The Local Issue 150 May 29, 2019

SECURITY CAM | 3 23:45 24/12/2014

April 13, 2015 Issue 43

Harvest Festival

December 22, 2014 Issue 35 You better watch out!

April 27, 2015 Issue 44

Great Trentham Spudfest

The Local - Hepburn Shire’s own community publication

August 3, 2015 Issue 51

The amazing life of Andy Greenwood The Local The Heart of the Highlands’ own community publication

August 31, 2015 Issue 53

The Kyneton Daffodil & Arts Festival

December 21, 2015 Issue 61 Daylesford NYE Parade judges Millie, Jude and Elshie

July 6, 2015 Issue 49 Meet the new owners of The Farmers Arms

The Local The Heart of the Highlands’ own community publication The Local The Heart of the Highlands’ own community publication

May 20, 2019 August 15, 2016 Issue 78 Open wide, come inside...

April 15, 2016 Issue 68

The Local Gone Fishing!

The Heart of the Highlands’ own community publication

April 10, 2017 Issue 95 The life of Lily Langham

August 29 2016 Issue 79

Victorian Rural Press Club Awards 2016

Issue 150

The Local The Heart of the Highlands’ own community publication

The Local The Heart of the Highlands’ own community publication

The Local The Heart of the Highlands’ own community publication

February 13, 2017 Issue 91 At the world’s end November 20, 2017 Issue 111 On the Silo Art Trail

August 14, 2017 Issue 104 Us Two - Vicky and Wakka

The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

December 5, 2016 Issue 86 Crowing about the nest

Local - The Heart of Highlands the Highlands The The Local - The Heart of the

The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

July 17, 2017 Issue 102 Us Two - Kieran & Sue

The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

June 5, 2017 Issue 99 Singin’ in the Rain Grab the winter edition of The Little Local

July 3, 2017 Issue 101 All aboard with Barrie

The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

February 27, 2017 Issue 92 ChillOut The Local Local -- The The Heart Heart of of the The the Highlands Highlands

2 About Us

www.tlnews.com.au August 4, 2014 Issue 25 Meet actor Tom McCathie in our Trentham feature

Front cover: The Local celebrates 150 editions with its front and back pages dedicated to some of our best covers. Enjoy the read.

SECURITY CAM | 3 23:45 24/12/2014

August 3, 2015 Issue 51

The amazing life of Andy Greenwood The Local The Heart of the Highlands’ own community publication

Image: Kyle Barnes

April 13, 2015 Issue 43

Harvest Festival

December 22, 2014 Issue 35 You better watch out!

The Local - Hepburn Shire’s own community publication

August 31, 2015 Issue 53

The Kyneton Daffodil & Arts Festival

December 21, 2015 Issue 61 Daylesford NYE Parade judges Millie, Jude and Elshie

April 27, 2015 Issue 44

Great Trentham Spudfest

July 6, 2015 Issue 49 Meet the new owners of The Farmers Arms

The Local The Heart of the Highlands’ own community publication The Local The Heart of the Highlands’ own community publication

May 20, 2019 August 29 2016 Issue 79

August 15, 2016 Issue 78 Open wide, come inside...

April 15, 2016 Issue 68

The Local Gone Fishing!

The Heart of the Highlands’ own community publication

April 10, 2017 Issue 95 The life of Lily Langham

Victorian Rural Press Club Awards 2016

Issue 150

The Local The Heart of the Highlands’ own community publication

The Local The Heart of the Highlands’ own community publication

, a job in journalism I think that having anges, is still a despite all of the ch - make a living fantastic way to be ty and having a observing your socie voice. chance to use your - Ellen Goodman

December 5, 2016 Issue 86 Crowing about the nest The Local The Heart of the Highlands’ own community publication

February 13, 2017 Issue 91 At the world’s end November 20, 2017 Issue 111 On the Silo Art Trail

August 14, 2017 Issue 104 Us Two - Vicky and Wakka

Local - The Heart of Highlands the Highlands The The Local - The Heart of the

The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

July 17, 2017 Issue 102 Us Two - Kieran & Sue

The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

June 5, 2017 Issue 99 Singin’ in the Rain Grab the winter edition of The Little Local

July 3, 2017 Issue 101 All aboard with Barrie February 27, 2017 Issue 92 ChillOut The Local Local -- The The Heart Heart of of the the Highlands Highlands The

The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

The Local - The Heart of the Highlands The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

The Local is a fortnightly community publication covering the Central Highlands. The next edition is out on Monday, June 3, 2019.

Or online on Sunday, June 2 at www.tlnews.com.au

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

Advertising deadlines for the next edition of The Local:

The Local is a member of the Victorian Country Press Association.

The content expressed within this publication does not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of The Local Publishing Group Pty Ltd.

Space bookings: Wednesday, May 29 Copy deadline: Thursday, May 30 Editorial deadline: Thursday, May 30

HE Local is a free publication distributed throughout the Central Highlands of Victoria. The first "monthly" edition was published in September 2013 and immediately became fortnightly thanks to the demand of our readers and advertisers.

Managing editor | Donna Kelly General manager | Kyle Barnes

T

The Local is brought to you by a team of local journalists, photographers, columnists, sub-editors, graphic designers, book-keepers and, of course, great delivery people. So when we talk about being local, we really do put our money where our mouth is.

The Local's motto is to "connect the community" by bringing people closer with great features on amazing local people and ensuring you know what is happening around your community whether that's a festival, a fete or maybe just a great special from one of our fantastic advertisers. Content is key.

We love writing about local people doing inspiring things and even local people doing ordinary things. And as some people, mostly politicians, have found out, if you are not local you will not appear in the pages of The Local.

You will find The Local, and all the back copies, online at www.tlnews.com.au and we deliver bulk drops throughout the region along with smaller "cafe" packs to every cafe, hotel, bar and restaurant we can find. We've even heard of The Local turning up in places like a cafe in St Kilda and a bar in Bali! All up we have a print and online readership of about 14,000.

The Local's advertising rates have always been kept affordable so even small advertisers can advertise big. Colour is free, the sizes are an eighth, quarter, banner, half and full page and we can help with making up branding and graphics. The world is confusing enough, so we like to keep things simple.

Finally, from the start, we have offered two free adverts in every edition for notfor-profit organisations along with a rescue pet looking for a new home. It's just our way of giving back. We really hope you enjoy this edition of The Local.

Cheers, Donna (Ed)

Sub-editor | Jeff Glorfeld Sales | Kyle Barnes on 0416 104 283 or kyle@tlnews.com.au Writers | Kevin Childs, Kate Taylor, Anthony Sawrey, Peter Young and Donna Kelly Photographers | Kyle Barnes and David White Graphic designer & HLH coordinator | Dianne Caithness Columnists | Glen Heyne (gardening), Indre Kisonas (design) and Sam Redlich (wellbeing) Accounts | Julie Hanson Delivery | Anthony Sawrey Call us for news and advertising on 5348 7883 or 0416 104 283 Email: news@tlnews.com.au, donna@tlnews.com.au, kyle@tlnews.com.au See all our e-editions at www.tlnews.com.au See a photo you like? Photos are just $22 each, or $55 for commercial use, and will be emailed at high resolution. You can print as many as you like...

The Pool Room!

The Local - winner of: *Daylesford Rotary's 2017 Employee of the Year *Rural Press Club of Victoria 2015 Best Feature Series *Daylesford Rotary’s 2015 Business of the Year *Kyneton Daffodil Festival Parade 2015 Best Commercial Entry

“The Local is the future of regional publishing!”

- former senator John Madigan in the Australian Parliament Just sayin’... :)

www.tlnews.com.au

Ella living the circus dream as a Fruitie

E

LLA Saabel is living every kid’s dream of running off to join the circus.

To be fair, Ella’s family has gone with her on her move up north to live the circus life. Also, Ella worked really hard to get there.

This year, after an exhausting three-day audition process – and after a painful 10-day wait – Ella was officially offered a place at the Flying Fruit Fly Circus, based in Albury-Wodonga.

“Ever since I was young I wanted to join a circus,” the 15-year-old says.

Ella first performed with Daylesford-based Sprung Circus, but it was her natural tenacity and determination to live out a big dream that saw her eventually land at "Fruities".

A few years ago, Ella did a six-month aerial performing project as part of her schooling - which meant she had to travel to the National Institute of Circus Arts in Melbourne.

“I didn't have a space to practice during this time, so we used our friend's crane truck to rig my tissue from, and borrowed an old crash mat.

“During this time I had to learn to be self-motivated and disciplined, as I was training on my own, and I realised I absolutely loved it.”

Sprung was the perfect platform for Ella, as mum Teresa explains.

“Ella always loved doing circus - she started at age three, but it took her a while to warm up to performing. Mara Macs, the wonderful circus coach at Sprung Circus in Daylesford, and now our dear friend, encouraged her and gave her the opportunity to perform in shows year after year, and she came to really love it.”

Now at Fruities, Ella has the opportunity to do more of the things she loves.

“I mainly do tissue - aerial silks - tumbling, and trapeze. I also do some partner acrobatics and creative/drama classes.”

And the hard work continues.

“I train just over 18 hours a week, which includes creative classes as well as skills and conditioning. Training can be challenging, and exhausting sometimes, but I love it.”

Going to school is also a part of the dream-living deal.

“I can't say I love school, but you have to go, otherwise you can't go to training.

It can be hard to fit homework in around training, but the teachers are (usually) understanding.”

It’s an amazing opportunity, one that also comes with the chance to travel the country.

“I can train more hours and experience lots of great trainers and visiting artists from all over the world. I will have the opportunity to be part of productions and hopefully play a part in touring shows. I haven’t been here very long yet, but I hope I get the chance to join a touring production.”

Ella will have two more years at Fruities before she has to move on, by the end of year 12, but by then the experience will have opened up a whole new world.

“Hopefully I will continue with a career in circus, and connect with heaps of awesome people.”

Words: Kate Taylor | Main image: Mavericks and Misfits Inset: Contributed

News 3

4 Our educators

www.tlnews.com.au

Fine art of taxidermy

I

NTERESTED in learning the age-old art of taxidermy? Book a place now in a unique workshop designed to get participants exploring the ancient and fine art of stuffing animals.

The workshop will be held on June 22 and 23 in Castlemaine and is presented by Museum Makers, a new venture from two former Museum of Victoria colleagues, Castlemaine’s Ewin Wood, pictured left, and Dean Smith from the Mornington Peninsula.

Brought together by a mutual respect for one another’s work and a shared love for the natural world, the pair joined forces last year to create a space where they could impart their knowledge and skills in this rare and dying art.

“Dean and I have been colleagues for more than 25 years, beginning at the Museum of Victoria, then the Melbourne Museum,” Ewin said.

“We’ve worked on some prized exhibits and collection treasures, including the original McCoy Hall dioramas, the great blue whale skeleton, and thousands of old and new taxidermy mounts.

“Taxidermy allows us an intimate study and appreciation of animals and their anatomy. If done well it preserves and displays the animals' unique form and beauty.”

At the conclusion of the two days, participants will have created their own beautiful bird mount that is theirs to take home.

Ewin and Dean are also planning future courses in moulding and casting, skeletal preparation techniques and advanced taxidermy of a fox.

They also provide custom-made workshops and presentations for students of museum studies, fine arts, and science educators.

Details: museummakers.com.au or Ewin on 0439 014 945.

Image: Contributed

Council Major Projects manager Richard Howell inside the cinema, inset, the cinema inside the Rex building Images: Kyle Barnes | Words: Donna Kelly

Community bank pulls the pin on cinema funds

F

“The decision at the March 2017 council meeting when the council voted to UNDING of $25,000 for the Daylesford Community Cinema from the construct a new cinema as part of the Rex redevelopment came after a two-month Daylesford District Community Bank has been withdrawn.

Bank board chairman Mark Rak said the bank had been approached in 2017 by former Hepburn Shire Council chief executive officer Aaron van Egmond looking for support for the cinema.

“We outlined that our support was based on the concept of a multi-purpose community auditorium, that could incorporate a cinema. DDCDL (Daylesford District Community Developments Limited – which operates the Daylesford branch of the Bendigo Bank) was clear that it would not provide funds for a single-purpose cinema development.”

The bank offered funding of $25,000 with $5000 to be paid each year to the council to help with the construction of the cinema. The first instalment was paid in 2017. Another $5000 was offered to the cinema to help with marketing.

However, Mr Rak said after a recent inspection of the cinema in the underconstruction Rex building in Vincent Street, Daylesford, it was clear to board members that the venue would become a single-purpose cinema that was not capable of supporting other auditorium functions.

Mr Rak said board members offered a number of suggestions, saying the project was still at an early stage and could easily and affordably be changed but there was “no willingness to look at any compromises” by the council.

The marketing money would still be made available, he said.

Cinema board chairwoman Gina Lyons said she was “surprised and very disappointed” to hear about the cancellation of the funding.

community campaign to save the cinema. The council report was very clear what was being built (and) talked about the community support for the cinema."

Ms Lyons said the cinema would pay an annual rent of $36,000 and to generate that the cinema would need to screen its regular weekly program plus additional sessions during school holidays. Outside of these times, the space would be available for purposes such as performances, meetings and fundraising screenings.

“Now we are being told that the bank intended to fund a multi-purpose community auditorium, that could incorporate a cinema, and the current design doesn’t fit with their concept.”

Ms Lyons said the cinema was an incorporated association with members, was run by volunteers, and was entirely dependent on ticket sales, memberships and the sale of confectionery.

Hepburn Shire Council CEO Evan King said the cinema plans had not changed since the original works started and it was not physically possible to adapt the cinema plans because of heritage and engineering considerations, including load-bearing walls and significant structural beams.

Mr King said the bank had also asked for the space to be freely available for private functions but said the cinema group needed first booking rights to ensure its ongoing viability. The space will still be available for private functions/events outside of cinema bookings.

The council has already returned the $5000 instalment paid in 2017.

EXPERIENCE THE WARMTH AND CHARM OF A MUCH LOVED AND HISTORIC PUB 65 Gingell St Castlemaine VIC 3450

P 5472 1250 LOCALS BAR • BEER GARDEN BISTRO AND BAR • FUNCTION ROOM •COSY AND WARM SURROUNDS

www.railwayhotelcastlemaine.com.au f railwayhotelcastlemaine OPEN FOR DINNER DAILY AND WEEKENDS FOR LUNCH

6 Our artists

www.tlnews.com.au

Having a go, recycling, and creating something new

S

TEFAN Nechwatal has been a professional artisan furniture maker/ sculptor for 40 years. That is a very long time and these days he is happy to take it easy. That’s with the exception of the occasional exploding LPG tank - one of the perils of working with discarded and recycled materials that are a core part of his studio practice.

“In August last year I found a 100-litre fuel tank and brought it back to my workshop,” recalls Stefan. “There was gas coming out and I started to push it outside, but it kept rolling back and got upset, like an angry wasp. It started jetting and I thought if I don’t watch out it’s going to combust from the Ned Kelly (his wood-fired studio heater) and suddenly I saw it go.

“I was standing here pushing the tank and then suddenly there was a river of flame about knee level that comes around the door and all this becomes a wall of flame right to the ceiling. I was thrown back quite a few feet by the explosion. Then Jan, my wife, came out because she heard the explosion and we were running around like idiots trying to put the fire out. Then she dragged me into hospital. I was there for about four days.”

Stefan has created a fascinating gallery/studio, Paradiso Arts, at Sailors Falls. He grew up in the Melbourne suburb of Kew, where his father had an import business bringing textiles and laces from Europe to supply churches, monasteries, schools and orphanages. Stefan would help unpack and deliver these materials to some of the most architecturally spectacular properties in Melbourne, including Raheen in Kew, the residence of the Catholic Archbishop of Melbourne, St Patricks Cathedral, Werribee Park Mansion and Rupertswood Mansion in Sunbury. All these experiences would contribute to the aesthetic bedrock of Stefan’s art.

“When I first started making garden furniture, I didn’t really have a direction, I just started making stuff relative to what I had been seeing growing up. It was slightly churchy-looking with windows, doors, niches and decorations and it was just second nature, it was what I had absorbed and enjoyed.”

Stefan has been working professionally since 1979 but in 1987 he purchased a rural homestead on three hectares right at Sailors Falls. Nine years later he opened Paradiso Arts to visitors - his bespoke gallery, workshop and sculpture courtyard.

“I was doing well with my art but wanted to move somewhere cleaner and greener than inner-city Kew and I chose Daylesford. I saw the place and thought ‘this is fantastic’. It was an absolute wreck of a joint, it was all falling down, and I loved it.”

Over his long career Stefan has fabricated unique country furniture in recycled timbers for indoors and outdoors. He has also worked extensively with recycled steel and mosaics. As well as his childhood influences, others inspiration has been found in southern European and northern African architecture, including sites in Spain, Morocco and other Mediterranean countries, encompassing Gothic, Roman and Moorish periods. These early passions remained as he moved into sculpture and garden art and many examples of his work can be found all over Australia.

Despite the demand, in the last few years Stefan has tended to do only one-off works for occasional exhibitions and displays. This includes a new work titled The Long Siesta currently showing at the Toorak Village Sculpture Exhibition until June 9. Another project was a World War I-inspired window installation at the Daylesford Visitor Information Centre.

He is also rekindling a youthful passion for making model automobiles. One of the best known to locals is his flamboyant bright blue letter box based on a Bugatti-type 35. Another is Little Yvette, a 1:3.5 scale rolling model of a 1917 AC Bulldog Mack truck currently on show at his studio.

“Everything you see now is basically a hobby, but I am busier than ever,” says Stefan. “It’s all about having a go, making do, recycling, grabbing something and creating something new. They are all an amalgamation of who I am and what I do.”

Words: Anthony Sawrey | Image: Kyle Barnes

www.tlnews.com.au

News 7

Traders lose revenue as demolition drags on

T

HE long-running issue of the demolition of a building at 99 Vincent Street has been referred to Hepburn Shire Council’s legal representative.

The move comes after traders at the southern end of Vincent Street in Daylesford say revenue in their businesses is down as much as 20 per cent because of the temporary footpath and fencing around the Daylesford Brewing Company building.

The footpath and fencing were put in place in December after a demolition order for the left side of the building was issued by Hepburn Shire Council.

Council’s Infrastructure and Development Services director Bruce Lucas said council had been endeavouring to resolve the issue with the property owner for considerable time, “to achieve a reasonable and timely outcome for all parties”.

“Works were observed to have commenced onsite late April by council officers and local traders, and council has been monitoring the site daily. Regrettably, limited progress has been made on the demolition works which has meant the footpath has had to remain closed. The matter has now been referred to council’s legal representative.”

Mr Lucas said the council was fully aware of the importance of resolving the issue to enable the footpath to be fully reopened as soon as possible but also needed to ensure public safety. “We have been working hard over several months to achieve this, unfortunately with limited success.”

David and Penny Reilly, who own Daylesford Tarot Readers & Beyond the Gate Gallery, said the council had originally given building owner David Gill until January 30 to demolish the building.

“When that date expired, they started negotiations and extended that deadline to April 30. It is now May 15,” Mr Reilly said.

“Council has a right to step in, demolish the building because of the safety issues, and recoup the costs from the building owner. Our concern is that our businesses are suffering.”

Owner of Found, Helen Box, said traders just wanted the footpath opened and the five affected car parks restored for use.

“The footpath has been closed since before Christmas and we have been trading through all of the public holidays and it’s May and it’s still shut. The only reason we get the odd people through is because of the signage we paid for ourselves to encourage people to walk through.

“Daylesford attracts well-heeled people and you drive in and that’s what you see.

It’s hideous. Would it still be there if it was between the roundabouts? All we want is to get it cleaned up and open. We don’t want to sue anyone, we don’t want to send emails to council, it’s simple, just get it open.”

Meanwhile, Daylesford Brewing Company owner David Gill said the short-term pain would reap long-term gain with the building, when completed, revitalising the streetscape and creating a dramatic increase in foot traffic for the traders for many, many years.

Mr Gill said he had bought the double-fronted building three years ago and had spent that time trying to solve the issues with the left-hand side because it had been allowed to fall into disrepair over the past 50 years.

He said a lot of internal propping work had already happened to ensure it was safe for workers inside.

Mr Gill said the loss of trade for neighbouring businesses was an issue but there was a much bigger, long-term picture. “My partner and I are putting our heart and soul, not to mention a huge investment, into this project that will provide enormous benefit to the community and region.

“Jess and I have very big dreams and ideas about building this project, which can become quite overwhelming at times.

“The feedback that we have had from so many locals, traders and tourists is that they want to see this up and running because they cannot wait to be able to come to our venue.

“We are also documenting the entire project and want people to follow it at @daylesfordbrewingco. We really want to share this project and journey as we hope what we achieve will have a lasting impact on Daylesford for years to come.”

Council is also organising a business resilience workshop in June that any of the affected businesses can attend. None of the traders contacted by The Local were aware of the workshop or interested in attending.

Above, from left, Helen Box, and David and Penny Reilly, at the blocked footpath Words: Donna Kelly | Image: Kyle Barnes

Roaring fires & red wine

LUNCH FRIDAY - SUNDAY 12-3PM DINNER 7 NIGHTS FROM 5PM DAYLESFORDHOTEL.COM.AU

8 News

www.tlnews.com.au

Local Lines

Textile workshop

A Love Poem If it’s to be about love, let’s talk of food and meals cooked for family and friends and our last meal, a banquet.

You delivered vegies and the lamb, dreaming of the goodbye dinner for Pete the Cherry-man.

Eight hours I cooked the meat, in the blue enamel pot, our nod to My Brother Jack’s, David, and his love tales of food and women.

You knew I would tend it intimately, And you’d arrive to a table laden.

N

Your farm-weary legs, wedged in at the head of the table, happily in a corner, waiting to be served.

Imagining you a silver whiskered Cuchulain, the champion amongst champions.

You got the first slice of meat and I got a pat upon the bum.

ICOLA Cerini, a prominent Australian textile designer whose work forms part of the National Gallery of Victoria collection and the Museum Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, is holding a workshop at Blampied.

After you’d gone, your daughters said you savoured that meal for days and described in detail the flavours.

Earth warrior, appreciative eater.

That last time, I hope you tasted the love.

Anne E Stewart Anne E Stewart is a Daylesford-based storyteller who has immersed herself in many local community events. Check out her latest venture, www.thecicada.com.au, a community story slam where locals come and share their stories. This poem is a nod to her old friend Rod May, sadly passed.

Poems for Local Lines come predominantly from a group of poets. However, other locals who would like a poem considered for publication can contact Bill Wootton cottlesbreedge@gmail.com

Holistic Funeral Directors

Nicola, pictured standing at one of her workshops, was awarded an Australia Council Residency in Barcelona, Spain, a residency at Banff Centre for the Arts, Canada, and was a finalist in the Cicely and Colin Rigg Contemporary Design Award at the NGV. She has lectured at RMIT and the Melbourne College of Textiles and exhibited in Korea, Italy and Japan.

Of Swiss Italian heritage - her surname Cerini is a street name in Blampied - Nicola has fostered a wonderful arts practice by celebrating iconic Australian fauna and flora such as the beautiful architectural form of the banksia.

Nicola's workshop, Applying Images to Plywood, using her original and much loved designs, will be hosted by Mara Ripani at Village Dreaming orto farm on Saturday, June 8 from 1pm to 4pm.

In the workshop Nicola will employ biophilic design principles on plywood with a special focus on Australian native flora and fauna.

Bookings: www.nicolacerini.com.au/shop

End-of-Life Doula Practical + emotional + social + spiritual ... support supporting and empowering individuals and their families who need non-medical support, to help them prepare for, and navigate through, the steps of end-of-life.

Enquiries very welcome Marg Bruechert on 0438 363 525

Sustainable & authentic funerals Call 5427 3112 visit NaturalGrace.com.au

Zen Reflections 2737 Midland Highway, Newlyn. www.zenreflections.com.au www.facebook.com/zenreflections/

Daylesford CFA

D

AYLESFORD Fire Station is open to the public every Thursday afternoon from 2pm to 3.30pm.

Secretary Paul Anderson said the CFA wanted the community to feel firies were approachable and "not just people who roar past with lights and sirens going".

"We are all locals, volunteers and part of the Daylesford community, so come and meet us. Maybe get help planning your family's 'Fire plan for your family, the property, house, livestock and pets'.

"The volunteers have great local/fire knowledge and can answer questions and we have a large stock of information leaflets onsite.

"Come and see how sophisticated emergency vehicles are and make sure they can get up the driveway if needed. Perhaps consider joining."

Paul said although fire restrictions had ended, phone in and register burn-offs on 1800 668 511.

Pictured above, Archie, 4 and big brother, Xavier, 7. Dad, Matt Pearce, is a CFA volunteer.

T

Donation

HE Glenlyon Sports Club has donated $5500 to the Hepburn Health Service.

Reconciliation

M

ACEDON Ranges Shire Council is joining in celebrations to mark National This will help provide patients, residents and Reconciliation Week by presenting a clients with important medical equipment ensuring the special cinematic event on Thursday, May 30. highest level of care is available to local Hepburn Shire residents and visitors alike.

The gift comprised $4000 to the Daylesford campus, $1000 for the Trentham facility and $500 to the service’s Healthy Leg Club.

The money was raised at the Glenlyon Sports Club’s New Year's Mixed Sports Day, a highly successful annual event which has become a well-loved institution.

Previous Glenlyon Sports Club donations have contributed to Daylesford Hospital’s acute ward, receiving nasal oxygen equipment, providing vulnerable patients with vital humidified and high-flow oxygen facilities. Their support also contributed towards upgrading shower trolley facilities for frail residents at Trentham Aged Care.

The award-winning documentary, Undermined: Tales from the Kimberley, which is screening at Kyneton's Sacred Heart College, offers viewers an insight into one of Australia’s largest areas of untouched wilderness, the Kimberley.

Echoing this year’s Reconciliation Week theme, Grounded in Truth, Walk Together with Courage, the film is told through the stories of the people that live there, examining the possible effects of proposed developments on more than 200 remote Indigenous communities in the region.

The film will be shown on Thursday, May 30 from 7pm. Entry is by gold coin donation. Bookings are not necessary.

Link: mrsc.vic.gov.au/events

10 Happy & Healthy

www.tlnews.com.au

In February 2019 our shop front closed but you can still buy our aromatherapy products online.

Locals can pick up orders Tuesdays from Daylesford and Fridays from Glenlyon and, of course, it will be freight free. Refills - sorry we won’t be providing this service.

Please remember we are an online store now so you won’t be able to call as there is no number, or swing by for favourite goodies. All orders need to be placed on the website with PayPal payment. If you can’t manage the payment or website get a friend or relative to do it for you. The reason for no phone number, refills and online orders only is it frees me up to do other things like more massage days at Aromatic Healing, hiking and most importantly spending time with family.

Looking forward to making your aromatherapy goodies. Fiona, Daylesford

Aromatherapy www.daylesfordaromatherapy.com.au Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DaylesfordAroma/ Instagram: daylesford_aromatherapy

Do you keep people happy and healthy? Advertise here and let everyone know.

Dr. Susanne M. Heringslake Chiropractor Moments To Ponder a little gift from me to you

A whisper, a stirring, a gentle feeling are often the little reminders we get every day to remember to love.

For all enquiries and to book appointments, please contact: Dr Susanne M Heringslake Chiropractor Mobile: 0407 301 352

Celebrating IDAHOBIT

C

OBAW Community Health, in partnership with Macedon Ranges Shire Council, raised the rainbow flag at the Town Hall in Kyneton last Friday, May 17, to acknowledge International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT).

An international celebration of sex and gender diversity, IDAHOBIT gives communities the opportunity to come together in a display of unity and support for those who are experiencing discrimination becauase of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

The date, May 17, was chosen to commemorate the World Health Organisation’s decision in 1990 to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder. IDAHOBIT is celebrated in more than 130 countries, including 37 where same-sex acts are illegal.

The event featured guest speaker Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas along with staff from both Cobaw and Macedon Ranges Shire Council - who were resplendent in their range of rainbow outfits. They were joined by students from Kyneton Secondary College’s Pride Crew and members of the community.

“For an organisation like ours that works closely with young LGBTIQ+ people, it is important that we champion inclusion and work towards a more equal society,” said Cobaw Community Services general manager Julie Cairns.

“It is estimated that 75 per cent of LGBTI Australian youth experience some form of discrimination. Prejudice and discrimination can have a significant detrimental effect on the health and wellbeing of people resulting in illnesses such as depression and anxiety.”

The rainbow flag was also flown at the council offices in Gisborne and at the clock tower in Woodend.

WOMEN’S NIGHT OUT

A Fun and Informative evening out for Women, by Women

holistic fitness

A WHOLE FAMILY GYM

Xistance provides fitness services that promote health and wellbeing for individuals, families and the community.

You’re invited

Thursday 13 June 6.30pm - 8.30pm Trentham Golf Club - 54 Trentham Falls Rd, Trentham Local Music Entertainment

Women’s Health Presentations

Games Quizzes Door Prizes

PARENTS AND BABIES TEEN GYM GROUP FITNESS and LesMills MULTIFUNCTIONAL GYM STRONG OLDER ADULTS Come and join our unique, friendly and all inclusive gym community.

10 Mink Street, Daylesford, VIC

Samantha Redlich

www.xistance.com.au

0433 848 292

XistanceHolisticFitness

samantha@xistance.com.au

Nibbles Herbal Tea Drinks

BOOK EARLY!

Limited tickets available

Tickets available online at

www.eventbrite.com.au/e/601053323641 For information about our Women’s Wellness Clinic visit

https://springsmedical.com.au/women’s-wellness-clinic.php

Funded by the Department of Health and Human Services

Mo keeping up his social life at Hepburn House

M

O SHEPPARD is keeping up his impressive social life at Hepburn House.

“I enjoy being able to come and go as I please, the food and talking to the staff and residents,” Mo says.

Hepburn House is a government-funded aged care facility that offers a range of care for residents, from respite to permanent, with a dedicated team of trained health care staff including personal care workers as well as registered nurses.

Moving into Hepburn House was the perfect choice for Mo, a wellknown local, who has always led a busy life – and is still doing all of his favourite things.

“I’ve been heavily involved in the Hepburn Football Club and I’ve spent a lot of time in all the local pubs with pool and dart competitions, drinking and socialising, working and living. And I continue to do all the things within the community that I enjoy.”

Residents can choose to participate in a range of activities at Hepburn House, from exercise classes to craft groups and Morning Melodies.

Regular outings are also held, for residents to head into town for coffee and shopping.

Residents also have access to a team of allied health care professionals who regularly visit Hepburn House.

Residents often say that one of the things they like best about life at Hepburn House is the food - home-style meals that are prepared on-site and are tailored to suit any dietary or religious requirements that residents may have.

Hepburn House is located at 1 Hepburn Road, Daylesford.

For more information, call 5348 8100 or visit www.hepburnhouse.com.au Advertorial

12 Our educators

www.tlnews.com.au

Dharma School flourishing at new location

J

EN Willis is the principal of the Daylesford Dharma School, which started the year at its new premises on the Daylesford-Trentham Road. Jen spoke with journalism student Lily Watt for an exclusive for The Local.

Lily: Tell us a little about yourself.

Jen: As a principal, I have a pretty unique background. I love to travel and have worked in leadership roles in schools in Australia, Vietnam, South Korea and the US. I’ve also spent hundreds of days and nights in the outdoors with young people, hiking through forests, paddling rivers, climbing cliffs, sleeping under the stars. I raised my children when they were young in an outdoor education centre in the bush where we had to catch a flying fox across a river to get in and out of our property, lived without any form of power, and produced all our own food. I value community deeply, and believe that a life lived authentically, in a caring, supportive and loving community, is at the heart of a happy life, and that this should transcend into all aspects of a child’s schooling as well.

Lily: What’s the mission of the Dharma School?

Jen: We are inspired by the wisdom and the teachings of Buddhism. We are guided in our words, thoughts and actions by five precepts - deep listening and loving speech, reverence for life, generosity, mindful consumption and body responsibility. We pay particular attention to developing our children’s capacity to grow as kind and wise individuals, who are empowered by a view of universal responsibility in how they shape their world and live harmonious and generous lives.

Lily: What resources are available for students at the school?

Jen: We have a wonderful new location, with almost nine hectares of rural land, classrooms that open onto decks that overlook the countryside, and special gathering places for children to play, and also to meditate. Our greatest resource, though, is without doubt our incredible community. We have passionate and dedicated teachers, incredibly supportive parents, children who care deeply for one another and for the natural world, and many generous volunteers who come to our school just to share in our vision of cultivating wisdom and compassion.

Lily: How do you cater for each student’s individual needs and wants?

Jen: We are fortunate to have an outstanding staff-to-student ratio, allowing us to maintain small class sizes and to work closely with all children and have the time to know their interests, their strengths and their hopes intimately. We develop learning plans for children that are based not only on academic learning, but also on understanding what truly motivates and engages each child in a heartfelt and holistic sense.

Lily: Where do you see the Dharma School in five years?

Jen: As a flourishing school community. We have plans to grow in the primary years and also to add on secondary schooling as well. We have a lot of interest in the school, however; finding local housing has proven challenging for some families who have looked into relocating in order for their children to attend the school, so we will also explore a boarding option as well. We also have plans to open a centre for the cultivation of compassion and wisdom to serve the wider community, where we will offer programs such as mindfulness retreats and educator training inspired by the wisdom and teachings of Buddhism.

Lily: Finally, what’s your personal favourite quote to live by?

Jen: I have a long-time favourite that I have shared far and wide. It’s by the American cultural anthropologist Margaret Mead, whose quote: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world, indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has”, has guided my educational and personal choices and decisions for many years and that sits at the heart of my desire to live a life deeply committed to building strong and flourishing communities.

Image: Kyle Barnes

Buying or selling property?

ium em ’s Pr ueen ay Q thd Bir 019 2

HOUSE.LAND.HOME. Your local real estate guide to the Central Highlands

Unlock your property’s potential by advertising in the next edition of HLH Premium. Our region’s premium gloss real estate magazine is set to hit shelves in time for the Queen’s Birthday weekend visitor rush.

Talk to your agent or call the team at The Local on 5348 7883.

House.Land.Home.

Design with Indre Kisonas

Time to rug up

T

HE climates across our beautiful country vary enormously. Weather, seasons, light and temperatures change, not only across states but within them.

When you move homes into another state your style of furniture and colours may not suit. My client moved from Victoria to Queensland and I was there to help.

The variance in climate is substantial so therefore the lifestyle is different. More meals and activities are spent outside. Doors are flung open wider and for longer. Sun and shade from leafier foliage alters the light streaming into the home. Life seems to slow down a bit and take on a more relaxed feel. This changes the style of furniture.

It tends to have a Balinese theme at the moment. There is cane and rattan used as standard and far more white is used indoors and out. Even my black clothing was at odds with the light, bright garb of Queensland.

Nevertheless, my client could not afford to change her existing furniture. How do we make it fit in? Minimising the amount of furniture was paramount. Dark timber furniture is bulky and heavy looking. Key pieces are kept but separated out.

Coffee tables, side tables and outdoor furniture are sanded back if possible and milk washed or stained a lighter shade. Timber doors and skirtings are repainted a darker shade than the off-white walls. Dulux Hog Bristle or Silver Tea Set will do the trick.

This house could not take an all white scheme to lighten and brighten because the heavy timber furniture would look incongruous and neither kitchen nor floors were a clean colour. We had to blend it all in. This blending is where the humble rug is perfect. You can choose colours and patterns that marry the lightness of the climate with the heaviness of the furniture. In this case, blues and greens were chosen in a bold pattern in the heavier lounge room to make a statement. Cushions will be bold here, to complement the rug, but the colours will reflect the leafy green of outside.

The sofa is a brown leather so no more brown or beige to be added anywhere.

In the casual dining/lounge area a lighter green rug with some charcoal and warm white will blend this area. Again, cushions and a cotton (not wool) throw will be block colours of blue, warm white and green to tie it with the rest of the house.

Not only will the rugs delineate areas together in this open-plan space, but they will harmonise the colours through the house, reflect the outside greenery and absorb some noise in this open space. Now that the weather is turning for winter, we can appreciate a rug on the floor to also keep our toes off the cold tiles.

No matter which state or climate you live in, a rug will achieve so much in your individual space. It is a simple and comparatively cheap solution to tying a space together. Use appropriate materials like wool or felt in Victoria; cotton or jute in Townsville. Harmonise the colours with your existing furniture and choose an appropriate size for the room.

Indre Kisonas - principal designer at iok design www.iokdesign.com.au | indre@iokdesign.com.au

Rain, glorious rain

The beautiful, steady, soaking showers of the weekend before last brought more than smiles to our faces - they brought sustenance for our gardens. More importantly, they brought some relief for our farming community, and hope for more to come.

I could almost hear a collective sigh of pleasure from my long-suffering trees and shrubs, forced to survive on months of closely rationed trickle-fed water.

The downside is the accompanying freezing weather, which puts an end to vigorous growth and also means a lack of enthusiasm - at least on my part - to get out there among it all to finish readying the garden for the long, dark months of winter.

On the bright side, we have more time to turn our attention to our potted plants, indoors and out.

Most of the plants we grow indoors originate from tropical or subtropical regions, where winter temperatures are moderate and humidity relatively low.

I once did a TV segment from that wonderful tropical rainforest environment of the Melbourne Zoo's fabulous butterfly house, amid the induced humidity, running water and gorgeous tropical plants - and the dazzling butterflies themselves.

The program presented the environment in which those plants that were struggling for survival on our windowsills and porches were in fact thriving.

Admittedly they were rotated every fortnight or so into a separate greenhouse, to recover from the dietary habits of hordes of caterpillars.

Unfortunately, this doesn't apply to Central Victoria, where temperatures are low and the atmosphere either frosty, damp or wet. It's under these conditions that indoor plants suffer - either from a lack of natural light or over-watering.

For most of the year the moisture content of soil in pots will drop within a few hours of watering, even in poorly drained soil, so the plants don't suffer from “wet feet�.

In colder months, however, water stays in the soil much longer, leaving plants open to root rot and other diseases brought about by microorganisms.

Your plant will soon tell you, by a gradual yellowing, and if not soon remedied, by a drooping and dropping of older leaves.

The simple solution to correct watering is to forego the frequent light splash - where it is difficult to assess the plant's needs because even if the top soil is kept damp, the lower soil, where the roots are, could be always dry or soggy wet. Either way is equally dangerous for the plant, especially in the cold months.

Other causes of leaf drop at this time of year are a sudden reduction in room temperature, or fumes from gas fires.

Wherever possible, move your plants to a lighter position, and away from draughts.

A good way to give a boost to indoor plants that appear to be suffering is to give them a spell in your bathroom. Here, steam from showers raises the temperature and humidity to somewhere nearer their natural environment. A short spell under very light pressure from your shower will also clean dust from the foliage.

Most of these plants come from rainforests, not necessarily tropical, so extreme heat or sunlight aren't always the best thing for them. Keep them out of hot, direct sunlight. I'm fortunate to have a large south-facing window in my dining room, where plants of mine that struggled even in sunny South Australia are thriving: plants such as the moth orchid, ferns, and, to my delight, my first really successful indoor African violet. But, fingers crossed, it has yet to negotiate its first Daylesford winter.

Got a gardening query? Email glenzgarden@gmail.com

DAYLESFORD & CRESWICK

DAYLESFORD 23 STANHOPE STREET CENTRAL EDWARDIAN SET ON 1000M2 Centrally located, in walking distance to the Wombat Botanical Gardens and Daylesford main street this tastefully presented Edwardian home is packed full of period features with high ceilings and polished timber flooring. The generous floorplan offers three good sized bedrooms, bathroom with freestanding bath, beautiful light filled lounge with open wood fire. The central hallway open to an open plan kitchen/ dining space with sunken living which overlooks the private and fully fenced backyard. The lounge also features a pulldown ladder with carpeted storage area in the roof.

CLUNES 38 CANTERBURY STREET STUNNING CONTEMPORARY HOMESTEAD ON OVER 1/2 AN ACRE Situated in a prime position, on over half an acre of beautiful gardens and walking distance to the centre of Historical Clunes is this immaculate and spacious 4 bedroom brick homestead.

The full country kitchen offers plenty of cupboard space, dishwasher, quality electric appliances, ceramic cook-top and complete with butler’s pantry. From there the open plan dining room opens via sliding doors to the expansive covered entertaining area, ideal for family get togethers.

a3 b1 c2

HEPBURN SPRINGS 1A BORSA CRESCENT

a4 b2 c4

HEPBURN SPRINGS 21 SECOND STREET

FOR SALE PRICE $725,000 CONTACT Tom Shaw 0438 118 903 Michael DeVincentis 0417 142 152 OFFICE 43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

FOR SALE PRICE $495,000 CONTACT Nik Bradley 0448 407 387 OFFICE 32 Albert Street, Creswick 5345 1073

ID and contact details are required at all open for inspections

CONTEMPORARY DELUXE LIVING IN QUIET LOCATION This 5 year old spacious home features luxury living and treetop views over nearby Wombat Forest and is located within walking distance of Hepburn Springs cafes and the creek swimming pool. The contemporary home has been designed to capture natural light and highlight the views, incorporating a stylish modern décor and providing modern low maintenance living in the heart of Victoria’s Spa Region.

Sited in a quiet and private area, this property would suit as a permanent home, ideal rental or guest accommodation.

MODERN AND LUXURIOUS HOLIDAY VILLA Situated alongside the picturesque Doctor's Gully within a peaceful bush setting this purpose-built holiday accommodation property is modern and luxurious.

Featuring two generous sized bedrooms both with recently updated ensuites and master with spa bath. The open plan living and central lounge/dining offers high ceilings with a wood heater and galley style kitchen with cooking facilities.

The sliding doors open to the west facing entertainers decking and offers views of the bushland surrounds.

a3 b2 c2

FOR SALE PRICE $685,000 CONTACT Rae Corris 0408 358 772 OFFICE 43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

a2 b2 c2

FOR SALE PRICE $525,000 CONTACT Tom Shaw 0438 118 903 OFFICE 43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328

bigginscott.com.au

House.Land.Home.

REIV round-up

T

HE four most expensive unit markets in regional Victoria are all located in the Geelong/ Bellarine Peninsula/Surf Coast area, with the fifth at Gisborne, according to the latest data from the Real Estate Institute of Victoria.

The REIV’s data for the first quarter of 2019, which is based on actual sales results, saw Geelong take out the mantle of the most expensive unit market for the first time. Geelong’s median unit price is now sitting at $682,000, which is a whopping 49.9 per cent annual increase and 6.6 per cent quarterly increase.

Considering that Toorak’s unit median is sitting at $685,000 at March 31, 2019, this is quite a remarkable result for Geelong and is yet another indicator that the property market in the region is going gangbusters.

Ocean Grove is sitting in second place for regional Victoria’s most exclusive unit market with a median of $666,250, following a 4.8 per cent reduction in the first quarter. Then it was Barwon Heads, which also reported a reduction in the median unit price (of 1.5 per cent) and now has a unit median of $660,000.

Torquay’s median unit price increased 8.5 per cent during the 12 months to March 31 2019, but fell 3.2 per cent in the first quarter of 2019 to $610,000.

Gisborne rounded out the top five for highest unit median at more than $100,000 less than the fourth-place holder. Gisborne’s median is sitting at $502,000, having soared 9.8 per cent in the past year.

At the other end of the scale, most of regional Victoria’s bargain unit markets can be found in Gippsland. The most affordable unit median was in Moe at $145,000 – unchanged on both the quarterly and annual comparison.

Morwell’s unit median increased 9.0 per cent in the first quarter of 2019 to $163,500 followed by Ararat at $171,500, having decreased 9.7 per cent during the quarter. Fourth on the cheapest unit list was Newborough at $175,000, Benalla at $205,000, Bairnsdale at $210,000, Traralgon at $214,000, and Sale not far behind at $215,000.

Link: www.reiv.com.au/market-insights

Bells Water Gardens @ Newlyn

Bells Water Gardens has been in the water garden business for over 25 years, building and maintaining ponds and growing a diverse range of aquatic plants for the nursery trade and public.

We are passionate about building natural eco-system ponds, adding beauty and encouraging wildlife, allowing interaction with nature. Water gardens built by us are quiet, contemplative places to rest and energise the senses.

Contact us for all your water garden requirements or come and see our nursery at 1 Campion Rd, Newlyn.

0418 567 195

FLYSCREENS MEASURED,

MADE, AND FITTED ON THE SPOT! FROM $ 00

03 5464 7380

• Roller Shutters • Security Doors • Fly Screens

39

SECURITY DOORS MADE TO MEASURE AT FACTORY DIRECT PRICES *Conditions apply.

Hepburn Shire & Ballarat

Phone: 03 5464 7380 or Michael 0422 643 901 Email: sales@onsiteflyscreensballarat.com.au www.onsiteflyscreens.com.au

18 Sport

www.tlnews.com.au

Lightning Premiership for Hepburn's Under 12s

H

EPBURN Football Club’s Under 12s team ventured to Waubra to contest the Central Highlands Football League U12s Lightning Premiership, hoping for a great day of football.

With more than 30 players on the team and only 14 permitted on the ground at once, their coach had his work cut out to let everyone play.

The Hepburn Kookaburras' first game saw the team come up against Bungaree and it became apparent the young Burras had come to play with a convincing 73 to 2 win seeing them through to the next round. In their next game, they met Rokewood and again after a physical game the Burras had a convincing 66 to 2 win which pitted them against Skipton in the semi-final.

Having played Skipton the previous day, the team was quietly confident of a win, which would mean they would get through to the grand final. In a tough contest the young Burras were able to record a convincing 32 to 3 win.

After a long day of football, the young Burras had one final game to get through. The grand final match was against Buninyong, who have often proved to be a tough side to overcome. Hepburn’s captain Dom Penny decided to kick against a strong breeze so they would be coming home with the wind in the final quarter, and this proved a master stroke.

With Oscar McLucas dominating the ruck and Dom continually driving the ball forward to small forwards Oscar Stone and Hugo Le Ferve, who were proving to be a handful for the Buninyong defence, the Burras continually attacked the goals. At half time the Burras held a 12-point lead.

The second half of the game saw Hepburn’s backline, led by Edan Clarke and Kooper Thomas, repelling every forward thrust that Buninyong attempted. Every player on the ground contributed and the Hepburn Kookaburras were able to run out convincing 36 to 6 winners and claim the 2019 CHFL U12 Lightning Premiership.

Above, the winning Burras team Image & words: Contributed

Hepburn Springs golf

T

HE 13-hole competition, played on April 18, was won by Laurie Pitcher with 31 points. Nearest the pin on the 11th was Bill Jones. Neil Egan got the birdie hole on the 10th.

The men played the Stableford scoring system on April 20. Harry Strawthorn was best score of the day with 42 points. Nearest the pin on the 15th was Neil Bruce. Peter Fell eagled the par 5 10th. Two matches of singles knockout were also played. Tim Murphy won 10/8 with a walkover. Jake Prewitt Beat Mick Walsh 2 up.

The men played Stableford for the RSL Trophy on April 27. Winner of A grade was John Scarffe with 38 points. Winner of B grade and the trophy was John Fergusson with 42 points. Nearest the pin on the 17th was John Arnold. Neil Egan eagled the par 4 12th.

The men played stroke for the May monthly medal on May 4. Winner of A grade was Ian Rodgers with 75-11-64. Winner of B grade and the medal was Heath Bolton with 78-16-62.

The 13-hole competition, played on May 9, was won by Chris Bell with 28 points.

Nearest the pin on the 11th was Neil Bruce.

Four matches were played in the first round of the doubles knockout on May 11. John Fergusson and Neil Jobson beat Kane Trimble and Mick Walsh 5/3. Pat Baird and John Scarffe beat Andrew Guiney and Col Richardson 2 up. Peter Fell and Jon Barrell beat Kevin Gilchrist and Graeme Lucas 4/2. Wayne Mobbs and Leon Hedwards beat Tim Murphy and John Krunic on the 20th.

The rest of the field played Stableford. Best score of the day was Ian Rodgers with 35 points. Nearest the pin on the 8th was Neil Jobson.

www.tlnews.com.au

Dining 19

Wild Mushroom Hotpot My Wild Mushroom Hotpot is the perfect wholesome and nourishing comfort food to revitalise the body and promote good health. Serve in generous bowls and instantly feel the healing benefits.

GLUTEN-FREE + NOURISH + WHOLESOME INGREDIENTS Serves 4 1.2 kg (39 oz) organic chicken carcass 6 litres (192 fl oz) water ½ teaspoon flaked sea salt 1 onion, cut in half and gently charred in a hot dry pan 300 g (10 1/2 oz) carrots Slice of fresh ginger, thinly sliced 100 g (3 1/2 oz) celery 250 g (8 oz) 100% gluten-free buckwheat soba noodle 1 tablespoon tamari soy sauce 1 tablespoon mirin 1 tablespoon dried wakame, rehydrated 1 teaspoon roasted sesame seeds Shichimi togarashi (accompaniment) MUSHROOM MIX 1 tablespoon olive oil 600 g (21 oz) Swiss brown mushrooms, sliced and whole 100 g (3 ½ oz) maitake or oyster mushrooms 100 g (3 ½ oz) enoki mushrooms 30 g (1 oz) shiitake mushrooms 1 tablespoon butter ¼ teaspoon flaked sea salt 3 spring onions, sliced Small bunch of coriander (cilantro) leaves, to garnish

METHOD PLACE chicken carcass in a stockpot with the water.

ADD sea salt, onion, carrot and celery.

SIMMER partially covered over a low heat for 5 hours, skimming the broth regularly to remove any surface fat and scum.

STRAIN the stock through a fine muslin.

REFRIGERATE overnight and remove all the excess fat that solidifies over the top.

COOK buckwheat noodles until al dente and cool under cold running water until needed.

HEAT the chicken stock and add tamari and mirin.

HEAT olive oil in a separate pan and saute the mushrooms until golden. Add sea salt, spring onion and coriander then beurre monté with butter at the end.

REFRESH one portion of cooked noodles in simmering water, drain and place into a serving bowl.

POUR stock over noodles. Add wakame and mushrooms.

GARNISH with roasted sesame seeds and serve with shichimi togarashi on the side.

NOTES AND INSPIRATION This should be served as a main course meal in large bowls. For vegetarian option, use homemade vegetable stock in place of chicken stock.

Website: www.thehealthychef.com Instagram: @teresacutter_healthychef Facebook: The Healthy Chef @healthychefteresacutter

Lee returns to Daylesford Bowling Club

L

EE Littlepage has returned to the Daylesford Bowling Club's bistro.

Lee, who ran the club's restaurant for about six years some time back, leaving to run Zest in Ballarat, said she had always enjoyed the atmosphere and patrons.

"The club has asked me a couple of times to come back but I was busy with other work and then working in aged care where I was keen to lift the standard.

"But now, with my new wife Jo Best, who is front of house, I am keen to work for myself again and get back into Daylesford life."

Lee said after running her restaurant she was already adding to the bistro's staples of parmas, steak and fish and chips.

"You will always have to ensure those staples are on the menu at a bowling club but I have a bit more of a restaurant style now.

"For example, along with the battered fish, I also have a fresh Australian barramundi served with specialty vegetables, not just carrots and peas.

"I also make my own Peking duck spring rolls, chicken and brie filo parcels, and a really nice pea and haloumi fritter. I guess there will be a bit of variety until I find my feet."

Lee said she remembers Friday nights being a bit of an institution at the bowling club with lots of locals and visitors making the most of an affordable and fun night out.

"We would get a lot of wedding parties and people having girls' nights out and they might be booked somewhere fancy on the Saturday night but were after something fun on the Friday night.

"There's also the Friday night raffle and the visitors loved the chance to meet the locals as well. I am looking forward to catching up with everyone again."

Daylesford Bowling Club bistro is open for lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Sunday. Bookings on 5348 2130.

Pictured, left, Jo Best and right, Lee Littlepage, offering great food and service (Read more about Lee and the bistro in The Local's dine review in the Monday, June 3 edition.)

20 Dining

www.tlnews.com.au

THURSDAY

BEER GARDEN

Mains from $22

Locals Menu – all day when everyone is a local 2 Courses $32 3 Courses $37 3 Courses + Wine of Week $42

Kids menu & regular menu also available

OPEN

EVERY DAY 7.30am - 3pm Except some public holidays.

No bookings required.

Thursday to Saturday 11am – close Sunday 11am – 4pm 31 High Street, Trentham (03) 5424 1144

theplough.com.au

FUNCTIONS

Private dining room Catering for 8-30 guests Set menus available

The Chaplin’s crew are back and better than ever. We have settled into our new space, just a few doors down.

Visit us for breakfast & lunch, or pop-in for a warm drink and cake.

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

BOOKBARN@DAYLESFORD END OF LEASE SALE

WWW.CASAELREY.COM.AU

ANDREW 0418 320 458 BOOKBARN@BIGPOND.COM OPEN 6 DAYS - CLOSED TUESDAY

www.pizzerialaluna.com.au

SU

BURGERS

La L na

BBQ RIBS

“The home of tasty burgers” DINE IN - FOOD TO GO - DELIVERY Street “New Autumn105 MenuVincent out now” 105 Vincent Street 7 days 03 5348 3884 www.galleydiner.com.au

Daylesford

w

N

delivering

DA

on

Pizzeria

GALLEY

TS

VEGAN / VEGETARIAN OPTIONS SALAD BOWLS / SPUDS NEW FALAFEL BURRITO NEW SURF & TURF BURRITO COCONUT PRAWNS & MORE!

ALL CAFÉ EQUIPMENT FOR SALE, NO REASONABLE OFFERS REFUSED, DISPLAY FRIDGES, FREEZERS, COFFEE MACHINE, TABLES/CHAIRS, PLATES,CUPS,SAUCERS,GLASSES FULL LIST ON REQUEST, INSPECT WHILE IN OPERATION MAKE AN OFFER, SECURE PICK UP AFTER QUEEN'S BIRTHDAY WE ALSO HAVE BOOKCASES FOR SALE AND OUR 50% OFF MARKED PRICE EVERY BOOK IN THE SHOP CONTINUES

No

“New Menu Available now”

Y NIG

H

Thursday, Sunday, Monday 5pm - 9pm Friday and Saturday 5pm - 10pm Tuesday & Wednesday CLOSED

HOME DELIVERIES FRIDAY TO SUNDAY 5348 4123 t "MCFSU 4U %BZMFTGPSE 7JDUPSJB

ON THE BANKS OF LAKE DAYLESFORD

Exquisite water views from any vantage point, The Boathouse Restaurant offers a sophisticated dining venue for lunch and dinner. You can take in the beautiful views from our warm and cosy indoor dining area for winter catch ups and our outdoor deck and seating area during the warmer months.

The Boathouse Restaurant provides year-round comfort with stylish food and a relaxed yet professional style of service, making it the perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine over a meal with family and friends.

Cellarbrations @ foxxy’s - our region’s largest local and boutique wine specialists.

Open every day until late.

55 Vincent Street, Daylesford.

5348 3577

LUNCH - Wednesday to Sunday - 11.30-2.30 DINNER - Thursday, Friday & Saturday - 5.30-8.30 The Boathouse Restaurant does not take bookings for lunch but welcomes guests on a walk in basis. Bookings available for dinner.

2 Leggatt Street, Daylesford | 03 5348 2199

22 Out & About

New gallery to open at Bullarto

A

WARD-winning artist Phillip Edwards is opening the Bullarto Gallery at 962 Daylesford-Trentham Road, on June 8.

Edwards has been living in the region for the past two years and in that time has been a finalist in the Wynne Prize at the Gallery of NSW, winning the Trustees' Watercolour Prize, a finalist in the Calleen Art Award in NSW and the Kennedy Prize in Adelaide.

The Bullarto Gallery, a short stroll from the historic Bullarto Station, will showcase his large-scale expressive landscape works of Mt Buffalo National Park, the Flinders Ranges and local scenes of the Wombat State Park and Sailors Creek.

“It’s been a passion project…a dream to have my own gallery for over a decade. So much sweat and energy has been injected into Bullarto Gallery and my art in the past three years.”

Initially the gallery will be exhibiting an ongoing array of Edwards’ stunning landscapes and be a place of creative demonstration as he paints during business hours.

The grounds will be expanded into a sculpture garden. Edwards will also be offering ongoing group classes for locals and intensive weekend workshops.

Edwards’ painting style is best described as realist, but his technique has evolved via an energy found in the environment. Watercolour flows, ink dashes and vigorous mark making all add to the vibrancy of his works.

Bullarto Gallery’s official opening is on June 8 from 2pm and it will be open over the Queens Birthday long weekend between 10am and 4pm.

Details: Phillip Edwards on 0408 529 725 or info@phillipedwards.net

www.tlnews.com.au

Meal Deals 23

Meal deals for locals - and visitors!

E

VERYONE loves a good meal deal. So here are some of the dining establishments offering great food and great prices!

Community Lunch:

The 5000 Club, Daylesford is open for lunch from noon every Friday from June 7 at Victoria Park, Daylesford. All welcome.

Raffles:

Monday:

Peppers Mineral Springs, Hepburn - Feed me - includes a glass of beer or wine $45pp

Fundraising raffles for local organisations are held on Friday evenings at the Farmers Arms Hotel, Daylesford, the Cosmopolitan Hotel, Trentham and the Daylesford Bowling Club.

Wednesday:

Mamma Dona's, Kyneton - a range of parmas, $15 takeaway or $18 eat-in

Thursday:

Daylesford Hotel, Daylesford – Steak Night - $25 The Plough, Trentham - Locals' All Day Dining - 2 courses $27/3 courses $32

Friday:

Criterion Hotel, Castlemaine - Express Jalapeno Poppers $12, Fried Chicken Wings $12, Refried Bean Rolls $12, Fried Baby Calamari Tostada $16, 12-2.30pm

Sunday:

Daylesford Hotel, Daylesford - Roast, a pot or glass of wine or soft drink - $25 Daylesford Bowling Club - Parma Night - $14, 5.30pm-8.30pm

Business Networking Event Daylesford Hotel Wednesday, June 19 from 5.30pm All welcome RSVPs by Monday, June 17 to rpedretti@hepburn.vic.gov.au Supported by:

Monday - Friday (Not available public holidays or school holidays) Galley Diner, Daylesford - lunch deal - burger, soft drink, fries - $17 Casa El Rey, Daylesford - lunch deal - burrito, soft drink - $15

Introducing our newly refurbished (and now private) dining room.

Perfect for functions and parties.

For bookings please email functions@farmersarmsdaylesford.com.au 1 EAST ST DAYLESFORD

•

03 5348 2091 • THEFARMERSARMS.COM.AU

24 Dining

www.tlnews.com.au

Taste of Sicily in the heart of Kyneton

M

AMMA Dona’s is an authentic taste of Sicily right in the heart of Kyneton. It is very much a family affair with Dona Straka handling the cooking with help from husband Donald and their three boys Nathaniel, Luka and Caleb.

They have taken over a large old space in Mollison Street and have set about creating a restaurant that is more of a home away from home than just a place to have lunch or dinner.

“We have been here about six months and we have become very busy, especially due to the locals who keep coming back to enjoy our homemade food and relaxing atmosphere. I have always been passionate about Sicilian cuisine - they are the recipes I grew up with and I want to pass them on to our diners,” Dona said.

Mamma Dona’s is gaining popularity in town for many culinary reasons including some wonderful arancini and cannelloni choices and especially the gnocchi, made with ricotta cheese in the Sicilian style. They also offer a spectacular antipasto, featuring Italian-cured meats, cheeses and preserved vegetables - with jam, sauces and pickles made on the premises.

Entrées As well as a regular menu selection including gluten-free dishes, they make sure everything is available as an entrée or main. That’s because one never knows, until it is too late, just how hearty and filling real Italian fare can be. They also have an everchanging weekly specials board for the more adventurous diners.

We selected the antipasto for two ($27) and their excellent arancini balls (traditional risotto balls covered in bread crumbs and fried). The special was a spicy recipe with salami and pieces of black olive in a smooth Napoli sauce. ($12.)

Wines Next we decided on some suitable wines to go with our mains. I’m a fan of the popular Tuscan wine La Vendetta sangiovese and took this as my selection at $10 a glass. Amanda chose an Elgo Estate Allira chardonnay at $8 a glass.

Mains The crisp chardonnay went well with the pillowy soft cannelloni ($23) that arrived stuffed with fresh spinach and ricotta with rocket and pine nuts. And my savoury sangiovese perfectly complemented the gnocchi ($24) special, also with chopped pieces of hearty salami and olives.

Then there was the option of sampling a second gnocchi dish ($22) from the main menu that came with a sage and butter sauce. Naturally we didn’t hesitate and it was wonderfully rich and elegant.

Desserts As expected, our appetites were well and truly sated after finishing these selections, but we still had to try some dessert. Their options are not on the menu, you just go up to the counter and take your pick from treats such as tiramisu, chocolate almond cake (gluten-free), and rhubarb ricotta cake - all at $4.50 a slice or, you can get a cake and coffee deal for just $6. We chose the pickled peach and ricotta cake served with cream. Sadly, we didn’t have the space for coffee, no matter how tempting.

Something else Mamma Dona’s is a great place to visit and the prices are amazing for such wonderful food, and they also have a great takeaway menu. There's also an eat-in special offering one child's meal free with every adult main meal. Oh, and locals' night is Wednesday with a new range of parmas at just $15 takeaway or $18 to eat in. There are plenty of couches too if you just want to come in, have some cake and coffee, and while away the hours in the proper Italian manner.

Words & images: Anthony Sawrey

Mamma Dona’s Restaurant Kyneton’s Little Italy!

Traditional Home-Cooked Italian Favorites 138 Mollison St, Kyneton 5422 1106 Wed, Thur & Sun:12pm-8pm Fri, Sat: 12pm-Late

Mammadonas @mamma_donas

www.tlnews.com.au

News 25

Gig Guide Peppers Mineral Springs Hotel, Hepburn Live music - 2nd and 4th Friday of the month K&R - Friday, May 24, 4pm-7pm Andy Lacy - June 14 & 28, 4pm-7pm

Daylesford Cidery, Musk The Martel Blues Duo - Sunday, June 9

Blue Bean Love Cafe, Hepburn Scott Fraser - Friday, May 24 Andy Lacy - Saturday, May 25 North East - Sunday, May 26 The Lefties - Friday, May 31 Paige & Wayne - Saturday, June 1 Buck Jr. - Sunday, June 2 Corrine & Cal - Friday, June 7 Never easy - Saturday, June 8 Open Mic - Sunday, June 9 Andrea Robertson - Friday, June 14 Aurora - Saturday, June 15 Ellerby - Sunday, June 16

subj All gigs ec Fees t to chan ma ge!

Che y apply. ck w ith the v enue .

Guildford Family Hotel, Guildford Bush Gothic - Guildford/Castlemaine album launch - Saturday, May 25, 7.30pm-9.30pm

The Palais, Hepburn Springs Sean Dixon - Friday, May 24, 8.30pm-10.30pm Cash Savage & the Last Drinks album tour - Saturday, May 25, 7.30pm-1am Becci Cole - Sunday, May 26, 3pm The Goldfields Jazz Orchestra - Sunday, June 2, 3pm-5pm Boogie Nights - Saturday, June 8 Noel Howard & High Tea - Sunday, June 9, 3pm-5pm Freya Josephine Hollick - Saturday, June 22, 7.30pm-1am

Bellinzona, Hepburn Live music - every second Saturday night (Next June 1)

Scrub Hill, Newlyn Sunday - 30 June 2019 Sugar ‘n’ Spice Homebrew CD launch and Fat Chance Sunday, June 30, 2pm-4pm

Got a gig coming up? Email news@tlnews.com.au It's free!

I

From Kyneton to Broadway via Ballarat

F YOU’VE heard about Off Broadway shows, you’ll know they are usually new musicals and plays that are tested in theatres that are quite literally “Off Broadway”.

Well, Kyneton now has its own version with the upcoming production of Wintersong, a Musical. Written by Kyneton’s Kathleen McLennan and composed

by Macedon’s Scott Cameron, this show has all the hallmarks of a fantastic musical drama and is being produced for the first time by Kyneton Theatre Company.

Supported by a cast of versatile performers from all over the region and set in the Macedon Ranges and Ballarat in 1891, Wintersong, A Musical, tells the story of a concert pianist – Vincent, whose glittering career has been cut short by illness.

Working at the local school for girls, Vincent discovers Adriana, an shy ingénue whose singing talents reignite his passion for music and set the characters on a journey of discovery. Wintersong brings to life the colour and grandeur of the gold rush period and as an original work, Wintersong has a rich and complex musical score which suits the characters and story beautifully.

Kyneton Theatre Company is a community theatre group with a mission to provide a safe and supportive space for young people to discover and explore theatre.

By producing an all new and local production, Kyneton Theatre Company is excited to be able to bring fresh entertainment to the community and at the same time support local artists.

Wintersong, A Musical runs for two weeks, opening on June 14.

Tickets: trybooking.com/484934 or call 5422 7002.

Words & images: Caroline Schmidt

26 Trades

www.tlnews.com.au

A unique heater manufactured in Daylesford from Australian products

Railway Crescent, Daylesford P: 03

5348 2586

F: 03 5348 1200 E: nedkelly@woodheaters.com.au

www.woodheaters.com.au

Consulting in Administration & Management Book-keeping Administration Payroll Temp service Supplier monthly reconciliation Qualified to manage a small team of office workers Christ Jules Services Julie Hanson 0459 619 701 julphil.hanson@gmail.com www.christjulesservices.com.au

POOL AND SPA MAINTENANCE SERVICES DAYLESFORD AND SPA COUNTRY Over 25 years’ experience in the Pool and Spa industry.

Cleaning and servicing of pools, hot tubs and jacuzzis.

Water chemistry and water balance Commercial properties Domestic applications Reasonable rates All enquiries welcome Noel 0419 554 319 Declan 0438 212 107

Builder

of Beautiful Homes 8-10 Star Energy Rating Super Insulated Strawbale Construction Carpentry Consultancy PER BERNARD Registration DBU-3633

pershivajai@gmail.com

0418 133 426 PLASTERER DAYLESFORD FIBROUS PLASTER WORKS (MACKLEY’S) • NEW HOMES • RENOVATIONS • CEILING ROSES • ORNAMENTAL CORNICE Daylesford

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

www.tlnews.com.au

Clement F Mooney

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

Tel: 03 5424 1441 Mobile: 0412 584 555

A.B.N. 37 961 487 978

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

Office: 19 Albert Street, Trentham 3458

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

Trades 27

DAYLESFORD APPLIANCE SERVICE

das3460@bigpond.com

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

Call Kiyo on

0419 267 685

das3460@bigpond.com

PH: 0400 059 613 - 5348 6634 ADMIN@JESSEDAWKINSGARDENS.COM.AU WWW.JESSEDAWKINSGARDENS.COM.AU

0423 945 436

Daylesford Newsagency & Tattslotto Newspapers, magazines, Tattslotto, dry-cleaning, stationery, photocopying and lots more...

We stock The Local!

55 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2061

28 News

www.tlnews.com.au

Hepburn runners-up

H

EPBURN'S U13B netball side headed across to Waubra for the CHNL Lightning Premiership competition looking forward to a great day of playing netball with their mates.

Little did they know they were to play some outstanding netball throughout the day, time and time again displaying their skills and exceptional teamwork, winning all of their scheduled games, taking them straight into the grand final.

Here they met Bungaree, a more experienced team and finished the day as runners-up, but with their heads held high that they did the best they could.

Words & image: Contributed

From top left clockwise, mum Kirstie Allen and Arlia, Grace Nevill, Jamie Anderson and Alwyn Livy. Images: Melanie Thurstun

Leonards Hill Baby Show Saturday, May 4 Results: Main section Section 1 - Birth - 9 Months.

SEPTIC SYSTEM INSPECTION & MAINTENANCE 1st Nate Kerr from Alfredton Section 2 - 9 Months - 18 Months.

LAND CAPABILITY ASSESSMENT services 1st Bradyn Blanch from Ballan SEPTIC SYSTEM INSPECTION &SYSTEM MAINTENANCE INSPECTION SEPTIC Section 3 - 18 Months - 3Years.

WISH MOVING HOUSE 1st Emma Kerr from Alfredton & MAINTENANCE WAS THIS EASY? 2nd Tiffany Anderson from Campbells Creek No matter if you are moving into the area for the first time, Section 4 - 3 Years to 5 Years.

PERIODIC INSPECTION AND REPORTING moving to the big smoke or just moving across town - we will take 1st Grace Nevill from Coomoora OF WASTEWATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS care of you and your prized possessions like its our own home we 2nd Jamie Anderson from Campbells Creek are moving. Locally owned and operated, Oz Trans are the leading local removalist and general transport specialists in the entire TROUBLESHOOTING AND MAINTENANCE Novelty section Daylesford and Central Highlands region for over 25 years.

Happiest baby - Bradyn Blanch from Ballan SUPERVISION OF SLUDGE PUMP-OUT • Home, piano and • Furniture deliveries Curliest hair - Alwyn Livy from Sailors Hill commercial removals (new & second-hand) Rosiest cheeks - Arlia Allen from Daylesford LATEST SLUDGE-JUDGE TECHNOLOGY • House packing services • General freight and produce Youngest baby - Nate Kerr from Alfredton 12• Sensitive freight cartage • All kinds of art cared for • Bulk freight, dry and chilled weeks-old • Packing supplies available Champion baby - Nate Kerr from Alfredton www.sanae-svcs.com.au Miss & Master Tiny Tot (2 to 5 Years) CALL JASON 0407 697 877 PO Box 1040, Daylesford, VIC 3460 WWW.OZ-TRANS.COM.AU Miss Tiny Tot - Emma Kerr from Alfredton koos.hulst@sanae-svcs.com.au Master Tiny Tot - Ace Orr from Melton South REGULAR RUNS TO MELBOURNE, GEELONG, BALLARAT, Prince - Bradyn Blanch from Ballan (03) 5348 4852 or 0437 747 619 BENDIGO AND EVERYWHERE IN-BETWEEN. Princess - Arlia Allen from Daylesford

services

F R EIG H T · T RANSP ORT · REM OVALS

DAY LE S FORD A N D C E N T R A L H I GH L A N D S

www.tlnews.com.au

Markets 29

To market, to market...to buy some chestnuts

Y

OU can find everything you need at weekend markets, from fresh fruit and veg to handmade jewellery and wares, throughout the Central Highlands and surrounds. Here are just a few.

Daylesford Sunday Market – every Sunday Wesley Hill Market - every Saturday Daylesford Farmers Market – first Saturday Trentham Neighbourhood Centre Makers Market - first Saturday Golden Plains Farmers Market - first Saturday Woodend Farmers Market - first Saturday Castlemaine Artists’ Market – first Sunday Trentham Community Group Market - second Saturday Kyneton Farmers Market - second Saturday Ballan Farmers Market - second Saturday Kyneton Rotary Community Market – second Saturday Maldon Market – second Sunday Clunes Farmers Market - second Sunday Trentham Farmers Market and Makers Market - third Saturday Glenlyon Farmers Market – third Saturday Leonards Hill Market - third Saturday Creswick Market - third Saturday Talbot Farmers Market – third Sunday Woodend Lions Market - third Sunday (Not held during winter) Trentham Station Sunday Market - fourth Sunday Buninyong Village Market - fourth Sunday

The Trentham Farmers Market has joined with Trentham Makers Market

Third Saturday, 9am - 1pm

TRENTHAM PETROL & STUFF 1 Market St PH 5424 1611 Mon - Sat 8am - 6pm Sun 9am - 6pm Petrol, oils, swap & go gas, firewood permits, farm produce / produce store, ice, milk, soft drinks, take-away pies, coffee, confectionery, local honey etc. rusty junk, secondhand books, old wares

30 Opinion

www.tlnews.com.au

Pick me, pick me...

Just sayin’...

By Donna Kelly

W

OW. The 150th edition. Who knew?

Well, we kind of did. We hoped anyway. We started The Local as a monthly 20-A4 page publication almost six years ago after many people said "you should do your own newspaper".

After that first proud delivery of just 500 copies, and being shouted "I can't find a copy" by one frantic woman as she ran past, we thought we had a good formula. It also became clear that people wanted something a bit more regular and so we became fortnightly.

We still have that first edition. There's a racy photo of Ian Tinetti, a story on artist Keele Breen and a lovely photo of a child watering daffodils with a teapot at Verna Baker's place.

It is also the only edition not online. Instead we did a pretty amateur hour YouTube clip of me thumbing through it with a glass of wine in hand. No surprises there. We discovered Issuu.com not long after that first publication - and the next 149 editions are all at www. tlnews.com.au - ready for your reading pleasure.

It's been a great ride. Kyle and I were quickly joined by a fantastic crew and with the amazing amount of talented and interesting people around the region, Kyle gave up his initial worry of "what if we run out of stories?"

We have a story board which we update each edition and there are always more than we can ever cover. Some have been on the board so long we just whistle as we write them up again. One day I will do a feature on Confest. And one day Kyle will do time-lapse photography of how many cars actually use the electric charging station outside the Daylesford Town Hall.

Along with promoting the region we have also promoted animal welfare with our Pick Me, Pick Me column - there on the right. Lots of dogs, cats, guinea pigs and the odd rabbit have found forever homes thanks to that column, which is run in memory of our own rescue pups Rosie and Curly. They both passed away three years ago but they also had their own occasional columns, which were very well read. A reader once stopped me in the street to say Rosie's column was the best thing in The Local. Rosie was pretty chuffed to hear that.

We have also done what we call Connecting the Community, which basically offers two free adverts to not-for-profit groups every edition. The uptake is enormous. We did it because we have both been in community organisations that run on the smell of an oily rag and often have no money left over for advertising. It's just a way of giving back.

Mostly it's been a lot of fun and a real privilege to enter people's homes and chat about their lives. I've worked on papers around Australia and even a couple overseas and I have never enjoyed journalism more than right now. And judging by the way our baskets empty each edition, you are enjoying the ride as well. Whoever said print is dead wasn't reading The Local. Just sayin'...

Hi there, I am Duchess. I am just 10 weeks old and a confident girl who enjoys playing with my two brothers. I’m highly energetic, adventurous and happy to have pats and cuddles. I would suit a variety of homes if I’m given enough play time and companionship. MC#956000010546068 Mount Alexander Animal Welfare is at 24 Langslow Street, Castlemaine.

Phone 5472 5277.

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

The Local - Connecting the Community The Local is all about Connecting the Community.

We run good news stories about amazing people and places, and festivals and events. And our fantastic advertisers run great deals for locals and visitors alike.

To give back to the community, The Local has been running its Connecting the Community adverts for more than five years. The adverts are for not-for-profit groups and organisations to lend a hand when finances can be a bit tight - or just don't exist. We all know how hard it can be to make volunteer-run organisations work on the smell of an oily rag!

To apply just email donna@tlnews.com.au with your event or organisation. We also put call-outs on our Facebook page and those of the various communities in our wonderful region. We work on a first-in basis, with a nod to time-lines too.

There are a few conditions, well mostly that nonfor-profit bit, and also that you aren't grabbing a free advert and then we see a whacking big paid advert in other media. That wouldn't be fair.

Cheers, Donna (Ed)

CAN YOU HELP REDEFINE RURAL POSSIBILITIES? Would you support rural school leavers to achieve their dream of a university or vocational education by making a tax deductible donation?

Youthrive Victoria is a charity that strengthens rural communities. It supports young people through scholarships, mentoring and leadership programs.

TO DONATE VISIT youthrivevictoria.org.au/donate 85A Albert St, Creswick VIC 3363 Phone: 03 6281 8303

www.tlnews.com.au

Kyle’s Rant

H

ERE we are with Edition 150. That means for 300 weeks, without stop, the team at The Local has provided the Central Highlands with its best source of news and profiles of locals doing great local, and sometimes international, stuff.

So, what has the journey been like for me? A lot of people know the original yarn of how we came up with the first concept of a monthly newsletter for Daylesford and Hepburn and by the end of delivery had decided to increase our reach to the rest of the Central Highlands and become a fortnightly read. Simple, right? But what many folks aren’t aware of is the behind-the-scenes shifting of the media landscape and uncertainty for the media industry. Since we threw our small doors open, in 2013, media laws have changed to encourage giant corporations such as Nine to be across multi-platforms such as radio, newspapers and TV. Nine even bought up the Hepburn Advocate from Fairfax for a nano-second and then flipped it off again.

Many of our competitors have changed ownership, re-branded and, in some cases, ceased to exist. It is a tough market for newspapers and magazines out there with the rise and rise of social media platforms and some people’s inability to consume more than bite-sized news chunks. Just watch the TV and look at the news formula, which is designed for non-thinkers. It starts with a car accident, bombing and tragic weather event, followed by lighter news, sport and weather all bundled together with a cute panda cub being born at the end.

Anyway back to our story. We gave birth to this magazine a little under six years ago and I have enjoyed the ride so far with our diverse position in the community helping groups and people to get their messages out, while meeting some wild, weird and wacky people on the way. We have also, on a few occasions, uncovered some pretty uncomfortable truths with bureaucrats trying to go the rip, the fake news that gets around on local social media sites and the early demise and untimely folding of public events.

A couple of things that I gauge the success of The Local on is the praise we receive for getting people’s yarns correct and on message, but more particularly the evaporation of The Local out of our news baskets. While our competitors’ products sit around in baskets for months or roll around shrouded in plastic in a muddy driveway, The Local is whisked away into homes, put pride of place on the coffee table in B&Bs and collected by thoughtful people for distribution to their neighbours. The baskets are bone-dry each time we deliver, and that is success for me.

One last thing during this 150-edition journey, which started with just Donna and me, we have picked up some amazing talent along the way: fabulous journalists, sub-editors, photographers, graphic designers and admin folks right through to our guy who does delivery. A special shout-out to all the crew who make it possible to deliver this dynamic, informative and enthralling publication on-time, every time.

Proud rant over…

Opinion 31

Just a few of the crew: Nick, David, Lindsay, Kevin, Kate, Kyle, Anthony and Donna

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

(03) 5422 6500 SINCE 1852

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

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

Salvage Yard

Structural timbers, hundreds of doors and windows, landscaping timbers, ex-commercial double glazed glass, steel, masonry and found objects... right down to hard to find hardware and homewares!

Now also supplying a range of small production, sustainably sourced new timbers for flooring, decking, overlay and cladding.

Also, manufacturers of custom designed engineered trusses from recycled timbers.

6 Lewis Drive Castlemaine • 0435 500 112 • www.thesalvageyard.com.au