The Local Issue 171 March 9, 2020

March 9, 2020 Issue 171 New wildlife hospital

The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

2 About Us

www.tlnews.com.au

Front cover: The Hepburn Wildlife Shelter, run by Jon Rowdon, pictured, and Gayle Chappell, is building a 24-hour regional wildlife shelter. They need your help.

Read The Local's exclusive story on page 14.

March 9, 2020 Issue 171 Wildlife Warriors

every time you’re "Substitute ‘damn’ ll ry’; your editor wi inclined to write ‘ve it as st ju be ll iting wi delete it and the wr Twain should be." ~Mark

Image: Kyle Barnes

The Local - The Heart of the Highlands

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

The Local is a fortnightly community publication covering the Central Highlands. The next edition is out on Monday, March 23, 2020.

Or online on Sunday, March 22 at www.tlnews.com.au Advertising deadlines for the next edition of The Local: Space bookings: Wednesday, March 18 Copy deadline: Thursday, March 19 Editorial deadline: Thursday, March 19

Cartoonist | Glenn Robinson Columnists | Glen Heyne (gardening), Indre Kisonas (design), Sam Redlich (wellbeing), Tanya Loos (nature) and Matthew Richardson (money) Business Development | Charl Parris Accounts | Julie Hanson

Delivery | Anthony Sawrey

Managing editor | Donna Kelly General manager | Kyle Barnes

Call us for news and advertising on 5348 7883 or 0416 104 283 Email: news@tlnews.com.au or sales@tlnews.com.au

Sub-editors | Nick Bunning and Lindsay Smith

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

Writers | Kevin Childs, Kate Taylor, Anthony Sawrey, Peter Young and Donna Kelly

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...

Photographers | Kyle Barnes and David White Graphic designer & HLH coordinator | Dianne Caithness

The Pool Room! *Victorian Country Press Association 2019 Highly Commended - Best Photo Study - Kyle Barnes and Anthony Sawrey *Victorian Country Press Association 2019 Commended - Best Photo Study - Kyle Barnes *Daylesford Rotary's 2017 Employee of the Year - Kate Taylor *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

Inspiring 3

Going, going, Sienna's hair is almost gone

I

F RAPUNZEL and Goldilocks had raised money for charities, their fairy tales might have been as impressive as 11-year-old Sienna McLeod’s reallife story.

Sienna has been growing her gorgeous hair for three years now and will soon cut it off and donate it to Variety to be made into a wig for an alopecia or cancer patient.

On top of that, she’s using the event to raise money for Shannon’s Bridge, a Creswick-based charity that connects families with home-based services for end-of-life care, in memory of her grandmother.

Sienna’s goal is to raise $1000 – and hopefully, that target will be smashed to give Sienna her own fairy tale ending to her heart-warming story.

“It’s a bit overwhelming, all the attention,” Sienna says.

“Everyone is saying that I’ll look really different with my hair cut off. But I won’t miss it… it’s a bit of a pain.”

As mum Kayla Riley explains, Sienna is no stranger to fundraising for a good cause.

“Nine years ago, my mum died of cancer and we’ve always dug deep for fundraising for cancer research and things - we were involved in Relay For Life for three or four years and we raised about $30,000 over those years, and my girls were involved in it,” she explains.

“The local hairdresser used to give us her shop for the book fair, on the weekend to sell donated books and it was our major fundraiser for Relay For Life.”

So when she decided she wanted to chop her hair off and donate it for a wig, Sienna’s family was not surprised.

“She said to me ‘I want to cut my hair and send it straight to the Royal Children’s Hospital to help a child who’s lost their hair’ and I had to explain you can’t do it like that.

“She overheard me speaking about Shannon’s Bridge and after asking me lots of questions about it, she wanted to raise money for it.

“My mum’s wish was to stay at home but we didn’t have the resources for that so she died in hospital, so Sienna decided she wanted to raise some money for Shannon’s Bridge.”

Sienna’s hair will be cut at Clunes Primary School on Friday, March 27 – when it’s in a low ponytail it measures 45.5cm and it's brown with beautiful sun-kissed gold highlights. After the chop it will end up just above her shoulders.

“It’s a bit nerve-wracking,” Sienna said about the big chop in front of the school, of which she is vice-captain.

Already, a donation tin at the Clunes IGA has tallied $85 and the overall donations count will be done on the day before Sienna’s haircut.

Donations can easily be made to help Sienna smash her $1000 target – either inperson at the Clunes and Creswick Bendigo community banks by direct deposit into the Shannon’s Bridge fundraiser account, or with internet banking using the reference ‘Sienna fundraiser’ with the BSB: 633000 and account number: 167556174.

Words: Kate Taylor | Image: Contributed

“My mum’s wish was to stay at home but we didn’t have the resources for that so she died in hospital, so Sienna decided she wanted to raise some money for Shannon’s Bridge.”

4 Words

www.tlnews.com.au

Local Lines The hidden side

Good Friday appeal

In the house of undoing and letting anything go, in the sign of reckoning, vetting the constant flow, its Mercury running reverse in the sky again.

I sit under cover and watch the gentle rain.

Deep in my little puddle of peace for once, and finding the sage who lives beside the dunce, many hidden things come out to play to tease and taunt and strut and slip away.

One forgotten scene or thought at a time comes for resolution, already primed.

And if you ask me how I keep my peace, I allow, allow, allow, in quiet ease.

James Baillie James Baillie lives in Glenlyon and runs a business called 'The Arthritis Man'. He has been writing rhythm and rhyme as a hobby since age 11.

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

EOI FOR PROJECT ADVISORY GROUP FOR ARTISAN AGRICULTURE PROJECT Are you an Artisan Agriculture Producer in the Hepburn Shire or Central Highlands? Are you passionate about the longterm success of the sector? If this sounds like you, then we are looking for members to join the Project Advisory Group commencing early April in 2020.

The Project Advisory Group’s role will be to provide to Council, key insights of industry needs, barriers faced, and specialist knowledge and increase awareness of the Artisan Agriculture sector. Membership shall represent a diverse range of producers and may include meat production, beverages, fruits and vegetables, preserves, apiary, egg, poultry and other livestock.

For further information on how to apply please visit https:// www.hepburn.vic.gov.au/artisan-agriculture-project/.

Applications will close on 27 March 2020. For further information please contact the Artisan Agriculture Specialist, Sharon Hebbard on shebbard@hepburn.vic.gov.au or 0456 610 261.

N

AT Kirby has taken over the reins from Tania Henderson to become Daylesford's area manager for the Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal.

Tania has held the position for 18 years with Nat helping out for the past four years.

"It is an organisation I feel really strongly about. I have a little boy myself and I spent a bit of time in there as a kid, along with having friends with kids who have been in the hospital. It's just a really worthwhile charity," Nat said.

Tania would still be involved, Nat said, along with her helpers including her sisters and her mother and father, but she was going to try to bring even more people on board. "I have a pretty extensive list and am always happy for anyone to help in any capacity. And this community is just so generous."

Purple donation tins are in businesses all year round and a hamper raffle will be held two weeks out from Easter, with tickets sold in front of Coles Daylesford. Tins will also be rattled on Good Friday throughout the town.

Thurs 9 April - Mon 13 April, 2020 Entries close 13/3/2020

Opening & presentation of awards:

Thurs 9 April: 7.30pm (all welcome) Trentham Mechanics Hall 85 High Street, Trentham

Enquiries Entries – Jan -jan@trenthamartshow.org Or Violeta – violeta@trenthamartshow.org General - Bette - mclarenjr@bigpond.com

www.tlnews.com.au

Our artists 5

Trentham Art Show artist-in-residence

L

LAEL McDonald has been a professional artist for around 20 years.

She has sold her work all over the globe and exhibited in Australia, New York and Miami. Most recently she did a short residency at presidential portrait artist Mark Carder's studio in Austin, Texas where she "learnt a lot - yes, after 20-plus years I'm still learning".

Since her return Llael has done multiple workshops teaching oil painting techniques in her Trentham studio. She will have many more throughout the year along with a small exhibition of her work at the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Trentham next month.

Llael is also the artist-in-residence for the Trentham Easter Art & Craft Show. She chatted with Donna Kelly about what that means.

Donna: What's an artist-in-residence? What are your duties?

Llael: I'll be spending a week at the Bullarto Primary School and a week at the Trentham District Primary School painting murals with the kids. We’ll be focusing on Australian wildlife as the theme. They will be working with mural acrylics and will be helping paint in the mural designs. The Trentham District Primary School mural will be internal and the Bullarto Primary School will be an external mural. It's going to be a lot of fun. I'm excited to get the kids to help me fill out the canvas, I love teaching people how to paint and kids are always fun to work with on projects like this because they’re always so enthusiastic. When I was at primary school (in the 80s) I was lucky enough to have a friend whose father was an artist, I got to help him for a day painting the backgrounds for the dioramas at the Melbourne Museum. It cemented my path as a painter. I hope to introduce the kids to career possibilities in the creative arts in the same way.

Donna: What does your role mean for the show?

Llael: The Trentham Art Show's aim is to encourage kids to be creative and develop their love of art and craft. A group project like a mural is also a good way to teach kids cooperation and how to collaborate harmoniously and confidently on a creative project. The Trentham Art Show is keen to encourage more kids to enter their work in the show.

Donna: Is it an annual thing, the residency?

Llael: I'm not sure if Trentham Art Show will be doing this annually, you will have to ask them. It would be great if it were an annual thing, it's a great idea. It gives a chance for artists to extend their knowledge and skills to a future generation of artists. I'm not sure what the selection process is but I'm very honoured to have been asked.

Donna: The show is very well-known now, what do you think about the level of work on display each year?

Llael: It's a great show, it's getting bigger and the standard of work is getting higher every year. It's a huge tourist drawcard which is great for the local arts community as well as the wider community. A chance for artists to show their work and for visitors to buy some wonderful original artwork.

Link: www.llaelmcdonald.com The Trentham Easter Art & Craft Show is on at the Trentham Mechanics Hall from Thursday, April 9 to Monday, April 13. The opening and presentation of awards is on Thursday, April 9 from 7.30pm. All welcome.

"I'm excited to get the kids to help me fill out the canvas, I love teaching people how to paint and kids are always fun to work with on projects like this because they’re always so enthusiastic."

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 News

Macedon Ranges bin system adopted by Vic

M

ACEDON Ranges Shire Council has welcomed the Victorian Government’s announcement that residents around the state will soon follow the council’s lead and implement a four-bin kerbside collection service.

Last month the council introduced a new system comprising a rubbish/general waste bin (red lid), recycling bin (yellow lid), glass-only bin (purple lid) and a food organics garden organics (FOGO) bin (lime green lid).

Assets and Operations director Shane Walden said the council had been leading the way with its approach to reducing waste to landfill by implementing the new system.

“We’ve been working hard to find innovative solutions to the recycling crisis in partnership with our community,” Mr Walden said.

“Our customers have been very supportive over the last three weeks in embracing the change and sorting their waste into the various bins.”

All residents who receive the kerbside collection service have been provided with glass-only bins (about 20,000 new bins). The FOGO service is being phased in over five years. Around 14,000 residents and ratepayers have been supplied with kitchen caddies and compostable caddy liners as part of the first stage of the FOGO rollout and garden bins, now known as FOGO bins. See Your Say on page 9.

Nature Diary

www.tlnews.com.au

Social media advertising can be like trying to fill a cup from a waterfall.

Make sure your advert stands out in The Local!

One of the golden rules of wildlife rescue is that if an animal survives and can be released, it must be released where it was found. Animals such as tawny frogmouths with Tanya Loos have specific territories or home ranges – HE question I am most frequently asked is “I where they know where the best places to have found a bird that seems to be hurt – what find food are, the best sleeping (roosting) sites and nesting sites. This area is also where should I do?” their mates or family members are.

It is always the same answer – capture the bird using a Our family tawny was taken to a tea towel or towel, and place into an appropriately sized cardboard box. Then pop the wildlife carer in Gisborne – and after a week box in a quiet room away from pets and people – and call a wildlife rescue number or two, I travelled down to see if the bird was ready for release for assistance. Usually it is a friend or local person – but a couple of weeks ago I got In the picture you can see the loving hands of Lynda the wildlife carer as she "the question" via text from my teenage nephew. Nephew and mum had seen a bird was checking whether tawny’s wings were strong enough to fly. You can also see that on the road in Hepburn – an owl they thought, that wasn’t flying away. the feathers are slightly brown – which means she is a female bird. The males are The owl turned out to be a tawny frogmouth – a much-loved night bird that is commonly found in local forests and gardens. Even though tawnies are brownish-grey completely grey – a lovely ash colour, with the same fine patterning.

Tawny wasn’t ready then, but yesterday Lynda texted me saying that tawny has in colour, like owls, with big round eyes, they are quite different, and in a completely made a full recovery and is now ready to go back to her Hepburn forest. different bird family. Owls (strigidae family) are predators who hunt and kill their The car collision must have been a mild one. Sadly this is the exception – as prey with their huge fierce talons.

Tawny frogmouths capture their prey – mice, frogs, and insects with their beaks. animal-loving folks know – death by car is all too common. Driving slowly and carefully at night, dusk and dawn is the only solution.

Their feet are strangely weak, without big claws, and are used only for perching.

If you do hit an animal or bird, phone Wildlife Victoria on (03) 8400 7300 and Another difference between owls and frogmouths is that frogmouths are masters they will refer you to one of the many local wildlife carers in our region. of camouflage, with finely-patterned feathers, who adopt a special “broken stick” posture, where the frogmouths close their eyes and point their heads up to the sky.

Owls never do this.

T

ChillOut 2020

Images: Anthony Sawrey

A glass of red the colour of Autumn.

Sunsets that ripple with oranges and pinks.

Spectacular meals that match the view.

Exceptional service with food to match.

SPEND AUTUMN AT THE DAYLESFORD HOTEL LUNCH FRI - SUN 12-3PM DINNER 7 NIGHTS FROM 6PM DAYLESFORDHOTEL.COM.AU

8 News

www.tlnews.com.au

FARMERS ARMS HOTEL DAYLESFORD MAJOR SPONSOR Proudly supporting our community’s news

CWA's Central Highlands arts exhibition

C

RAFT and home industries from knitting and crochet to quilting, preserves to baked goods and the ubiquitous scone, will be on display when the CWA's Central Highlands Group holds its Creative Arts Exhibition at the Riddells Creek Community Centre on the weekend of March 21 and 22.

Members from 12 branches will demonstrate their skills across 29 categories.

Each year themes are given to inspire and challenge members’ creativity in craft (sea, shore and shells) and home industries (pumpkins, peaches and pears). Branches will each create a cushion to be judged, and then donated to The Royal Women’s Hospital accommodation unit.

Locals, visitors, families and friends are welcome to come and view the exhibition.

Group president Amanda Millar said the showcase of creative talent was always inspiring, particularly seeing young girls and boys getting involved and their excitement at being recognised for their entries.

All ages are welcome with an entry fee of $3 per adult with children under 16 free.

Lunch, morning and afternoon tea are also available at a fee. Handmade goods will be on sale and a raffle held to raise funds for the group.

Members will also be on hand to discuss joining the CWA. The Central Highlands Group has branches in Riddells Creek (night), Macedon, Woodend (night), Romsey, Lancefield, Heathcote (night), Trentham, Kyneton (a day and a night branch), Craigieburn, Gisborne and Sunbury (night).

The awards presentation will be held on the Sunday at 1.30pm.

Pictured, from left, Peg Higginbottom, Marion Place and Corrinne Heading, all from Kyneton Twilighters, with awards from last year

Holistic Funeral Directors

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

www.tlnews.com.au

Your Say...

Macedon Shire's four bins (Via email and FB)

I personally love the four-bin system and our family has easily made the necessary changes.

Letters 9

Water mining in a catchment zone is not good business. Understanding topographical contours, geological water flows and how bore water extraction may affect underground flows gives reason to be concerned that our community resource may be impinged.

I believe Daylesford and Hepburn residents could focus on Central Highlands Water to resolve the water extraction issues (associated with Goulburn Murray Water) instead of looking to the Hepburn Shire Council who are tied to the Planning and Environment Act.

- Ian Esmore, Eganstown

I do work in aged care in the Macedon Ranges, in home care. All of my clients are struggling to dispose of their incontinence aids.

The past two editions of The Local have published articles and letters showing Fortnightly collection is not enough due to the size and smell of these products. people aren’t interested in finding out, or telling the truth, regarding the They need weekly collections. water situation.

- Michelle (via email) A Daylesford delegation came from a meeting in Beechworth, with concerned locals there having the same difficulties with a certain water extraction company, and Love it. We have chooks and worms already. Whatever they can't have goes in did not disclose their findings.

Those findings pointed out reasons why actions the protesters here were taking the FOGO. Our red bin has hardly anything in it.

Even with a baby on the way I'm not worried as we use cloth nappies. I do think were doomed to fail. And the information misleading and misguided.

I am disappointed in those who should know better than to incite blame for this it would be great for the council to initiate some demos, workshops, incentives for present unrest about water to a decision that had to be made 14 years ago without families to use cloth nappies as other councils have done. It seems to be a sticking the accuser knowing the circumstances of the time; nor admitting that the actions point for some regarding the fortnightly red bin collection. of protesters then, not getting their information right, is the reason we now have to - Enn contend with Mr Carey.

If our innovative farm machinery business can’t hold out until the next upsurge I love the new system - I think having to sort our rubbish a little more gives of farmers’ fortunes, the pressure being put on us for the last two years regarding our excellent personal incentive to reduce waste in the first place.

Deep down I think we all want that, we just feel overwhelmed by the pace of life. property will have us to breaking point. People with vested interests have made sure only they will be the ones outbidding each other for our property by putting out false I’m proud the council have taken this step. information while they wait to pounce.

- Kirstie If you really want to do something positive there are alternatives but I guess you don’t care enough and only fight for what you can’t win.

Glenlyon

Cr John Cottrell now has used his cosy corner in The Local (Councillor's Corner, Edition 170) to continue his campaign of denigrating and misrepresenting the leadership of the Glenlyon Progress Association. And, more seriously, misleading the wider community about the forthcoming community planning review process.

It was the GPA, not (Hepburn Shire) council, who generated Glenlyon & District’s Community Plan in the first place - with invited representatives from Drummond and Coomoora. In claiming credentials to conduct the latest review, we have no wish to exclude or usurp these local communities. We would again welcome their input, or support them if they prefer to develop plans of their own.

My key objection to the proposed planning committees, or “charter groups”, is that they would be drawn from, not by, their communities. Members would have to apply for the job before being vetted and appointed by council. Then - no kidding “trained and educated” by a council officer.

According to Cr Cottrell, “independent” charter groups would “control” the review process. How does he reconcile this with the wording of the council resolution to authorise the process?

This was that council would “review and create” community plans (beginning with Glenlyon & District), with charter groups formed to “assist” in their development? So who is really in control?

Incidentally, from where did council pluck the grandiose term “charter groups”?

Its cultural appropriation by council bears no resemblance to its scientific definition in the Oxford Dictionary of Geography as an original and dominant ethnic group. A quite different, limited legal application of the term in the US state of Missouri also makes no sense here.

- Yvonne Fix, Musk

Letters to the editor are always welcome. Keep them shortish and to the point. Email news@tlnews.com.au Any addressed Dear Sir will be deleted.

What’s on in regional Victoria It’s been a tough start to the year for many of us, especially in regional Victoria. So, what can we do to help? It’s simple. Go on a regional road trip to visit your favourite town. Dine at a mouth-watering restaurant, explore some breath-taking art or plan the ultimate festival weekend.

Collectively, we can get regional Victoria back on its feet.

Because a short stay goes a long way.

Plan your next trip at visitvictoria.com/whatson

14 March

Spend a day in the sun with your best crew sampling over 100 beers and ciders and eating until your heart is content.

Bendigo, Goldfields

28 March

Water rights I recall addressing a council agenda meeting (21/9/2010) regarding the water extraction at Bullarto: Wombat Dam - Potable Water Supply Catchment & responsible role of Council in effective Duty of Care on behalf of the Daylesford-Hepburn community.

The planning permit for water extraction was referred to VCAT and involved Goulburn Murray Water and a landowner. Central Highlands Water was not called to comment. In hindsight, the plea was ineffective because real control was in the hands of Central Highlands Water as the lead authority in this matter since the Wombat Dam nearby is a potable water supply for the community.

Dunkeld Polo Cup Bring a picnic, family and friends, and enjoy amazing horsemanship and entertainment with the beautiful Grampians backdrop.

- Claude Forell (secretary, Glenlyon Progress Association)

Water and sustainability issues are fundamental and should not be sold off to a good bidder who thinks our water is more profitable than selling carrots.

Bendigo Craft Beer and Cider Festival

Dunkeld, Grampians

3-5 April

Wall to Wall Festival Wall to Wall has quickly established itself as Australia’s largest regional mural festival with works of over 70 world-class artists.

Benalla, High Country

Bullarto Tractor Pull 2020

Images: Anthony Sawrey

www.tlnews.com.au

News 11

Domestic visits records COVID-19 unlikely here

W

ITH the coronavirus or COVID-19 making itself felt throughout the world and in Australia, The Local's editor Donna Kelly asked Daylesford Macedon Tourism CEO Steve Wroe his take on the situation.

Donna: What is the impact locally from COVID-19?

Steve: We have had a "triple threat" really. First the fires, then corona/ COVID-19 and now we are facing what will inevitably be some macro-economic stress.

The fires probably benefitted much of our region, other than a quiet first 10 days or so of January. I think that we have seen a bit of a "substitution effect" as people changed their plans and came here, instead of fireaffected regions. I feel for those regions – my wife is from Bright and we were there during the fires and it was awful. Things will normalise now, as people return to the impacted areas.

Coronavirus or COVID-19 has yet to have an impact on our region as a whole, although there are some businesses, which are reliant on the overseas market, that are being impacted. International visitation accounts for less than 10 per cent of our visitation so we are less subject to the impact compared to Great Ocean Road and Phillip Island.

So we have actually seen record-breaking January and February visitation and demand in the Daylesford Macedon region, which is great.

Donna: Are people looking more to travel domestically? Will that help the region?

Steve: Yes, I think so. I used to work for Intrepid Travel which was almost 100 per cent outbound and when SARS hit, it was brutal. It is clearly shown historically that at times like these, people choose to stay at home and travel domestically. They still travel, which is great, they just don’t get on a plane if they can avoid it. Even Tourism Australia, whose job it is to get people to come here from overseas, has put some of its budget into domestic marketing – something I can’t remember seeing before.

We work closely with Visit Victoria to make sure that people (a) travel to regional Victoria and (b) choose us over other regions. We do this by providing them with as much product and information as we can. So yes, I think it’s reasonable to assume that in the short term at least, international travel will decline and domestic travel will rise. It’s my job to make sure we get as much of that local travel as possible.

So, again there’s a silver lining with all this bad news.

The Daylesford and Macedon Ranges region has, for the past 18 months, grown overnight visitation at least 20 per cent each quarter, putting it at the top of the table when it comes to regional tourism growth in Australia.

I expect this trend to continue, thanks to the effort of everyone in the tourism industry, with particular credit going to the fantastic product that our operators continue to develop, and the positive community attitudes towards tourism. Not all regions are this fortunate. This is a great place to be involved in the tourism industry.

Donna: Who will be eligible for the government’s tourism funding announced last week?

Steve: Much of the bushfire relief funding has gone, so far, to fire-affected regions, as it should. The government is assessing the impact of COVID-19 on regions which is a bit harder to do in a short timeframe as it’s still unfolding.

The government will have to throw more money around for COVID-19 though; it’s inevitable. While the tourism impact in our region has, to date, not been nearly as bad as other regions, indeed we have had a great start to the year, some tourismrelated businesses are reliant on inbound and would be eligible for support, I expect.

Other businesses, and I’m thinking of wineries for example, rely on exports as well as tourism. International trade is being crunched so while tourism might not have affected them too much, other parts of their business might be hurting and will make them eligible for other funding streams.

T

HE likelihood of the coronavirus, or COVID-19, making its way to a regional place like Daylesford is less than one per cent, Springs Medical Centre’s Dr Albert Ip said last Friday.

Dr Ip said coronavirus was the same virus as both Sudden Acute Respiratory Syndrome and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, which formed in 2001 and 2012 respectively.

SARS had about 8400 cases with a mortality rate of around 10 per cent while MERS had about 1008 cases but with a mortality rate of 39 per cent.

“We have now recorded the new COVID-19, as of 3am, with 98,421 cases worldwide with a death rate of about 3380 which is a mortality rate of 3.4 per cent right now,” Dr Ip told The Local.

“Australia currently, as of 6am today, (Friday, March 6), has 60 cases with two deaths, which roughly translates to the same mortality rate of the rest of the world right now.

“And Australia is doing its best with travel bans to block people from coming in and they are doing a reasonable job of that. If you think we have 60 cases with a population of 25 million that is a really small case number. And if you think about 90,000 worldwide that is a 0.03 per cent case load. So, you really don’t need to panic from that point of view.”

Dr Ip said the main symptoms were respiratory issues and fever although the latter may show up early or late so checking for fever was probably not a useful diagnostic tool, especially opposed to just seeing if people had “the sniffles, a sore throat, cough or difficulty breathing”.

“We urge people to follow Health Department guidelines and if they have an unexplained fever or symptoms or a viral infection and have been to China or any of those high risk places like Japan, South Korea or Singapore, they can phone us and we can have a conversation about whether they need to be examined, tested or stay in isolation.

“The majority of people will recover from this if they stay at home for those 14 days. And it doesn’t manifest as diarrhea so there is no need to hoard toilet paper.”

Dr Ip said those self-isolating should ask others to shop for them and wear a mask when groceries were dropped off at the door, along with keeping interaction to less than 15 minutes and transferring money electronically.

“As far as we know today, COVID-19 is spread by droplets so it doesn’t hang around in the air and is not airborne. So because it is droplet-spread, hand hygiene is important and if you cough, cough into your elbow and then clean that. If you are going to touch your face after touching surfaces or shaking hands, then wash them first.

“We don’t have an accurate timeframe (on how long surfaces remain infected) but it is going to be longer than the standard flu of four to six hours. That is why it has been so effectively and quickly transmitted.”

Dr Ip also said there was no need for general surface cleaning, as being carried out in South Korea, but those with symptoms needed to clean the surfaces they had touched.

His final point was to leave the wearing of masks to those with symptoms, especially when visiting a doctor. But call first to make an appointment.

Meanwhile, a Hepburn Shire Council spokesperson said it was taking the threat of a coronavirus pandemic very seriously.

"We have a Pandemic Influenza Plan in place, which is currently being reviewed in light of the current situation. The plan will be an essential document to guide actions to help support the community in responding to potential cases of coronavirus within our municipality.

"Council is in close communication with the Department of Health and Human Services as well as other stakeholders, to ensure that there will be a coordinated response should the need arise."

Macedon Ranges Shire Council did not respond to questions from The Local by press time.

Words: Donna Kelly

Movie stars at Hepburn House

I

T'S official. The Hepburn House calendar is being sold with all profits to support the Bendigo Bank and Salvation Army's bushfire recovery fundraising.

Residents have spent the past couple of months dressing up as famous movie stars and being photographed by The Local's Kyle Barnes and David White.

Among those taking part were: Alan Combey and Ruth Irving (Austin Powers), Brian Glew and cat Mr Bailey (The Godfather), Dorothy Nock (Seven Year Itch), Garth Pomeroy and Bev Job (The Shining), Irene Hannah (The Wizard of Oz), Joy Monssen (Cabaret), Kees De Meester and Jean Curwood (Titanic), Stan Peck (Risky Business), Suzanne McQuade (101 Dalmations), Valerie Clarke (Mary Poppins), and Vivienne Morkel and Brendan Dundas (Grease). Cover girl is Peggy Warren in the bath scene from American Beauty.

The 2020/2021 financial year calendars are $20 and available from Hepburn House, The Savoia Hotel in Hepburn Springs, The Daylesford Hotel, Daylesford Regional Visitor Information Centre, ChillOut Carnival and the Hepburn Springs General Store. More photos on the back page!

Springs Family Dental YOUR LOCAL DENTIST

Keeping the Families of Daylesford Smiling.

Facials · Oncology Massage · Lomi Lomi Hot Stone Massage Aromatherapy Relaxation Massage · Remedial Massage with Cupping Health fund rebates available.

If you work or live in the Hepburn Shire discounts may apply.

BOOK NOW: text Fiona Harris 0417 371 587 or request a booking on Facebook

aromatichealing.com.au

SUE’S PLACE

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

OPEN Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm

When someone lets you down, big or small, feel the disappointment, the hurt, the pain and breathe.

Things will become clear.

The gifts will eventually emerge.

Know that everything works out perfectly.

Children’s Dentistry | Smile Makeovers Dental Implants Crowns & Veneers Teeth Whitening | Emergency Dental Appointments Happy Gas Available 16 Albert Street, Daylesford | P 03 5348 2939 | F 03 5348 3203 E info@springsfamilydental.com.au

www.springsfamilydental.com.au

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

FLU CLINIC AVAILABILITY

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH ARE ADVISING FLU VACCINES WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM LATE APRIL - EARLY MAY

We’re here for you

Continuity of care for you and your family •

For the latest information regarding our Flu Clinics,follow us on Facebook, visit our website, or join our e-news mailing list.

BOOK ONLINE WITH

•

Rapid Bulk Bill and Standard Bulk Billing available.

Speak with your GP to see if you qualify.

www.springsmedical.com.au In an emergency always call 000

Daylesford

Kyneton

Trentham

10 Hospital St

89B Piper Street

22 Victoria St

tel: (03) 5348 2227

tel: (03) 5422 1298

tel: (03) 5424 1602

Follow us

https://www.facebook.com/springsmedical

WOMENS HEALTH • PAEDIATRICS • MENS HEALTH • MENTAL HEALTH • CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT CARING FOR OUR ELDERLY COMMUNITY

BOOK ONLINE WITH

www.springsmedical.com.au In an emergency always call 000

89B Piper Street Kyneton VIC 3444 | tel: (03) 5422 1298

RARE OPPORTUNITY FOR RESIDENTIAL AGED CARE LIVING Immediate accommodation

NOW AVAILABLE at

CRESWICK NURSING HOME Don’t miss this rare opportunity to secure a beautiful room when the current refurbishments are completed.

• • •

Permanent or Respite care available 24 Hour nursing Accredited with the Aged Care Quality & Safety Commission

For enquiries contact: Gabrielle Kirby, Waitlist Manager 03 5321 6595 or email: agedcare@hhs.vic.gov.au

$0

UPFRONT FEES FOR SHARED ROOMS

New wildlife hospital

EXCLUSIVE!

A

24-HOUR regional wildlife hospital will be built by Hepburn Wildlife Shelter as part of a $500,000 expansion.

This project has been kicked off by a generous donation of $100,000 from two Hepburn Springs residents with a further $100,000 to be raised during the year along with $300,000 in anticipated grants. The new wildlife hospital is to be completed during the 2020-2021 Summer.

The Hepburn Wildlife Shelter was created in 2005 by founders Gayle Chappell and Jon Rowdon from their home just outside Daylesford. It is a 24-hour, selffunded, volunteer wildlife rescue and treatment centre. For 15 years the shelter - an incorporated non-profit association and charity - has assisted and cared for injured, orphaned, sick and distressed wildlife in and around the Wombat State Forest and Central Victoria region.

It operates in an expansive forested region teeming with wildlife that has experienced an increased permanent human population and tourist boom. Unlike the eastern side of Melbourne with access to the wonderful facilities at Healesville Sanctuary, the region has no dedicated wildlife treatment centre or facility that can cater for wildlife disasters or provide professional training for wildlife carers.

Over the decades, Gayle and Jon have not only acquired extraordinary skills themselves in handling and treating virtually every kind of native animal, bird and reptile (from microbats to large adult kangaroos and koalas) they have also helped hundreds of others gain skills in the rescue and care of wildlife.

The new hospital project will build on and significantly expand their work by establishing better facilities for wildlife care in the Central Victoria region and for Western Victoria by creating a triage and rehabilitation centre, particularly for open wounds and nerve injuries (mostly kangaroos), adult injured wombats, and a burns centre for treating wildlife caught up in any regional bushfires.

It will include on-site facilities that will allow the assessment and response to injuries immediately and with greater effectiveness. The hospital will also act as a wildlife ambulance base and a 24-hour depot for injured wildlife.

It is also destined to become a research and teaching centre and provide specialist care and rehabilitation on a regional basis where vets, vet nurses and volunteer wildlife carers could gain essential hands-on experience. The hospital will have dedicated facilities and well-trained people to perform necropsies, blood sampling and faecal floats.

And while the new wildlife hospital does not replace the need for wildlife shelters, it will provide an added resource for them and the wildlife that they care for.

It will also nurture and expand the wildlife rescue community that already exists and provide more volunteer and community involvement opportunities.

The 24-hour aspect also means that wildlife rescuers can immediately take injured animals for treatment, rather than sit by the side of the road with the animal in their car, making multiple calls to shelters to find a placement for them, reducing stress for both the animal and the rescuer.

Donations are tax deductible.

Details: www.hepburnwildlifeshelter.org, info@hepburnwildlifeshelter.org, Facebook: hepburnwildlifeshelter or phone 0409 380 327 or 0478 635 814.

Above, Hepburn Wildlife Shelter assistant manager Sarah Dalby with a recuperating koala Words: As told to Donna Kelly | Image: Kyle Barnes

It’s been a tough start to the year for many of us and the show of support from the community has been incredible. Many parts of the state have been unaffected by bushfires and are welcoming visitors - and we stand with affected communities as they recover.

So, what can we do to help? It’s simple. Go on a road trip, stay a while.

Enjoy a warm afternoon at a winery or a night glamping under the stars and buy local. Collectively, we can get regional Victoria back on its feet.

Because a short stay goes a long way.

Plan your next trip at visitvictoria.com

#visitvictoria

PHILLIP ISLAND GLAMPING

16 Our women

www.tlnews.com.au

Celebrating International Women's Day

T

HE trailblazing achievements of local women were highlighted at Romsey Library and on Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s social media channels in honour of International Women’s Day on Sunday, March 8.

Historical societies in Kyneton, Romsey and Lancefield helped to identify the local women featured in the library display and on social media.

Among those featured are the women who played in the one-off 1946 women’s football match between the Kyneton Shop and the Lincoln Knitting Mills teams.

One of the women, 90-year-old Pat Plowman, pictured right, said they felt like "pioneers".

The football match was a fundraiser to support soldiers returning from World War II and to fund Kyneton Football Club’s re-entry to the Castlemaine District Football League.

International Women's Day is a global day celebrating the achievements of women and promoting gender equality. The 2020 campaign theme is #EachforEqual.

Macedon Ranges Shire Council Mayor Janet Pearce welcomed the opportunity to celebrate the achievements of local women.

"We are each responsible for our own thoughts and actions. Like Pat, we can actively choose to challenge stereotypes, fight bias and broaden perceptions.

"Think about the women you know and celebrate their contributions to our economy, our environment, our community and our history," Cr Pearce said.

Head to Romsey Library until March 14 to learn about Edith Onians and Eleanor Moore, two women from Lancefield who advocated for social reform from the 1890s to the 1950s.

Meanwhile, Hepburn Shire Council held its International Women's Day civic function at Clunes with the inductees to the Heather Mutimer Honour Roll for 2020 Arlene Geoffrey, Dallas Kinnear, Loretta Little and Sarah Glenny (posthumous).

Read about their achievements in the next edition of The Local.

Celebrating the season, our environment, slow living & community.

CRESWICK

AGENT OF THE YEAR Nik Bradley Sales Executive

Biggin & Scott Daylesford & Creswick | 32 Albert Street, Creswick | 5345 1073

CONGRATULATIONS

AGENCY OF THE YEAR

House.Land.Home.

DAYLESFORD & CRESWICK

HEPBURN SPRINGS VILLA 3/1-7 CRIPPA CLOSE

JUST LISTED

VERSATILE LUXURY HOTEL VILLA WITH 7% RETURN This 2 bedroom dual occupancy villa is set within the beautiful grounds of Peppers Mineral Springs Hotel in the heart of Hepburn Springs. Exclusively leased back to the hotel and showing 7% return with depreciation benefits, this architect designed and quality built villa has been designed for both form and function with contemporary detailing and luxury furnishings. The villa offers versatile and spacious self-contained luxury accommodation within the hotel environment and its magnificent facilities.

• With a common entry foyer, the dual key property is built over 2 levels and can be configured as a 2 bedroom self contained villa or as a private 1 bedroom suite and 1 bedroom apartment

a2 b1 c1 FOR SALE PRICE $615,000 CONTACT Rae Corris 0408 358 772 OFFICE 43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328 DAYLESFORD 29 RAGLAN STREET

JUST LISTED

EXECUTIVE RESIDENCE Located on a corner allotment and close to the famous Cliffy’s Café, schools, the Botanical Gardens and a short stroll to the Daylesford town centre. Sitting on approx. 1320 m2 block this home was built for entertaining. The floorplan boasts generous bedroom sizes, separate lounge, open plan and well-appointed fully equipped kitchen with adjacent dining/family leading to a magnificent outdoor entertaining area. The kitchen, bathroom and laundry have been recently renovated with quality fittings throughout. The lock-up garage has a drive through roller door and space for 6 vehicles.The north-facing outdoor entertaining area is a sheltered courtyard ready for your pizza oven or open fire pit. The front garden is ready for you customise to your style.

a3 b2 c6 FOR SALE PRICE $795,000 CONTACT Michael DeVincentis 0417 142 152 OFFICE 43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328 ID and contact details are required at all open for inspections

bigginscott.com.au

DAYLESFORD & CRESWICK

DAYLESFORD 32 VINCENT ST NORTH

JUST LISTED

RENOVATE OR DEVELOP THIS FANTASTIC PROPERTY ON 1360M2 Situated in an ideal location in highly sought after Vincent St Nth and just 650 metres to the centre of thriving Daylesford, is this 3 bedroom home on a massive block of 1360m2(approx) with huge potential. Whether you choose to renovate the existing home or take advantage of demand and develop the site, you won't find a better opportunity at this price tag today.

• Huge development potential on 1360m2(approx) • 650m to Daylesford shopping precinct.

• First time offered for sale in over 60 years.

a3 b1 c1 FOR SALE PRICE $553,000 CONTACT Nik Bradley 0448 407 387 Rae Corris 0408 358 772 OFFICE 43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328 DAYLESFORD 9 DUKE STREET

AUCTION

ONE BLOCK FROM VINCENT STREET An elevated family home with exceptional views, set on approx. 712m2 of land, just a stone’s throw from the main street of Daylesford. This 3bedroom home features an open plan living/meals/kitchen area with a separate formal lounge with long views. The kitchen has a large 5 burner gas stove, walk in pantry and dishwasher. The dining space opens to a wonderful undercover entertaining area that leads to an enchanting mature garden. The laundry acts as a mud room with a second toilet for easy access when gardening. The bathroom is neat and displays period features. A perfect Daylesford weekender, ideal permanent home or investment property in the perfect location for the weekend holiday let market.

a3 b1 c3 AUCTION Saturday 21st March at 12:00pm CONTACT Tom Shaw 0438 118 903 Michael DeVincentis 0417 142 152 OFFICE 43 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2328 ID and contact details are required at all open for inspections

bigginscott.com.au

House.Land.Home.

Design with Indre Kisonas

Playing around

Organic recycling in a tight spot

Stepping away from home to explore somebody else’s backyard lets you find many new things.

Believe it or not, Autumn is upon us. Well, according to the calendar even if the lingering Summer-like weather says not, the season of brightly coloured Last week I took my young grandson camping along the once-great Murray River. foliage and drooping boughs of fruit has commenced. At least the rapidly Back to nature and sleeping on the ground. Listening to bird song and swimming in colouring crimson glory vine draped over my balcony seems convinced. the river. No television or downloaded programs. Idyllic, isn't it?

I still think it is, but the novelty soon wore off for the three-year-old. The bird song was a cacophony from hundreds of corellas. Gentler in tone to the sulphur crested cockatoo but en masse morning to night, I was glad to get away.

Kangaroos shared our space, as did a resident echidna. Hiding from the 24/7 rifle shooter I am guessing, somewhere in the bush behind us. Ahhh, the serenity.

At home I wake to my “Kookabells”, the family of five kookaburras that roost on the branch together in the backyard. They let me know when to wake and sleep. It is my daily joy.

There was no joy in listening to the whingey three-year-old who wasn't sleeping well, got bored with swimming in the cold river and making sandcastles. No more walking along logs. He wanted to have his downloaded programs.

Thank goodness a drive through Barooga led us to a playground. Kudos to this council for putting in a playground that accommodated both small and larger kids.

Individual sunken trampolines are a novelty. The flying fox is fun, and yes, kids can fall off. The slides are high, with climbing ropes expansive. The water area was brilliant. Embedded rocks were climbed to access gates for redirecting water flow from a hand water pump. This could be clambered on dry or with water.

A button with a timer put water on the slide and water jets. Brilliant for summer days in a hot town. Even more brilliant if our local shires had the bravery to construct a nature playground. A place where rocks and logs can be used to climb on. Water to run through and direct. Captured rain water of course.

If anybody has been into Royal Park in Melbourne, near the Royal Children’s Hospital, there is a nature playground there that is worth the experience. The playground uses logs, ropes, rocks and water for a natural experience. There are still slides and swings but no plastic. There are sticks to build a hideout with plus sand to dig in. Kids and adults can get dirty, fall off, practise their balance and imaginary skills, even get a splinter .

It is almost like being in the bush camping by a river. Almost.

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

Autumn is also composting season - a time to take advantage of the piles of fallen leaves to add to the fruit and vegie scraps to reinvigorate your compost bin and worm farm, perhaps even, to get one started.

Maybe you don’t have the garden space to set up a full-scale worm farm or compost bin. Well fear not, you can at least rake your bounty of fallen leaves into a sheltered corner to rot down into a perfect mulch, keeping them in place with wire netting, or re-purpose the fruit tree nets once the fruit is harvested.

Besides, with the Autumn rains bringing the grass back to life, you can spread the lawn clippings over the heap. As well as helping to keep the leaves from blowing about, they will dry out and add to the bounty.

Apart from investing in one of the small tumbling composters or, Japanese bokashi bins, there are other ways to produce perfect compost in the smallest of gardens. One method is to bury compost material in spade-depth holes around the garden, covering the material deeply enough to prevent pets digging it up again.

Use any spare space in your vegetable plots to dig narrow spade-depth trenches, perhaps even between the rows of crops, which you can systematically fill with compost, covering over each batch as you go. It’s amazing how rapidly these techniques will attract hosts of worms, aerating and fertilising the soil.

Worm towers

I have never got around to actually owning a worm farm, but acknowledge what great benefit these dedicated little fertiliser factories bring to the garden. The traditional worm farm is usually a large wooden, or plastic, box containing several internal layers for their bedding and fodder and a bottom moisture-proof tray to capture their almost limitless supply of nutrient-rich castings (poop), which most worm farmers call black gold.

The need for regular maintenance and the size of the farm can sometimes deter would-be farmers but just by chance, my son-in-law Evan turned up with a gift he had made for me, my first worm tower.

Worm towers were originally made of terracotta pipe but latterly PVC drain piping simplifies the operation and maintenance in that they consist of an upright pipe, 150mm or more and 40cm or more, long, a threaded collar and threaded screw cap to keep the weather and predators out.

Drill a series of 15-16mm holes around the bottom third of the pipe to enable dispersal of liquids, the nutrients, into the surrounding soil as well as providing access to and from the tower for the worms. Then just bury the tower leaving it 20-30 centimetres above soil in a productive bed of the garden.

Place a layer of straw or shredded paper at the bottom for bedding then add alternate layers of shredded paper and food scraps until the tower is at least half full.

Water it down before adding the worms then cover them with more shredded paper and top up with more scraps. Water lightly and lightly screw on the cap. Keep the tower moist but not wet at all times to avoid drowning the worms. Ordinary garden worms are simply not as productive so populate with red wrigglers, available online.

Maintenance, apart from continual addition of food waste, is minimal except for a six-monthly empty and rebuild. Don’t be concerned about overpopulation, they will self-regulate and they at least can migrate if they’re overcrowded.

Feeding the workforce is simple, they are practically vegan and eat almost everything plus a few things not on our diets: cardboard, paper, grass clippings, crushed eggshells, coffee grounds and teabags (but not the staple).

Things you shouldn’t give them are meat, dairy or anything greasy. They find things like rice, bread, pancakes and potatoes difficult to digest so keep them minimal. With the exception of citrus, worms devour such fruits and vegetables as watermelon, bananas, pumpkin, carrots, grapes, tomatoes, corn, cabbage and egg cartons. They’re hungry little blighters, eating more than half their weight every 24 hours. Just think of the nourishment they can return to your garden, working for peanuts...no wait...they’re not on the diet chart!

Pet legislation concerns Few days on market

T

HE Real Estate Institute of Victoria believes that the introduction of pet legislation will result in widespread confusion, long delays at VCAT and an increase in surrendered and abandoned animals.

CEO Gil King said under the new provisions about to be enacted in the Residential Tenancies Act, a landlord will not be able to unreasonably refuse consent for a tenant to keep a pet on the premises.

"There will be a requirement that if a tenant seeks to have a pet, and the landlord does not want a pet there, the landlord will have to make an application to VCAT within 14 days. In the absence of an application, the landlord is deemed to have provided consent," Mr King said.

"This is not a simple issue of a small fluffy dog or a cat. A pet is defined as any animal. Most local councils allow two dogs and two cats without restriction as well as a myriad other animals including mice, poultry, birds, ferrets and the list goes on. In some cases, within the metropolitan area, 60 animals and more are allowed without restriction.

"REIV has confirmed that VCAT will, as part of its deliberations as to reasonableness, consider the relevant local government's 'as of right' animal allowance.

"What seems to be an unintended consequence is that now an owner must apply to the landlord for permission on a prescribed form for every animal that is intended to be kept on a leased property."

Mr King said the REIV had also expressed concern that a rush to have pets in rented premises will overload VCAT with objection applications by landlords and will ultimately result in a spike in the number of pets surrendered or abandoned a few months later.

"A pet is for life, not just for the period of a tenancy. There is no guarantee that if a renter moves address, they will be allowed to have the pet at the new property."

The REIV is calling on the state government to delay the already announced introduction of the new provisions until these issues are resolved.

R

EIV president Leah Calnan says Victorian homes continue to take very little time to sell.

Days on market figures refer to private sales only and demonstrate how long homes are taking to be sold.

Days on market stats remain stable in regional Victoria with a house taking 55 days to sell during January, the same as in December 2019.

Brown Hill and Winter Valley in Ballarat have the shortest waiting period across regional Victoria, with the average property taking just 22 days to sell. Daylesford is close behind on 25 days.

The regional Victorian suburb with the greatest drop since January 2019 was Cohuna on the Murray River, with a home now taking 98 days to sell down from 228 last year.

REIV President Leah Calnan said having homes sell fast is a true sign of a strong market.

“Buyers have a big appetite for homes in Victoria, and strong competition for homes is causing shorter sales times,” Ms Calnan said.

“The Melbourne real estate sector is in great shape, and eager buyers can’t wait to get into a new home. Demand is high, local agents are being flooded with enquiries as soon as they list a new home for sale.

“Now is a great time to sell your property, with strong demand making the selling process quicker. Record low interest rates and easier lending conditions are allowing more buyers to get into real estate.”

Link: www.reiv.com.au/choose-a-member

House.Land.Home.

The Shelter Shed Come and stay at ours while you look for yours!

Pet-friendly, self-contained accommodation in the heart of Glenlyon.

Just $140 per night, two-night minimum.

Call Kyle on 0416 104 283 or email kyle@tlnews.com.au

Woof!

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

House.Land.Home.

Easter and the school holidays are just over the hill.

Need advertising? charl@tlnews.com.au

House.Land.Home. Premium

is published by The Local Publishing Group.

The next edition is due out on Monday, April 6, in time for Easter.

Advertising: Kyle Barnes on 0416 104 283 or email kyle@tlnews.com.au Editorial: Donna Kelly on 0418 576 513 or email donna@tlnews.com.au

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

www.tlnews.com.au

News 25

New application for development at Smith Street

A

FRESH application involving fewer houses and more open space will be launched for the controversial development in Smith Street, Daylesford.

This follows the uproar over this and other vexed matters at last month’s chaotic, crowded Hepburn Shire Council meeting in the Daylesford Town Hall.

What happened was a motion to approve 53 houses on 488 hectares was voted down but there was no vote on opposing the development so the permit application lapsed.

Critical to the rejection of the plan was the likely traffic congestion in Smith Street near the corner of Hospital Street, adjacent to St Michael’s Primary School and near Daylesford College. A solution to this seems possible with a new road leading from the development to the Midland Highway.

“We do have an agreement with those landholders,” says developer Joseph van Dyk of this new road.

“Our preference is to work collaboratively with the council and we are planning another community information session.”

All this activity might be some time off, but he added that the development would have more open space, the historic cottage, Middleton House of Howe Farm saved as well as most trees. “There will be linear open space.”

According to Mr van Dyk he enjoyed seeing the community so passionate about the town. “We need to have the community involved.”

Such a sense of enjoyment does not, however, extend to council staff. The staff withdrew from voluntarily having a float in the ChillOut parade because of a feared hostile reception, Cr Kate Redwood said. "There has been some unfortunate behaviour."

She described some of the uproar at the council meeting as “planned and orchestrated”.

Cr Redwood is pleased that her changes to the notorious Local Law No. 2 were approved, meaning there will be working parties to help with regulations covering tip scavenging, firewood collecting and nature strip planting.

After two terms as a councillor, and one on the Melbourne City Council, she will finish up this year, having taken the post of deputy chair of the new Central Highlands Rural Health, which amalgamates Hepburn and Kyneton to cover this district, as well as Macedon Ranges.

“Most of what I wanted to do has been done,” she said. “I want to hand over to those with new ideas and I hope young people come forward.”

Dissatisfaction with the council, especially over a $3 million cost blowout on the Rex building, bringing the cost to almost $13 million, means that Cr Redwood’s replacement is unlikely to be the only fresh candidate.

Meanwhile, Cr Redwood is particularly happy that a new planning scheme has been adopted to replace the 20-year-old version.

A flaw in the present scheme, according to one concerned resident, Debora Semple, is that planners are allowed to generally comply with requirements instead of having to be specific.

This, says the resident of 15 years, is part of the threat to the rural nature of Daylesford, an issue which was central to much of the protests at the town hall.

Examples of dull urban sprawl abound in Kyneton, Woodend, Ballan and Ballarat, so, as she says, the question is whether it can be stopped in Daylesford.

Words: Kevin Childs

Images with a Silver lining

B

Donna: What equipment do you work with?

RONWYN Silver has lived in the old Walmer School for 30 years and Bronwyn: I use a Canon 6D with 24-80, 80-200 and 100mm macro lenses. I also before that used the historic brick building as a holiday home for sometime use a Olympus Compact LX100.

10 years while living in inner Melbourne and working as a teacher.

Walmer is about 10 minutes north east of Castlemaine and Bronwyn knows Donna: Can anyone be a photographer? the nature reserve which surrounds her property inside out after walking and Bronwyn: The ease of taking photos these days means it is hard to make photos taking photos there for all these years. She chatted with Donna Kelly.

Donna: When and why did you get interested in photography?

Bronwyn: I was keen on photography in my 30s and even though self-taught, offered classes in the 1980s at the community school I was teaching in. I also became fascinated with printing colour and black and white photos in several darkrooms that I set up. At first I took photos of a variety of subjects but gradually focused on nature.

A course at TAFE in 2008 helped me with my digital photography and Photoshop.

Donna: What does photography mean to you?

Bronwyn: For the past 15 years or so my interest in nature photography has been bound up with my involvement with Friends of the Box-Ironbark Forests (Mount Alexander region). I have organised 10 local nature exhibitions with contributions from Friends members and supporters.

FOBIF has also produced books on moss, eucalypts and wattles, and we are now working on one about native peas. Each book takes at least two years to put together.

Forays into the local bush to find and photograph relevant species has been a big part of my life. I like the challenge of taking photos of difficult subjects such as tiny moss capsules or unremarkable shrubs.

My interest in nature photography has led me to map lichens which are fascinating in themselves as well as having wonderful aesthetic qualities. I have had a couple of exhibitions based on map lichens. Now landscape photography has taken my interest.

Donna: What do you hope your work means to others?

Bronwyn: I see nature photography in exhibitions, websites and books as a way of drawing people’s attention to the beauty of our bushlands and developing their desire to protect the bush.

stand out from the millions that appear on Instagram and other sites. Still, having a good eye, giving attention to composition and approaching subjects in creative ways can lift photos from being mere snapshots to photos of wide appeal and beauty.

Anyone can take the odd terrific photo almost accidentally but to do so consistently requires talent and dedication.

Donna: Where can we see your work?

Bronwyn: My work can be viewed in Photographers of the Goldfields, a group exhibition at the Newstead Arts Hub, 12A Tivey Street. The other photographers are Geoff Park, Janet Barker, Patrick Kavanagh and Frances Cincotta.

This exhibition is part of Newstead Open Studios Art Trail and the Castlemaine Open Studios 2020. It opened on Saturday, March 7 and includes every weekend until the end of March. It's also open Labour Day, Monday, March 9. Hours are 10am to 4 pm.

Above, sunrise at Cairn Curran 2019, inset Bronwyn Silver Images: Bronwyn Silver

Dining & Wining

www.tlnews.com.au

28 Gigs & Meal Deals

Meal deals!

Monday:

The Argus Dining Room, Peppers Mineral Springs, Hepburn - Feed me - & a glass of beer or wine - $45pp

Tuesday:

Pig & Whistle, Trentham East - entrees from $8, mains from $20, all desserts $8

Wednesday:

Bellinzona Resort, Hepburn - two/three courses & a glass of wine - $40/$50 Cosmopolitan Hotel, Trentham - $18 classics mains, $9 kids' meals

Thursday:

Daylesford Hotel, Daylesford – Steak Night - $25

Friday & Saturday night

The Plough, Trentham - dinner - three courses and two drinks - $55.

Sunday:

Daylesford Hotel, Daylesford - Roast, a pot or glass of wine or soft drink - $25

Every day:

Steakhouse, Daylesford - Kids under 12 eat free with any main meal. New $25 express lunch menu, with loads to choose from, 7 days a week.

Community lunch

Every Friday at Victoria Park, Daylesford. All welcome.

Raffles:

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

THE COSMO, YOUR LOCAL WEDNESDAY - LOCALS NIGHT $18 Cosmo Classics Mains, $9 kids meals

ThursDAY - Wood Fired Pizza SPecial buy 2 and the 2nd is half price (dine in & takeaway)

FriDAY - Happy hour 5 – 7pm $4 Carlton Draught pots / $1.50 off all other drinks Complimentary bar snacks Meat tray raffle - proceeds to community organisations

Saturday & Sunday Complimentary wine tastings in the Cellar & Store Sample our region’s finest

Do you feed and water people?

Advertise here.

www.tlnews.com.au

Dining 29

Passing Clouds: Book ahead, skip breakfast

T

WO pieces of advice if you plan lunch at Passing Clouds Winery at Musk near Daylesford.

One: book ahead. The place is popular, routinely fully booked, including with many return diners. Impromptu arrival can lead to disappointment.

The second advice, from wife Sally, a Passing Clouds veteran and fan of the Feed Me set menu ($60 per person) with matched wines ($35 each) we tried recently, is skip breakfast to leave room for lunch.

We’ve enjoyed it before. Our enjoyment was enhanced this time via chatting with head chef Cameron McKenzie while he tended the kitchen’s charcoal fire, dubbed “Prometheus” after the Greek god who stole fire from Mount Olympus and gave it to the human race.

The fire over which he roasts local meats - chicken and beef this time - uses 10kg of Indonesian swamp log charcoal per day (no rainforest timber, thanks) to get smokeless heat.

Cameron creates deceptively difficult simplicity - perfectly roasted meats, served with “vegetables as the hero” and side dishes such as Turkish mother-in-law’s potato salad made with Dutch cream spuds, onion, salt and lemon juice.

He laughs when I joke: “Happy mother-in-law, happy wife” while his wife, dining room manager Murvet, buzzed cheerfully and expertly, making arriving diners comfortable.

Cameron pointed out details we might normally miss. Vegetable and fruit segments arrive cut to identical sizes. The bed of warmed salad with capsicum and hazelnut romesco and carrot, cardamom and ginger parsley verde on which the tender chicken arrives has a medley of tastes, textures, colours and shapes which perfectly enhance.

It looks pretty, arriving in a photogenic procession of different “Feed Me” dishes which started with bresaola, a salumi and then a locally made Max and Delilah charcuterie with house-pickled vegetables and divinely smooth chicken liver pate and ended with pantone rhubarb anglais and panna cotta with strawberries and blackberries.

Making things look simple is an art. “When you make it look simple, everything has to look perfect, there is nowhere to hide,” he said.

Passing Clouds is primarily a winery, originally noted for Bendigo reds after setting up there before resettling at Musk with its reliable rainfall. But it also offers a carefullyblended union of food and wine. They still bring grapes in to make their famous reds but also grow cold-climate pinot and chardonnay grapes at Musk.

The Macedon Ranges region is Victoria’s coldest wine region and Musk is Macedon’s coolest wine area. But climate change and fertile volcanic soil creates a grape growing sweet spot.

We enhanced our lunch with my elegant 2018 Estate pinot noir ($47 a bottle at the cellar door) and Sally’s 2018 Estate chardonnay, (also $47) offering richness from its oak cellaring that contrasted with the later cellar door tasting of the $27 fresh, zippy unoaked 2019 chardonnay we enjoyed as part of the popular cellar door tasting.

Passing Clouds' cellar door is open seven days 10am-5pm and lunch is Thursday to Monday from noon.

An exclusive Sunday $160 per person package offers a tourist train option from Daylesford, with a glass of sparkling on arrival before a four-course set menu lunch with matched wines.

Words & images: Peter Young

FIVE DAY five day lunch LUNCH trTRADING ading THURSDAY Thursday TO Monday MONDAY to Commencing Thursday 7th November

Passing Clouds Winery PASSING CLOUDS WINERY

CellarCellar DoorDoor 7 days 10am-5pm 7 days 10am-5pm Dining Thursday - Monday forLunch Lunch Dining Thursday - Monday for passingclouds.com.au | (03) 5348 5550 passingclouds.com.au | (03) 5348 5550 For Dining Room reservations: For Dining Room reservations: @ feast passingclouds.com.au feast@passingclouds.com.au

Trivia with a Twist Thursday April 23 6:00pm $40 Per person 2 course dinner bookings essential

5348 2130 ood F t a e Gr G r e at r e phe At m o s

put your dancing shoes on....

Live Music Friday April 24 8:00pm start

Baby 700

- classic pub rock songs - covers - songs everyone would know - No cover charge

D AY L E S F O R D B O W L I N G C L U B BISTRO

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

www.tlnews.com.au

Dining 31

Blackwood concert

T

HE Whitetop Mountaineers from America will perform at the Blackwood Hall on Sunday, April 5 with support from Kenny Joe Blake and finishing with an old-time jam and fundraiser barbeque for Blackwood's Community Emergency Response Team.

Martha Spencer and Jackson Cunningham are The Whitetop Mountaineers and on their previous five visits the duo delighted audiences across the country with their performance of American mountain song and dance, old school country music, bluegrass and beyond. Both are skilled multi-instrumentalists, Jackson on guitar, mandolin and claw hammer banjo, and Martha on fiddle, guitar and banjo.

Kenny Joe Blake was a wanderer long before he fell into the life of the singer / songwriter. Learning to play the harmonica as the result of a bet at 17, Kenny Joe started playing guitar in 1975. During the early 90s he began playing and writing in the roots country scene where he teamed up with the late A. P. Johnson.

Doors open at 2pm with tickets at www.eventbrite.com/e/the-whitetopmountaineers-at-blackwood-halltickets-90566676367

Daylesford

Pig and Whistle Iconic pub in the paddock

Family dining room and bistro Bar with pool table and big screen TV Guinness on tap Local wine list Warm fires Every Tuesday is Locals' night – meals from $20 705 James Lane, Trentham East 5424 1213 pigandwhistletrentham@gmail.com Don’t forget St Patrick’s Day March 15!

Meal opening hours Monday - Friday: 5pm-8pm Saturday & Sunday: noon-3pm & 5pm-8pm

www.mineralspringshotel.com.au Bookings Essential: 03 5348 2202 124 Main Rd Hepburn Springs

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

Open every day until late.

55 Vincent Street, Daylesford.

5348 3577

Locals Night at The Argus Every Monday $45 per person “feed me”.

Local seasonal food prepared by our chefs in a shared banquet style for two or more.

Includes a glass of local house wine or beer.

32 Markets

www.tlnews.com.au

To market, to market, to buy some Easter gifts

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 Malmsbury Village Farmers Market - third Sunday Trentham Station Sunday Market - fourth Sunday Buninyong Village Market - fourth Sunday

TRENTHAM PETROL & .....................................

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

..................................................

1 Market Street ~ ph: 5424 1611

Monday–Sunday 8aM~6pM

Meet Costa!

www.tlnews.com.au

Quilting donation

A

T THE yearly showing of their children’s quilts to the residents of Lumeah Lodge, before being delivered to CAFS in Ballarat for foster children, the Spa Quilters Guild of Daylesford was asked if it could donate a quilt to be raffled to raise money to purchase wanted items for the residents of the facility.

Out & About 33

Happy Holidays

T

HE Happy Holidays Exhibition at the Daylesford Museum over summer has attracted a lot of interest from visitors and locals.

The exhibition showcased the attraction of Daylesford and Hepburn for thousands of visitors from the 1930s to the 1960s, especially in the years prior to mass car ownership. The display of posters and souvenirs set the happy tone for The answer was a resounding yes and last week the quilt was presented to Lumeah visitors reminiscing about holidaying in the district.

Many visitors have been keen to see photos of old guesthouses where they stayed Lodge. The quilt top was made by Audrey Connolly, pictured below right, a founding and have browsed through the dossier of guesthouses compiled by Daylesford and member of the club, who was in Lumeah Lodge before passing away just after District Historical Society member Ian Bull. It includes details of ownership and Christmas last year. The quilting was done by Denise Longmire and the binding was photos of more than 300 guesthouses in the district including Holyrood House, finished by Janet Blain. The name of the quilt is Scrap Basket Lattice.

The Spa Quilters, who make and donate more than 40 children's quilts each year, The Grande, Wyuna, Mooltan, Rosemount, Tasma, Linga Longa, Collie, Camp Hill Cottages, Lucerne, Savoia and Ringarooma. also donated some lap quilts for the residents and intend to give more in the future.

The exhibition poster of Tasma This year they will hold their biennial Quilt Show on June 6 and 7 at the with the family on the verandah Daylesford Primary School’s gym, with members now working busily towards that inspired members of the Sutton goal. family to visit. Wilva Pelech and From left, Spa Quilter member Janet Blain, Lumeah Lodge resident Trudy Marlene Nahayna, pictured right, Huggett and Lumeah Lodge lifestyle coordinator Sharon Treloar were in the poster as young girls.

During their visit they also met up with their cousin Edith Clark and former Daylesford State School friend, Marj Green.

The next museum exhibition will be on the Queen’s Birthday weekend in June and run in conjunction with the Hand Tools Association of Victoria.

Issa Sculpture Show Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre Grounds

Daily 5th to 15th March 2020 Neighbourhood Centre Open Day 13th March 2020 13 Camp St, Daylesford

LEONARD'S HILL HALL 47TH ANNUAL BABY SHOW SATURDAY 28TH MARCH 2020 JUDGING STARTS AT 2PM ----- $10 ENTRY COVERS THE FOLLOWING (BIRTH – 5 YEARS) -----

L NA TIO S A UC ZE ED PRI

AGE SECTIONS SECTION 1: BIRTH – 9 MONTHS SECTION 2: 9 MONTHS – 18 MONTHS SECTION 3: 18 MONTHS – 3 YEARS SECTION 4: 3 YEARS – 5 YEARS

NOVELTY SECTIONS HAPPIEST BABY ROSIEST CHEEKS CURLIEST HAIR YOUNGEST CHAMPION BABY ----- $6 ADDITIONAL ENTRY ----PRINCE & PRINCESS (BIRTH - 2 YEARS MISS & MASTER TINY TOT (2 - 5 YEARS) ----- FREE ENTRY -----

Local Artist Issa Ouattara | Sculpture Garden at the Church, 810 Hepburn-Newstead Rd, Franklinford Cocreation & commissions welcome IssaSculpture@gmail.com | 0487 359 722

MOST POPULAR BABY FUNDRAISING COMPETITION VOTING CARDS @ ALBERT ST BUTCHER, DAYLESFORD $5 HALL ENTRY (ADULTS) – INCLUDES AFTERNOON TEA

DOT 03 5348 3351 OR ELSIE 03 5348 6568

34 Crossword

www.tlnews.com.au

W RD

CROSS

2/18/2020

services

The Local Crossword Issue 170 - Crossword Puzzle

The Local Crossword Issue 170 1

LAND CAPABILITY ASSESSMENT

services

SEPTIC SYSTEM INSPECTION & MAINTENANCE

SEPTIC SYSTEM INSPECTION & MAINTENANCE

PERIODIC INSPECTION AND REPORTING OF WASTEWATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS TROUBLESHOOTING AND MAINTENANCE SUPERVISION OF SLUDGE PUMP-OUT LATEST SLUDGE-JUDGE TECHNOLOGY

www.sanae-svcs.com.au

PO Box 1040, Daylesford, VIC 3460 koos.hulst@sanae-svcs.com.au (03) 5348 4852 or 0437 747 619

2

H R B A O A R O 4 P A R A D I S B I T A N E R G R 6 I H 9 S C A R E C L 13 H I 14 15 P O S Y C O A O C P I T N E 21 B U T T R O R H 23 24 Y R L A O 28 N B O U L T T S

SEPTIC SYSTEM INSPECTION & MAINTENANCE

3

E 5

7

H R O W I S N T E M P 16

N E W S T E A D

8

G A V E L A

10

J U N S T I I C 19 20 L U T H I E R A 22 E N M G 25 A S H B 27 H E R A I 29 P L E 12

Z E P R A I P O N C O N I 17 18 C O F F I N O R U M B A I G 26 L A K E L E R A T

WISH MOVING HOUSE WAS THIS EASY?

11

No matter if you are moving into the area for the first time, moving to the big smoke or just moving across town - we will take care of you and your prized possessions like its our own home we are moving. Locally owned and operated, Oz Trans are the leading local removalist and general transport specialists in the entire Daylesford and Central Highlands region for over 25 years.

• Home, piano and commercial removals • House packing services • Sensitive freight • All kinds of art cared for

Here's the solution for Edition 170.

How did you go?

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

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

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

https://crosswordhobbyist.com/749486

1/2

www.tlnews.com.au

Business 35

Business awards information sessions and business planning

N

OW that entries are open it’s time to think about putting your best foot forward. Hepburn Shire Council are offering free workshops in Daylesford and Creswick which will give you hints and tips on entering the Hepburn Shire Business Awards.

The workshops are being facilitated by Small Business Victoria facilitator and businesswoman Karen Foster, who has substantial experience with business awards both as a judge and an entrant.

Karen will discuss the award questions and give guidance about how your business may respond. By entering the awards you can increase your business recognition and receive acknowledgement for your hard work. Learn how to promote what makes your business stand out. You never know, you could be a finalist or even the Business of the Year.

The workshop will also include some business planning and will give you an opportunity to review or create a one-page business plan. Not only will this support your entry for the awards but will also look at future planning for your business.

Learn how to map out a plan that will show where your business is at right now and where you’d like to be in the future, and most importantly the next steps to get there.

Workshops: When: Wednesday, March 18 Where: Daylesford Senior Citizens, 76 Vincent Street, Daylesford Time: 6pm – 8pm Bookings: www.eventbrite.com.au/e/97906508001 When: Thursday, March 19 Where: Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve, Lindsay Park Drive, Creswick Time: 6pm – 8pm Bookings: www.eventbrite.com.au/e/97918762655 Link: www.hepburnshirebusinessawards.com

Collaboration

D

O YOU want to learn how your business can succeed through collaboration?

The Trio Agency is holding an interactive and thought-provoking workshop to help you uncover approaches for your business through partnerships and collaboration.

Collaboration is a powerful tool for all small business owners, regardless of the industry you are in or the type of business you have.

Collaboration can help businesses work and grow better by increasing capacity and impact, working with strengths and building business resilience.

The process of collaboration helps facilitate sustainable changes to improve your business.

This workshop is ideal for small or micro businesses seeking new opportunities for their business.

The workshop is from 10am to noon on Tuesday, March 31 at the Gisborne Administration Centre, 40 Robertson Street in Gisborne.

This is a great opportunity to network with other local businesses, make valuable contacts and explore ways to collaborate.

Places are limited to 20 people and tickets are $25.

For more information or to book, call 5421 9616 or visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/business-events

H

Insights AVE you stopped to think about the future and what it looks like for your business?

GST workshop

A

FREE workshop on record-keeping for GST-registered businesses will provide Business expert Simon Kuestenmacher will practical advice on how to record money share his insights on the customer and workforce of the coming in and out of your business. future at a business networking night in April.

Simon is a demographer, business advisor and researcher who backs up his opinions with data and evidence.

This event aims to help those in business better predict the changes ahead and be well prepared enough to take advantage of the opportunities.

There will be time for networking activities before and after Simon’s presentation and as this promises to be a memorable event that people will talk about, it is a good idea to book early.

The business networking evening will be held at the Gisborne Golf Club, 25 Daly Street, from 6pm to 9pm on Wednesday, April 29. Early bird tickets are $40 until 15 April. Bookings are essential.

Also on offer is the chance to win a two-hour mentoring session with Trio Agency, valued at $800.

The mentoring session will help the winner to review, plan and set the direction for their business.

The networking event is open to all those with a business interest, including entrepreneurs, home-based and micro-business operators and start-ups.

For more information or to book, call 5421 9616 or visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/business-events

Learn how to calculate and record GST and gain time-saving tips that will provide business owners with the space and time to focus on their business.

The workshop is facilitated by the Australian Taxation Office and will be held at the Gisborne Administration Centre, 40 Robertson Street, on Tuesday, March 17 from 10am to noon.

For more information or to book, call 5421 9616 or visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/business-events

36 Opinion

www.tlnews.com.au

Pick me, pick me!

Just sayin’...

By Donna Kelly

C

ORONAVIRUS. It's everywhere. Well, not everywhere but everyone is talking about it.

And I reckon I am more fatigued than most. I first read a little snippet in the paper in December. Some strange virus in some place in China I had never heard of. Not a big deal.

But, and this is the problem, we had a trip booked to Japan, yes out of Yokohama and the Diamond Princess's home for many long weeks, then off to China and then into Hong Kong. (Yes, the perfect storm...)

Our original concerns were about the riots in Hong Kong. But then again, how bad could be it? We could just stick to big hotels and then head to the airport. No biggie.

Then the CV, as I call it, started to become a little bigger and we wondered if we should cancel our trip. But then I said we could always do the Japan bit and get off the boat in Tokyo and fly out of Japan.

I never in my wildest dreams imagined being quarantined for two weeks on a ship. Our first cruise was from Melbourne to Sydney and it was dreadful. Imagine emptying out all the bogans you had ever met and putting them in front of an all-you-can-eat, all-you-candrink joint. Yes to mayhem and no to manners. But then we tried international cruising and it was a whole new world. People who wanted to look around the world, not just get pissed and full.

But while I like ships and even cabins, you would go stircrazy if you were trapped in one for two weeks. The cabins, even the ones with balconies, are only great when you can leave them in the morning and come back to them pleasantly tired at night. They are not designed to sit in 24/7 for two weeks. We canned the trip.

And up until now it seems like the CV has been bubbling away, a bit of an annoyance, but nothing too tragic, until the Great Toilet Paper rush of last week. What happened? The rest of the world gets ready to try and find a vaccine, or ways to shut down borders, and Australians just think of their backsides. Arseholes. Apparently there is a run on (bad pun) bidets in Toorak. We actually have a spare if anyone is in need. True story. You will probably see it overpriced on eBay. I don't know what the answer is, or what the future will be, but I guess for now we act like scouts and be prepared but not panicked. And we are doing out bit too. How so, I hear you ask.

Well, if you talk to an older person, say over 70ish, you will hear stories of newspapers and even telephone books being sliced and diced and hung on string in the loo during hard times. So, once you have read your copy of The Local, go for it. Just remember we are not responsible for any awkward paper cuts. Just sayin'...

'

Hey there, I am Lilly, a four-year-old American bulldog. I'm a sweetnatured girl who needs a calm home and an experienced owner to help me gain confidence, learn lead skills and polite behaviour. No cats or pocket pets please, but a calm, non-reactive doggie pal may help me in my new home. MC# 95600001111220166 BR100938 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

T

he 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 seven 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 not-forprofit 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)

& ity B iodivers

You Me

Lecture Series 2020

a Wombat Forestcare initiative

Resilience of the Wombat Forest to changes in climate Changes in climate are affecting forest ecosystems worldwide. Research shows that trees in the Wombat Forest are generally very resilient to seasonal changes in climate.

Join us to hear the latest.

Prof Stefan Arndt

School of Ecosystem and Forest Sciences The University of Melbourne

Saturday 21th March 1.30 - 3.30pm Trentham Neighbourhood Centre Cnr. Market & High Street Trentham Cost: Gold Coin donation For information contact: info@wombatforestcare.org.au

wombatforestcare.org.au

www.tlnews.com.au

Opinion 37

Kyle’s Rant

A

PPARENTLY, there has been a run on items in our supermarkets including toilet rolls and hand sanitiser.

I must admit this corona thing has had me on the back foot a bit. Here at TL HQ we have failed miserably to stock up on anything except for a couple of tins of baked beans and a two-year-old packet of two minute noodles I gleefully discovered the other day while trying to build my emergency stash.

So all you looters out there, when World War Z hits, you might as well give my joint a miss. All you’ll find is a couple of miserable old starving journos blowing bubbles in the corner, finishing off the dregs of whatever alcohol we have managed procure.

I have been gobsmacked at the rush on toilet paper. I mean what about food, it just doesn’t make sense. I saw scenes in Costco on the TV where blokes were wrestling with the guy with the pallet, the stuff hadn’t even been put on the shelves.

Another person told me of a shortage in kitty litter. WTF? How does that fit into an end of the world’s prepper kit? Maybe when you run out of bog-rolls you push Felix aside and park your arse in the tray, but that wouldn’t help with the clean-up.

Oh, hang on a minute..."Hey, Felix does shit stick to your fur?".

The world's gone mad. How is it that in one month we have gone from heart-felt pledges to the bushfire victims, survivors and animals to the scavenging, dunny roll hungry? Exceptionally clean citizens who would stab each other for a clean bum – use a hose.

And what about the poor people who have lost their houses and have nowhere to store toilet paper, let alone a toilet to sit on. We all need to get a grip. An estimated 1660 people die each day from cancer in the US alone, not to mention traffic accidents, workplace incidents and obesity.

Yes, it is a bit rough what is going on, but we all need to take a breath (not too near anyone) wash our hands and keep a bit of social distancing, particularly around people coughing and sneezing. And if a poor journo asks you for a spare roll, please be kind.

Keep calm and carry on, rant over…

Ed's note: Please don't send any emails about the pictured toilet roll being the wrong way around. But feel free to send toilet paper.

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

38 Trades

www.tlnews.com.au

Daylesford Self Storage -Brick -Central -Secure

11 Howe Street Daylesford Phone: 5348 1700

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

PLASTERER DAYLESFORD FIBROUS PLASTER WORKS (MACKLEY’S)

ALL ROUND CARPENTRY

• NEW HOMES • RENOVATIONS • CEILING ROSES • ORNAMENTAL CORNICE Daylesford

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

Pierre: 0425 783 871 SOLUTIONS | SOLUTIONS SOLUTIONS | SOLUTIONS

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

We stock The Local!

55 Vincent Street, Daylesford 5348 2061

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

0423 945 436

Trades 39

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

Servicing all Daylesford and Districts wastewateraus.com.au MOB: 0427 508 840

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

trenthamselfstorage@outlook.com

Hepburn House's fundraising calender is now for sale around the region. Find out where, read the story and see more images on page 12.