772

OFFICE

43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

SAILORS HILL LOT 1/80 HOATHS ROAD

2.5 ACRE HIDEAWAY CLOSE TO DAYLESFORD

• 1.007 hectares - 2.5 acres approx.

• Building envelope & effluent field have been allocated at the front of the property, and power is ready for connection.

• Adjoins Wombat State Forest at rear with walking tracks and riding trails

• Live amongst nature - kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, beautiful native birds

1.007 h FOR SALE PRICE

$720,000

CONTACT

Rae Corris 0408 358 772 OFFICE

43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

ID and contact details are required at all open for inspections bigginscott.com.au

2 a 1 b 1 c 300

We’re big in Property Management.

DAYLESFORD 2 GREEN GABLES ROAD

PRIVATE RETREAT WITH HEATED SWIMMING POOL & JACUZZI

This beautifully private property is set within mature lush garden surrounds and located close to Daylesford town centre. Combining modern styling with great versatility the residence is designed to provide two fully self-contained & connected villas. Currently guest accommodation - Gables Bend Spa Villa & Gables Bend on Highthe property has been thoughtfully designed to provide privacy and tranquillity for guests.

2 2 8 FOR SALE PRICE

$1,190,000 CONTACT Rae Corris 0408 358 772

ID and contact details are required at all open for inspections

DAYLESFORD 70 PATTERSON STREET

ITALIAN HILL RESIDENCE WITH 2 COTTAGES

Situated High on Italian Hill just minutes to central Daylesford, this unique property (which was once a guest house) features a large 3-bedroom, 3bathroom main residence and 2 single-bedroom cottages that could be offered on the holiday let market or as a permanent rental.

EGANSTOWN 12 OLD MAIN ROAD

CHARMING FAMILY HOME WITH ATTACHED STUDIO/WORKSHOP IN TRANQUIL

EGANSTOWN

Nestled in the peaceful Eganstown area, just a short 5-minute drive from Daylesford is this delightful and spacious 3-bedroom home complete with a charming studio/workshop, chook shed, and a fully fenced paddock on approx 1 acre of land.

3 a 1 b 3 c

FOR SALE PRICE

$895,000 CONTACT

Tom Shaw 0438 118 903 OFFICE

43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

DAYLESFORD 21A STANHOPE STREET

CHARMING CHARACTER: A STYLISH RESIDENCE ON WOMBAT HILL

Nestled in the heart of Daylesford, just a stone's throw away from the enchanting Wombat Botanical Gardens lies a stunning property that boasts a prime location and a Mediterraneaninspired garden haven. With only two years under its belt, this immaculately presented home has been thoughtfully designed with modern conveniences and eco-friendliness in mind,

2 a 1 b 490 e

FOR SALE PRICE

$810,000

CONTACT

HEPBURN SPRINGS 3 SIXTH STREET

A HIDDEN GEM IN HEPBURN SPRINGS

Looking for a charming hideaway in Hepburn Springs that offers a range of lifestyle and investment opportunities? Look no further than this delightful three-bedroom red cedar home, which is perfect as a first home, holiday getaway, or permanent rental property. With its excellent location and land-property proposition, this home will surely provide you with both capital growth and financial dividends.

3 a 1 b 1 c

FOR SALE PRICE

$750,000

CONTACT

Tom Shaw 0438 118 903 OFFICE

43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

ID and contact details are required at all open for inspections

WHEATSHEAF 195 GAYS ROAD

SECLUDED COUNTRY COTTAGE ON 5-ACRE PROPERTY IN WHEATSHEAF

This charming two-story cottage is nestled in the serene bushland of Wheatsheaf, just a short 10minute drive from Daylesford. Boasting approximately 5 acres of land, this property offers a peaceful and secluded retreat surrounded by mature Australian native trees and bordered by a tranquil seasonal creek.

Tom Shaw 0438

118 903 OFFICE

43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

3 a 1 b 3 c

FOR SALE PRICE

$895,000 CONTACT

Tom Shaw 0438 118 903 OFFICE

43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

bigginscott.com.au

CLUNES 55 ROSES LANE

ROSES LANE HOMESTEAD

Unique restoration and development opportunity on multiple titles and 8 acres. This characteristic Victorian masonry residence c.1870-90 is one of the few surviving 19th Century residences in the hinterland around Clunes. Distinguished by its encircling verandah and intact building form, chimneys & cellar it is set on 8 acres with orchards & Kilkenny Creek. Substantially intact & looking forward to a renovator breathing new life back into this home.

3 a 1 b 3 c 8 i

FOR SALE PRICE

$600,000 - $650,000

CONTACT

Katie Minchinton 0447 207

322

OFFICE

32 Albert Street, Creswick 5345 1073

CLUNES 7 PEARCES ROAD

GARDEN PARADISE WITH CHARMING

RENOVATED MINERS' COTTAGE

Part of the rich goldfields history of Clunes this converted miner's cottage has a modern twostory western red cedar addition and has been immaculately converted and maintained. The surrounding garden is a masterclass in beautiful outdoor rooms and living spaces. There is nothing to do here but walk in and enjoy.

c

FOR SALE PRICE

$645,000

CONTACT

Katie Minchinton 0447 207

322

OFFICE

32 Albert Street, Creswick 5345 1073

MALDON

49 HIGH

STREET

‘BEEHIVE STORES’ CIRCA 1858

The main building was constructed circa 1858 as part of the Warnock Bros. Beehive Store next door. The façade was altered and painted in 1907-8 for use by the Southern Cross Masonic Lodge which occupied this generous space until the mid-1980s. Subsequently leased as a retail space, this historic property is now ready for a new use.

1 a 1 b 1 c 700 e

FOR SALE

PRICE

$665,000 plus GST

CONTACT

Katie Minchinton 0447 207

322

OFFICE

32 Albert Street, Creswick 5345 1073

ID and contact details are required at all open for inspections

NEWLYN 2733 MIDLAND HIGHWAY

LIVE THE COUNTRY LIFE IN THE DAIRY FARM HOUSE

Built in the 1940s as a dairy farmhouse this home nestled amongst farming landscape and rolling hills has been tastefully restored and modernised with light filled living spaces making the most of the natural light and spectacular views.

3 a 1 b 1900 e

FOR SALE PRICE

$635,000 CONTACT

Katie Minchinton 0447 207

322 OFFICE

32 Albert Street, Creswick 5345 1073

bigginscott.com.au

3 a 2 b 4

LYONVILLE 36 MAIN STREET

BLACKSMITH’S COTTAGE – JUST MINUTES

FROM TRENTHAM AND DAYLESFORD

A picturesque original cottage sited on approx 1900 sq.m (just shy of half an acre) with stunning views to the nearby Wombat State Forest. Once the home of the village blacksmith the northfacing and light-filled cottage has been beautifully renovated and updated to provide short-stay accommodation with all the modern comforts while retaining charming heritage details.

3 a 1 b 1900 e

SOLD $776,000 CONTACT

Rae Corris 0408 358 772 OFFICE 43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

DAYLESFORD 101 RAGLAN STREET

RARE SUBDIVISION & DEVELOPMENT

OPPORTUNITY ON HALF AN ACRE

Ideally situated on an elevated corner of West and Raglan streets in central Daylesford this rare approx. half an acre allotment offers the astute investor with a unique opportunity to subdivide and develop (STCA).

UNDER OFFER

4 a 2 b 1973 e SOLD CONTACT

Tom Shaw 0438 118 903 OFFICE 43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

DAYLESFORD 43 HUGGETTS LANE

AN ORIGINAL DAYLESFORD MINERS

COTTAGE

Beautifully private and set on just under an acre of land (3716 sq.m) on the edge of Daylesford, this 2 bedroom original miner’s cottage will suit those seeking a substantial renovation project to create their own Daylesford dream.

2 a 1 b 3716 e

SOLD CONTACT

Curtis O'Neil 0423 904 050 OFFICE 43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

SANDON 90 GLENGOWER TRACK

PRIVATE BUSH SANCTUARY AND SUSTAINABLE OFF GRID HOME

This could be your lifestyle and tree change to greater sustainability, peace and quiet. Nestled in between the Sandon State Forest and farming land this beautiful and sustainably designed offgrid three bedroom mudbrick home is set within a wildlife oasis of 155 acres of native grassland, forest with three dams and a spring-fed creek, all protected by a conservation covenant.

ID and contact details are required at all open for inspections

3 a 2 b 2 c 155 e

FOR SALE

UNDER OFFER CONTACT

Katie Minchinton 0447 207 322 OFFICE

32 Albert Street, Creswick 5345 1073

Summer hygiene

Apologies if you have been so absorbed in the holiday mood or just so tired that, apart from the watering. you’ve hardly got around to doing much else in the garden but I’d like to point out a few seemingly unimportant tasks that would make an enormous difference to your plants.

For a start, don’t leave fallen fruit lying about the trees, it will breed pests and diseases by supplying a base for their complicated breeding cycle. Many of the fungal diseases such as brown rot etc., mature and disperse their spores from this fruit. The dried fruit beetle is one that breeds there, and so does fruit fly and a whole raft of other nasties.

Garden hygiene is the first step in controlling these pests by eliminating their breeding grounds. Collection of fallen fruit should be a continuous practice through the ripening season. Destroy the fruit or place it in a 60cm or more deep hole, covering each batch with at least 10cm of soil.

Summer pruning, or green pruning, is also an important maintenance program at about this time, especially in this high rainfall year. Surplus growth, mainly watershoots, should be removed just before they become a burden to the tree by overtaxing its reserves, causing overcrowding.

The main purpose of the removal is to save all nourishment, concentrate on that part of the tree where it is most needed and serves the best purpose at the time of fruit bearing. To let the useless watershoots and overgrowth develop and then have to cut it off at the winter time of pruning makes little or no sense.

All this nourishment can be diverted into and saved in the tree at this time, increasing the cropping ability of the tree. The removal can be done in stages or at one time. Besides getting rid of competing growth, limit most of the other young shoots by cutting them back to a strong, healthy growth bud at their end.

You should also keep an eye on young developing trees. They need every bit of foliage at this stage, so instead of cutting off any badly shaped or misdirected branches, tie them up into the proper position. Use either a wooden stake to hold them in place, or soft cord to tie them up. Don’t cut off all the trunk spurs - shorten them by only two or three leaves.

Feeding of fruit trees is very important. The formation of next year’s fruit or flower buds usually takes place at about this time. If the tree gets enough nutrients and water, just after the crop has ripened, a lot more of the ordinary developing leaf buds will turn into fruiting buds in the next few months.

Organic, animal manures or any general fertilisers, especially containing potash and phosphorous in particular, will play a big part in this transformation. So feed your trees and provide sufficient water in the hot weather so they can get the best use out of it. Contrary to some misguided belief deciduous trees don’t need a rest in the middle of the growing season. They get plenty of that in winter.

Trim roses

While you’re wielding your secateurs...at this time of year as soon as the spring burst of flowers has ended, it can be a good idea to give them a light trim to remove the remnants of the last flowers and tidy them up in readiness for good autumn flush of bloom. It doesn’t need to be excessive, just remove anything that’s untidy or looking as though it’s at an end.

When trimming back, make sure you cut just above a pair of leaves, and remove any which are obviously no longer functioning. You can leave the heavy pruning for winter.

Photo, above right

One of the joys of having a fully organic, chemical-free garden is the amazing number of wildlife, both avian and and microscopic. Insect pestilence is almost nil because many of the inhabitants are carnivorous and tend to keep the sap-suckers down.

The latest arrival last week was this pinup girl Ms Austracantha Minax, commonly called the Christmas or jewel spider. I know it's female because at 12mm across, the females trump their 5mm mates.

Absolutely harmless, these members of the orb webset sit at the centre of their massive tangled web and feast on all the flying insects that don’t pass by.

Got a gardening query? Email glenzgarden@gmail.com

House.Land.Home.Premium

Autumn 2023

Front: 22 Albert Street, Trentham

$2,090,000 Belle Property

Fiona Kelly 0488 547 004 Ceri Spain 0437 730 220

Image: Contributed

House.Land.Home. is a registered trademark of The Local Publishing Group Pty Ltd.

House.Land.Home.Premium is the real estate guide for the Central Highlands.

The next edition is out on Monday, March 27, 2023 in time for the Easter long weekend!

Sales: Linda Mooney sales@tlnews.com.au or 0493 673 149

See all our e-editions at www.tlnews.com.au

The Glorious Gardens Of Our Region

Hepburn Shire and the Macedon Ranges are home to many of Victoria’s most beautiful gardens. Established and mature gardens can add enormous value when it comes time to sell your home. This was highlighted in the recently reported $11 million sale of one of Australia’s most celebrated private gardens, the iconic Stonefields in Denver – home to garden designer Paul Bangay.

McQueen Real Estate is privileged to offer for sale some of our region’s iconic garden estates. 490 Dean Mollongghip Road, Mollongghip is a world-class garden designed by Daylesford garden designer Lou McLachlan. Set over 4 acres the substantial English and Australian garden comprises exquisite garden rooms designed to surprise and delight.

The rich soil and cooler climate of Bullarto is ideal for garden growth. 60 Mossops Road is a mid-century modern country house like no other. With soaring trees, a wealth of hydrangeas and woodland plantings, this outstanding retreat has been through a no-expense spared transformation. Cloudbreak at 34 South Bullarto Road is an idyllic setting of expansive lawns, shaded garden rooms and an ornamental lake.

Finally Brocklebank in Kyneton is a striking, renovated 1970’s home with a wonderful sense of elevated luxury and tranquility. Its incredible garden is a world unto its own. Should you be looking for a home surrounded by a beautiful garden, big or small, call me any time to discuss on 0417 116 657.

Kim McQueen

12 Brocklebank Drive, Kyneton

EOI - closing Thurs 23 March

Cutting-edge design brings contemporary indulgence to one of Kyneton’s most iconic homes, surrounded by botanical beauty and vistas of adjacent farmland and Kyneton Racecourse lake.

A recent collaboration with MRTN Architects and Covet Homes Builders has enabled the owners to showcase their creativity in adding a spectacular cantilevered wing to the original striking 70’s home, creating a wonderful sense of elevated luxury and tranquility. homes, surrounded by botanical beauty and vistas of adjacent farmland and Kyneton Racecourse lake. Cutting-edge design brings contemporary indulgence to one of Kyneton’s most iconic homes, surrounded by botanical beauty and vistas of adjacent farmland and Kyneton Racecourse lake.

A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own an exclusive property without peer, easily accessed from Melbourne and enticingly close to Central Victoria’s food and wine destinations.

490 Dean-Mollongghip Road, Mollongghip FOR SALE - Contact Agent

Surround yourself with the beauty of a world-class garden and the spaciousness of a fourbedroom and study home in idyllic Mollongghip, 20 minutes from Daylesford. The 1.67 hectare (4.12-acre approx.) land holding has been transformed by the horticulturist owner into a secret garden comprising of extensive pathways leading to exquisite garden rooms designed to surprise and delight you around every corner. The garden is a combination of English and Australian plantings that blend beautifully into the surrounding landscape.

The substantial home benefits from a flexible floorplan with ample space for permanent living, a self-contained wing for extended family or guests, and enchanting garden views. There are so many vantage points to admire the garden and country vistas, whether it be in the family room, the large kitchen and north facing meals area, second living zone, office/sunroom, or from the decking that surrounds this beautiful home.

34 South Bullarto Road, Bullarto

FOR SALE - $2.75m

Magnificent in its design and scale, Cloudbreak is an exceptional rural retreat offering an idyllic lifestyle with exquisite indulgence and quality in stunning Bullarto.

350 Hepburn-Newstead Rd, Shepherds Flat

FOR SALE - Contact Agent

A slice of Europe 10 minutes from Daylesford, Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm is set on 38.68 ha (approx.) of Rural Living zoned land across 13 titles with supurb views.

60 Mossops Road, Bullarto

FOR SALE - Contact Agent

The style and elegance of this mid-century modern country house characterises this delightful property, set in a spectacular garden with a stone lined swimming pool.

10 Lyonville Springs Road, Lyonville

FOR SALE - $1.55m - $1.68m

With country spaciousness this unique designed home is as practical as it is beautiful, offering idyllic views and an easy way to experience rural living.

101 Main Road, Hepburn Springs

FOR SALE - Contact Agent

Exuding country living at its most sophisticated, magnificent Olcorn House reigns proudly as one of Hepburn Springs’ finest grand country homes.

19 Camp Street, Daylesford

FOR SALE - $2.9m - $3.1m

Exquisite Edwardian architecture and some of Daylesford’s best views are at the heart of The Manse, a boutique residence on 0.24 Ha (approx.) of land.

104 Thomas Mole Lane, Glenlyon

FOR SALE

78 Raglan Street, Daylesford

FOR SALE -

Eco-conscious country style by award-winning Maxa Design is secluded and superbly sited with panoramic views on 8.25 ha (approx.) of river frontage land.

- $2m - $2.2m

A refined renovation brings new life and style to this classic Californian Bungalow on 1,434 sqm (approx.) of beautifully landscaped corner land.

Contact Agent

215 Treweeks Road, Blampied

FOR SALE - $1.5m - $1.65m

Transport yourself to a superb rural hideaway, with a substantial family home surrounded by forest and farmland views and featuring The End Of The Line holiday accommodation.

Lot 1 - 188 Mossops Road, Bullarto

FOR SALE - $1.3m

3 1 4

Create the ultimate country retreat in a hideaway location, where rich red soil, abundant water and forest views are spectacular. The potential is outstanding with 8.3 hectares (approx.) of undulating land at the end of a country lane.

254 Newtons Lane, Trentham

FOR SALE - Contact Agent

4 2 2

Substantial farmland and a beautifully transformed home are ready for your tree change or escape to the country in a prized location. West Hampton is a 20.09 ha (approx.) property in a class of its own with country gardens and a vineyard.

11 Kinter Road, Eganstown

FOR SALE - $1.4m - $1.45m

Custom-designed and precision-built home and guest accommodation elevate country living to a sparkling new level. Champagne House has become a contemporary hideaway on 1,360 sqm (approx.) with tranquil bushland views.

46 Jamieson Street, Daylesford

FOR SALE - $1.6m

5 2 2

Californian character and a new era of industrial chic are seamlessly paired in this premium home, with everything you need for a stylish tree change or holiday retreat. Set across 900 sqm (approx) of landscaped gardens and an easy walk to town.

18A King Street, Daylesford

FOR SALE - $1.35m - $1.45m

Custom-crafted design brings exclusive living and income potential to one of Daylesford’s finest waterfront addresses. The lake frontage offers mesmerising views from dawn to dusk, and two architect-designed residences on 424 sqm (approx)

4000 Midland Highway, Eganstown

FOR SALE - $1.165m

4 2 2

One of Eganstown’s original Victorian-era homes, whimsical Magnolia c.1870 has evolved into a beautiful rural retreat on 2.02 Ha (approx.) of land over eight titles. A perfect mix of country living and convenience only five minutes to Daylesford.

47 Frazer Street, Daylesford

FOR SALE - $1.05m

A timeless interior with a stylish edge is at the heart of this renovated home evoking storybook aesthetics. Promoting a lifestyle of peace and privacy, the charming split-level cottage is encompassed by beautiful established gardens.

1 Sartori Road, Franklinford

FOR SALE - $1.25m - $1.35m

3 2 3

A standout home and 20.23 hectares/50 acres (approx.) of land offer an idyllic rural lifestyle in the tightly held hamlet of Franklinford. Admire the panoramic views of undulating farmland and Mount Franklin from the light-filled interior.

Lot 3 - 188 Mossops Road, Bullarto

FOR SALE - $1.4m - $1.5m

Capturing spectacular panoramic views towards Mount Alexander, Mount Macedon Ranges, Daylesford’s Wombat Hill and Botanic Gardens, and beyond, this prime land of 20 HA (50 acres approx.) offers endless possibilities.

7 Wombat Street, Daylesford

FOR SALE - $1.6m

2 2 2

Contemporary Scandinavian styled Barn with the warmth of an English Cottage set in an edible garden. Wombat Barn sits proudly on the north side of the Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens with views to the countryside.

25 Queensberry Street, Daylesford $750k - $790k

175 Fairview Drive, Clunes $895k - $940k

10 Church Parade, Kingston $670k

7 Cameron Street, Clunes $1m - $1.1m

20A King Street, Daylesford $1.495m - $1.55m

38 East Street Daylesford $940k - $980k

18 Howe Street, Daylesford $1.6m - $1.76m

825 Green Gully Road, Glenlyon $950k - $1.045m

17 Fiddlers Lane, Bullarto $1.3m - $1.43m

52 Ingrow Lane, Daylesford $1.2m - $1.3m

43 Vincent Street N, Daylesford $850k - $890k

223A Main Road, Hepburn $400k - $440k

EAT | DRINK | ENJOY

Out & About in the Central Highlands

FebFast comedy show

Aidan Jones is 32, gave up drinking three and a half years ago and his happy to share his story.

It sounds the start of an AA meeting but Aidan is a stand-up comedian and he’s telling his truth at the Shedshaker Brewery in Castlemaine on Tuesday, February 28 as a curtain closure to FebFast.

The Morning After is the name of his show and it sounds like a lot of fun. Aidan said he thought giving up the grog would solve all his problems “but I am a bit of an idiot and I have all the same problems but now I have to deal with them sober, so if anything it’s worse”.

Aidan started his career 12 years ago and comedy is the only thing he has ever wanted to do. “I thought at 20 I would give it a shot and from that first time the rush was just like, ‘I want more of that’.”

His career is one reason he decided to stop drinking. “It wasn’t a big problem, but I knew there were too many times I would do things and be ashamed or annoyed and it was always linked to booze. Drinking is fine but too often it became something that was an annoyance so I had the idea of ‘what if I didn’t drink at all?’. Lots of people asked me why and it’s hard question to answer so I decided I would just write a show about it.

“And it makes me more accountable. Comedy is a hard game, very competitive and I want to be the best comedian I can be, I want to make a living out of this, and have a family…those goals are just not compatible with alcohol.

“But I don’t want to put my choice on anyone else. I hope that at the end of my show if people have something in their life they are not happy with, they realise they have the choice to change it. Alcohol is just my thing.”

Link: www.aidanjonescomedy.com

Words: Donna Kelly

Music news with Darren Lowe

Daylesford Hotel, Daylesford

Friday, March 3, 8pm – Pat Tierney w/ Chris Cavill

Saturday March 4, 6pm – Alice Bisschops Trio

Sunday March 5, 3pm – Blackbirds FC w/ The Golden Rail

Thursday March 9, 8pm – Tina Del Twist Lets Loose (ChillOut)

Friday March 10, 5pm – DJ Deb Walters (ChillOut)

Saturday March 11, 1130am – Dragged to Brunch (ChillOut)

Saturday March 11, 8pm – Mary! Disco (ChillOut)

Sunday March 12, 1pm – Sip and Sing with Sparx (ChillOut)

Sunday March 12, 5pm – Tomboy (ChillOut)

Monday March 13, 9am – Locals Recovery Breakfast (ChillOut)

Palais-Hepburn, Hepburn

Friday, March 3 – Birdpop and its debut album Guess What?!

Saturday, March 4, 7pm – The Dolly Parton Experience

Saturday, March 5, 2pm – Vince Jones Show (pictured left)

Thursday, March 9 - Edith Vale and Maureen McGillicuddy with Granny Bingo

Friday, March 10 - Honcho Disko with Crystal Methyd

Saturday, March 11 - Costume, cabaret, ChillOut Festival dance party

Among those at the party are the legendary Club Briefs & International DJ sensation Gaff E. Think Pose! There is a costume parade competition so dress to the theme and win some great prizes. Spread your wings and fly high as the award-winning, cult cabaret hooligans and mischief-makers Briefs present a wild romp of disco dancing, circus, variety, and burlesque featuring hand-picked guests from across the world of queer cabaret. Expect a pumping soundtrack with your favourite dance floor smashes and ridiculous performances from the Briefs boys.

Sunday, March 12 - Thick N Juicy Dance Party

Blake Family Grocers, Daylesford

Saturday, March 11, 12.30pm, 1.30pm & 2.30pm - Fabio as Tina Turner (pictured below) During a 35-year career as a professional dancer Fabio Cattafi has worked with Disney, The Australian Opera, Channels 7, 9 & 10 including IMT, The Logies, the Good Friday Appeal. His theatre credits include Happy Days and the Wizard of Oz. Fabio's obsession with the legendary Tina Turner has inspired him to create his own show playing homage to the great diva which he brings to the stage.

The 3rd

We have hundreds of Begonias and Fuchsias for sale in pots, hanging baskets and on display. The ideal UNIQUE GIFT. (Special Occasions, Birthdays, Mother’s Day)

A simple maintenance sheet with growing instructions supplied with each purchase and a YOU TUBE video named “Tuberous Begonia Maintenance Tips” available online. For more information, go to:

https://www.whitehousenursery.com.au/tuberous-begonias/ Ring Jesse Exiner 0419 002 651 or Peter Harris on 0400 313 703

Please note - there are no public toilets available on site due to increase of Covid cases in Victoria There are some clean public toilets in Anslow St near the corner High St, Woodend.

For great food, service: See you at the Guilly

IRECKON the road to Castlemaine has probably never seen so much traffic since Megan Evans and Tom Allen took over the Guildford Family Hotel at the end of 2021.

In a story back then, Megan, who is well known to Daylesford locals after working at a number of hospitality venues in the town, said she was excited about running her own pub and “getting the old girl back to life”.

And they have certainly done that.

Open five days a week, it is a huge drawcard for not only locals but also for those making the short trip past Mt Franklin from over Daylesford and surrounds way.

The chef is Lee Littlepage, who also has a following from around the region, and she is doing great things in the kitchen with pub classics and a few surprises.

We headed there last Saturday for lunch and grabbed a table in the bar. There are plenty of dining spots to choose from - check out the dining room, it's fab, the bar itself where Tom is always up for a chat, or the beer garden, where music is happening again.

Entrees

For entrees I chose the pea, mint and haloumi fritters with a mint yoghurt dipping sauce (4 for $16) while Kyle decided on the battered scallops with cauliflower puree, aioli, crispy bacon and lemon (4 for $22). Both were delicious with the fritters a really lovely texture, beautifully crisp on the outside and moist inside. Loved them. Kyle, who would happily eat seafood for three meals a day, said the combo of the cauliflower, bacon and scallop was a winner, with the scallops perfectly cooked.

Mains

Time for mains and it's always hard to choose - especially with 15 really good options - something for everyone.

I decided to be boring and went for the chilli and garlic prawn spaghetti with olive oil, butter, cherry tomatoes, spinach and parmesan ($28). Yum! I am never going to call this dish boring again. It is a zinger with loads of flavour, big plump prawns and pops of tomato. A bowl of deliciousness.

Kyle chose the southern fried chicken burger with cheese, slaw, bacon, pineapple, chipotle mayo, onion rings and chips ($28). This is massive and delivers everything it promises. Kyle said nothing about this, he was just busy eating, but I stole an onion ring and it was crisp and fluffy and full of flavour. Maybe they should do a bowl of onion rings as a side?

Oh, we had a friend with us, on the sly, and they went for the chicken parma with a housemade Napoli sauce and cheese blend with chips and buttered vegetables ($28). Did I mention Lee very kindly added a couple of extra sauces - pepper and mushroom. Served oozing with goodness, it was proclaimed "one of the best parmas ever". And this is someone who has had more parmas than Kyle.

Desserts

We were done but there are three desserts to choose from, all are $14 and they all sound good. Chocolate pudding with chocolate sauce and cream - chocolate coma-inducing perhaps, my favourite, vanilla panna cotta with mixed berries and housemade lemon tart with cream and strawberries.

Kids

It's a family hotel, so children are happily catered for with parma and chips for just $11, napoli pasta, or nuggets and chips for $12, or fish and chips for $13.

Drinks

This is a pub so there is plenty to choose from. I chose the 2021 Cloud St chardonnay from King Valley which was $12 for a glass, the same price as all the many glasses of wine available. Meanwhile bottles of wine range from $45 to $75very nice pricing I think.

Another thing

We have known Megan and Tom many years and they are lovely people who have taken the "old girl" and really breathed life back into her. It's been lovely to watch the pub get the love it deserves and also give people another option in this region. There is a Friday night raffle for various charities, which is always fun, and Tom has got music happening again - something the pub was known for in an earlier life. I really recommend making a booking or calling in to see what many people have already discovered. A lovely old pub with great food, service and atmosphere. See you at the Guilly!

Words: Donna Kelly | Images: Kyle Barnes

Raffles drawn at 7.30pm OPENING HOURS

TASTY LAMB LOIN CHOPS

2kg for $50

These chops are cut nice and thick. The same cut as a T-Bone, they contain the loin and fillet either side of the central bone with a layer of fat running down one side. For best results, cook fat side down to render it before grilling quickly to medium-rare. Perfect for BBQ and always very tender.

MORE GREAT SPECIALS ON INSTORE TODAY.

Hanging Rock Market

Hanging Rock is the backdrop for Craft Market's Hanging Rock Market. It’s not just the incredible surrounds that will tempt people to this market; stallholders and their vast range of products are also a beautiful enticement and well worth setting aside the time for.

The market brings together a variety of both local and regional Victorian stalls, all sharing their talents in this magical location beneath the trees and the rock itself. Find unique pieces for your home, body, table and family, all handmade or homegrown by the people selling them. By buying from our stallholders, you’re supporting small local businesses to grow and thrive.

There is fresh gourmet food and drinks, both to enjoy there and to take home for later. Come for the market, stay for the beauty of Hanging Rock. It’s the autumn outing your soul needs.

Hanging Rock Market is on Saturday, March 18, 9am-2pm. Please leave your pooch at home. Park entry fee of $10 applies.

Lea ther Lungs

Leather Lungs is the award winning, powerhouse of drag cabaret! The love singing, comedy queen, master of falsetto and stiletto! Hailed as “the next big thing” by international critics. Open all ChillOut, come have a Sunday roast with us in

VICTORIA'S BEST COUNTRY PUB.

one

The Daylesford Hotel is one of a kind. It’s majesty, it’s music and it offers many spaces, with over 100 year’s of history in the heart of town. A traditional style pub with all the modern delights, offering pub meals as well as a broader range for all dietary wants and needs. Wine & dine on the Sunset Balcony overlooking greater Daylesford or find a Cosy Corner and curl up next to the fire inside. Finally, after many years we are back. Open from midday everyday with lunch specials and entertainment in the evenings; including Open Mic on Mondays, Trivia on the Wednesdays & live music through to Sundays.

The Great Trentham Spudfest gearing up

Attention all spud lovers. The Great Trentham Spudfest is gearing up for Saturday, May 6 - and it's not just potatoes!

Vendor coordinator Susie Wyatt, pictured, said the day would not just be about "our awesome spuds" but include music stages, community groups, a growers market and loads of vendors.

And that is where Susie steps in.

"We pretty much already signed up all the vendors we had last year so I think that really shows how much they enjoyed it last time," she said.

"And we also want to expand our focus from the awesome spuds to a lot of other really cool produce and people from around the area - we want to make the event bigger than ever.

"Last year we had a smaller event, because of Covid, but this year we will fill the whole of Market Street and the Railway Station along with a growers market in the town square so those business owners benefit from the foot traffic that is generated.

"We are definitely looking for people who grow things and the more local, the better. We want to keep it as Trentham-y or Hepburn Shire-y as possible."

Susie said there were already quite a few new vendors but more were needed and she had been doing the rounds of local markets and putting feelers out on Facebook pages to find people. "Maybe those little makers who don't have a shopfront - this is a great opportunity for them to come and join in."

Susie said community groups were also welcome to come along to create a fundraising opportunity for themselves or just help out on the day.

"Everyone is looking forward to it and the committee is really excited that we are going to have a big event again - and we really hope as many people as possible come along and enjoy themselves. It's going to be a great day."

Details: Vendor coordinator Susie Wyatt at vendor@trenthamspudfest.org.au or 0420 554 217.

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Kyle’s Rant

IT ALL started innocently enough, writing that is, when this mild-mannered photographer started banging away on the keyboard to produce this rant back in September 2013.

I had been working for Fairfax as a photographer and had been asking if I could maybe start writing briefs (short stories) in the hope of furthering my journalism career. That was about the time we parted company, as this was viewed as demarcation and not permitted.

To date we have produced 274 editions of The Local, now that’s a lot of words, and to my surprise my last column was accused of being recycled. In case you missed it and were tidying your sock drawer, I was speculating on the lack of “whole of life” vision that the Hepburn Shire had when it came to roads and other projects.

Please let me assure the accuser that the column was not recycled. I may have dredged up some old facts in order to drive home my point and any thoughts you had of reporting me to the boss, you can shove where the sun don’t shine, I am the boss.

Now I have gotten that off my chest, I would like to push on and talk about Nicole Chvastek’s piece on page 14, and please note some of this has been mentioned previously, So, for those who can’t abide reading something they may have already seen, please skip the read.

It was many years ago at a barbeque that I first meet Nicole. Being of Kiwi origin I noticed a couple of words she used sounded like they came from across the Ditch. We did the usual flip-flop conversation to see if we could place together one of the six degrees of separation. It wasn’t long before we landed on her father Dover Samuels, the famous NZ politician who fought for Maori rights in the 80s.

My father was a fisherman, fighting for quota in the tumultuous fishing industry. He was the largest quota holder in Northland at the time and had worked hard for it. He had no time for Maori historic fishing rights and no time for Dover's ideas.

This time in New Zealand’s history to me was divisive and pitted fisherman against each other based on skin colour and upbringing. In short it was a fight to get as much future fishing tonnage (quota) out of the government as possible through historical data from the commercial fisherman. And the understanding of the original occupants of the land's birthright to have their own fishing quota.

Skipping ahead to the early 1990s, with Dad retired from the fishing scene, I was desperate for work and armed with a skipper's ticket and local knowledge I approached Dover for a job. He had a small fleet of fishing boats at the beach near the Marae and I lasted about one week.

Even though I was an independent adult my father refused to let me work for him and instead backed me into my own fishing boat.

So, that is my and Nicole's brief history of how our fathers knew one another and I am glad to say that even though our fathers don’t share the same views, she and I are good mates.

Rambly rant over…

Local Lines

Haiku

dogwood days two white butterflies chase the breeze weeping elm a red bridge straddles the stream stagnant creek after the storm a police siren wails

cockatoos nesting in the gums breezes ruffle

picnickers by the lake a food truck roars past an island in the lake she sits alone

- Helen McDonald

Helen McDonald lives in the Macedon Ranges and writes poetry, memoir and short stories. She regularly reads her poems at the monthly Chamber Poets in Woodend.

Local Lines features poetry by locals about local and any other matters. Please submit poems to Bill Wootton at cottlesbreedge@gmail.com

Pick me, pick me!

G’day. I’m Sasha. I’m a female (desexed) six-year-old blue Australian cattle dog.

The folk here at Mt Alexander Animal Welfare shelter say I am an absolute sweetheart. That's nice. I do really love being around people and I am well trained and always looking to please.

I would love a home where my new family can spend a lot of time with me but I am a bit picky with other dogs so need to be an only pet.

So if you are keen for a new best friend, just contact the shelter in Castlemaine on 5472 5277 and we can meet up. Microchip No. 900032002771967.

Link: www.maaw.org.au

(Pick me, pick me is run in memory of Rosie & Curly - we picked them.)

And now supported by Daylesford's

Just sayin’...

By Donna Kelly

IHAD a nice compliment this week. The Powercor PR guy said my column in the last edition was the best power outage story he had read. Even showed it to his boss.

We were chatting because there was another power outage last Wednesday, planned for 9.15am to 3pm. We knew about it coming up for about a month so were ready. Sort of. For some reason I thought it was from 9.30am so really shouldn't have put that shampoo in my hair while having a shower at 9.14am. Oh well. It's going to be super squeaky clean by the afternoon. (For us, no power = no pump = no water.)

Oh, I even had bottles of water in the bathroom. Mostly to wash our hands but also, you know, you can fill the cistern if you really need one more flush.

Anyway, the day went past, slowly. It was a bit annoying because this edition is our ChillOut edition and our biggest of the year. So we really wanted to get things done. But it was planned so what can you do?

Mind you as the clock hit 3.30pm I started to get a little antsy. I might have posted something on social media and one person wrote back to say the times were just an indication. Hmmm. If I was Powercor I would have put a later time and then if the power comes on sooner, win-win. Not the other way around.

I also emailed the PR bloke who called back straight away. He was very nice, made the nice comment about my column and said he would call back, which he did, just as the power came back on at 4pm. So all good. And if you are reading this it means The Local came out in a timely manner too.

We are looking forward to ChillOut. We don't go to many events but we are usually in the parade which is always a lot of fun but a bit strange. Sitting in the passenger seat waving to crowds always feels a bit like royalty. I find myself wondering if I have the wave right - too much, too little.

Last year the crowds went absolutely mad for us. They cheered and clapped and were really showing their support. It was so lovely until I realised it was all for Hepburn Shire Citizen of the Year Danny Moynihan, who was on the back of the ute. Danny is a long time ChillOut volunteer, as is his daughter Natalie and I am sure one day, grand-daughter Wynter. They are like real ChillOut royalty.

But we are back this year, with a twist, thanks to a lovely bloke called Tom. You will have to wait and see but feel free to give us a wave. We will be handing out The Local - and if you can find one unsigned by Jon Barrell it will be worth a fortune. That's an inside joke.

Another funny one with Jon, who has hung up his stethoscope after 36 years, is that he came out to TL HQ for a chat about his work and retirement plans. That's not the funny bit. We did the interview and then I went and found Kyle to take a photo. Kyle comes out, says g'day and then: "Well Jon, your photo appointment is 2.50pm (which it was) and I'll be with you in half an hour." We all laughed and laughed. It is a great read and with terrific photos of Jon away from GP work. This edition is the biggest we have done for three years I think. It's 80 pages, only because our printer can't do bigger than that. But it seems like so much is coming back after stupid Covid. And that is fantastic. We have actually reinstated our Out & About section and dine reviews are back, the gig guide is really happening (thanks Darren) and there are plenty of things to do and see.

We worked really hard over the past three years to keep the community connected and will continue to do that - and keep prices affordable so even small businesses can advertise big. I hope you enjoy this edition as much as we did. Just sayin'...

Ageing DisGracefully members, including Max Primmer, get together at the Daylesford Mill Markets cafe on Thursdays at 11am. All welcome. For information email ageingdis3461@gmail. com, call 0427 131 249 or head to the Ageing DisGracefully Facebook page.

Ageing DisGracefully is an initiative of Hepburn House.

Here is the crossword solution for Edition 273. How did you go?

All words in the crossword appear somewhere in the same edition of The Local.

Proposal to declare and levy a special charge for households who have participated in the Solar Savers program

In accordance with the provisions of the Local Government Act 1989 (Act) notice, it is hereby given that Hepburn Shire Council (Council) at its meeting on 21 February 2023 resolved to give notice of the intention to declare and levy a special charge under Section 163 of the Act.

The special charge is for the purpose of defraying the expenses incurred by council relating to the provision of solar energy systems of residential properties participating in the Solar Savers scheme (Scheme). These residential properties have signed an agreement based on the quoted cost of the provision of a solar energy system at their property. The Scheme arises out of Council’s function of advocating and promoting proposals which are in the best interests of the community, the environment, and the local economy.

A copy of the proposed declaration, known as ‘Proposed Special Charge Scheme for Solar Savers Program’ is available for inspection at Council Offices at 10 Duke St Daylesford during normal office hours until 5pm on 22 March 2023.

The special charge is to be declared in relation to the properties listed in Appendix A to the report titled Proposed Special Charge scheme for Solar Saver Program, considered by Council at its ordinary meeting on 18 April 2023. A copy of the appendix forms part of the documents available for inspection at Council offices.

The Scheme has been prepared on the basis that the participating property owners will receive 100% of the benefit. The total cost of the scheme is $85,854.30 GST-exclusive, and a special charge will be imposed on each property participating in the Scheme in respect of which a Householder Agreement has been executed applies for a period of 8 years from 31 October 2023. The special charge will be calculated by reference to the site of the solar energy system being installed and the particular costs of installation at each property. The special charge will be Ievied by notice forwarded to the property owner(s). Council will, by request, allow payment of the special charge by either full payment in a single lump sum or by quarterly instalments over 8 years, with the first payment due from 31 October 2023.

Any person may make a submission under Section 223 of the Act in relation to Council’s proposal to declare the special charge under Section 163 of the Act. Any person who has made a written submission may also request that they (or a person acting on their behalf) be heard in support of their written submission. Such persons should indicate in their submission if they wish to be heard by council. Council will consider and, if requested, hear support for all written submissions received before 5pm on 22 March 2023 at a Hearing of Submissions meeting in May 2023 to be convened if required.

Submissions should be addressed to:

Sustainability & Climate Resilience Coordinator

Hepburn Shire Council

PO Box 21 Daylesford Victoria 3460

In addition to the right to make a Submission, participating property owners have the right to object to the proposed declaration in accordance with Section I63B of the Act. Such persons may object in writing to Council by 5pm on 22 March 2023 by sending their objection to the above address. It is stressed that any submission should clearly state if the author wishes to be heard by Council, and whether the submission is a submission of support or comment only, or a formal Objection to the scheme as proposed.

It is proposed that Council will consider this matter at its Ordinary Meeting of 18 April 2023. Further information on this Scheme may be obtained by contacting the Sustainability & Climate Resilience Coordinator on 03 5321 6465.

CHILLOUT FESTIVAL 2023

SATURDAY 11 MARCH 2023

A section of Raglan Street in front of Blake Family Grocers will be closed to traffic from 9.30am to 4.30pm.

SUNDAY 12 MARCH 2023 - STREET PARADE

The street parade will take place on Sunday 12 March 2023. The parade will commence in Vincent Street Daylesford at 10.00am.

Road Closures

To facilitate the safe conduct of this event, the following road closures and detours will be in place:

• Vincent Street (between Central Springs Road and Midland Highway), 6am – 12.00pm, and Vincent Street extension (between Raglan Street and Stanbridge Street), 9.30am – 12.00pm

• Duke Street (between Albert Street and Stanbridge Street), 9.30am –12.00pm

• Central Springs Road (between Duke and Bridport Streets), 9.30am –12.00pm.

CARNIVALE

Carnivale will take place at Victoria Park on Sunday 12 March. Please note there will be no access for user groups and the general public unless they are attending the event. Access to the caravan park will be permitted. More information at https://chilloutfestival.com.au/

We hope to see you there.